The kitchen, it’s arguably the most integral room in the house, the heart of the home where we spend most of our time. So, when it comes to choosing a new kitchen worktop, we understand just how big a decision this is. whether you’re an entertainer, have a large family and all the hustle and bustle that comes along with it, or you tend to eat out so your kitchen doesn’t quite get the hammering others may do, you want to make sure the material you choose will work for you and your lifestyle and stand the test of time in your home. Not only this, but you also want it to compliment the styling of your home, to be your dream kitchen in terms of functionality and form!
With so many types of kitchen worktops on the market how do you know which to choose? Knowing how important the decision is, we’ve listed below the most popular materials for kitchen countertops on the market from natural stones to man-made to give you some ideas and help you select the perfect kitchen countertop for you.
Slate – great for durability and beauty
Cumbrian slate is expertly suited to being used for kitchen worktops, islands, backsplashes and pantries. Honister slate in the Lake District is exceptionally durable and hardwearing and lends itself perfectly for use in preparing, cooking and food presentation areas. A natural material used for hundreds of years; a slate kitchen countertop will look at home in a traditional setting equally as well as it will in a contemporary aesthetic. Lake District slate is also a great eco choice being reusable and recyclable and as the slate worktops are made in the UK they haven’t had to be transported from overseas. With beautiful unique markings throughout, slate is the ideal choice for an eye-catching island centre piece and being soft to the touch is extremely tactile. Slate is naturally antibacterial and due to it being non-porous it’s wont stain. Slate is also heat resistant to extremely high temperatures and cleaning slate worktops is effortless with soapy water and a clean cloth making slate a wonderful choice for your dream kitchen.
Pro’s
- Durable
- Traditional and contemporary aesthetic
- Reusable and recyclable
- Made in the UK
- Unique characteristics
- Soft touch
- Naturally antibacterial
- Stain resistant
- Heat resistant
- Easy clean and low maintenance
Stainless Steel Worktops – great for a seamless finish
Stainless steel worktops in kitchens are becoming more sort after with the increased popularity of the industrial look, however it is still more common to find them in commercial kitchens as they do have the tendency to look slightly cold and clinical particularly when used over a larger space. Stainless steel is the go-to option for commercial kitchens due to its durability, high resistance to heat and acid and its antibacterial properties. It’s also waterproof so very easy to clean and can be made to any shape and size so you can achieve a seamless look. All this makes for a great kitchen work surface for a busy home however stainless steel does tend to be nosy and is prone to scratching and denting although as stainless steel is naturally antibacterial scratching won’t affect this. It is possibly not the best choice if you’re not keen on the ‘lived in look’ however if you do allow the surface to naturally age it can result in a fabulous unique worktop.
Pro’s
- Durable
- Naturally antibacterial
- Heat resistant
- Avid resistant
- Easy clean
- Can be made any size and shape for seamless look
- Will natural age giving unique finish
Con’s
- Can look slightly cold and clinical
- Nosy
- Prone to scratching and denting
- Will naturally age so won’t retail a pristine finish
Quartz – great for low maintenance
Quartz is a man-made material created by fortifying 93% to 95% natural quartz with resin. The material can be ‘grained’ so that it looks like marble and other natural stones or have a matt or shine finish and is available in a large array of colour options so finding a version you like and that fits with your kitchen design shouldn’t be a problem. Quartz worktops are extremely hardwearing, not only are they scratch resistant but being non-porous means liquid cannot seep into the material resulting in a stain and acid resistant surface. They are also antibacterial and heat resistant to 160 degrees C making quartz an ideal surface for food preparation. Being man-made but with the look of natural stone quartz can be 5x stronger than granite, is less prone to chipping and is easy to maintain by simply wiping with a cloth and warm soapy water. With all these fantastic properties quartz worktops are a more expensive option for your kitchen but will look good for many years with very little maintenance. Some popular quartz brands are Caesaratone, Silestone, LG Viatera, DuPont Zodiaq and Cambria Quartz.
Pro’s
- Can be ‘grained’ to look like natural stone
- Colour and finish options available
- Durable
- Scratch resistant
- Stain resistant
- Acid resistant
- Heat resistant
- Naturally antibacterial
- Up to 5x stronger than granite and less prone to chipping
- Easier clean and low maintenance
Con’s
- More expensive option
Hardwood – Great for a rustic, country aesthetic
Ideal for a rustic country kitchen vibe, hardwood kitchen work surfaces look great and are naturally antibacterial. Traditional timbers used for countertops and kitchen islands are beech, oak and maple however bamboo and other such woods are beginning to become more popular. Looking for FSC (forest stewardship council) wood will ensure it’s from a sustainable source. Wooden kitchen worktops can be less expensive than stone and cleaning is simply with just warm soapy water and a soft cloth. However, water shouldn’t be left in contact for too long and the colour of your worktop could fade over time if in direct sunlight. The surface is also not heat resistant and can scratch and stain easily. Sanding can remove any scratches or marks and oiling twice a year will enrich the wood, slightly darkening the overall look and helping to create a unique character and rich patina.
Pro’s
- Naturally Antibacterial
- Sustainable source if FSC certified
- Can be less expensive than stone
- Easy clean
Con’s
- Prolonged contact with water can cause damage
- Direct sunlight can cause fading
- Not heat resistant
- Can scratch and stain easily
- Twice yearly oiling required
Corian Composite Worktops – great for colour options
Composite countertops are produced by resin being applied to a substrate material. The resulting durable glossy worktop can be moulded so a sink and / or splashback can be seamlessly incorporated into the countertop. The surface is antibacterial due to the non-porous properties and waterproof however if water does manage to get beneath the resin exterior the damage could be irreparable. The surface also isn’t scratch resistant, but scratches can be polished out. There is a wide variety of colour options and although not fully stain resistant, composite worktops do have a level of resistance to staining and are heat resistant to 180 degrees C. Maintenance is simple, in terms of cleaning all that is required is mild detergent and a soft cloth. Historically these worktops have been one of the more expensive options, but prices are beginning to become more affordable.
Pro’s
- Can be moulded to incorporate sinks seamlessly with worktop
- Antibacterial
- Water resistant
- Wide variety of colour options
- Heat resistant
- Easy clean
Con’s
- Irreparable if water gets beneath resin
- Can scratch
- Not fully stain resistant
Marble – great for bakers
If you or anyone in the home is a keen baker, then a marble kitchen worktop might be the perfect choice. Marble doesn’t conduct heat well which results in the surface temperature always being cool to the touch. This naturally low temperature makes a wonderful countertop surface when working with temperature sensitive food such as pastry. Not only is the surface cool to the touch but is heat resistant and waterproof. Marble work surfaces and kitchen islands also add a sense of luxury to any kitchen however as marble is porous staining can occur without professional sealing. Not only this, but marble can also scratch therefore if there is a lot of hustle and bustle in your kitchen then this might not be the best choice for you. The surface will also require re-sealing periodically and even with sealing acids such as lemon juice and vinegar will etch the marble which is visible as a dull whitish mark. Due to this, the surface needs to be cleaned with a PH neutral soap solution and a soft cloth.
Pro’s
- Surface temperature cool to touch – perfect for bakers
- Heat resistant
- Water resistant
Con’s
- Prone to staining without professional sealing
- Can scratch
- Periodic re-sealing required
- Etching can occur with acids
- Needs to be cleaned with a PH neutral soap solution
Concrete – great for a custom colour and shape
Like stainless steel worktops, concrete worksurfaces are excellent for achieving that industrial aesthetic. A man-made material by combining aggregate and cement, concrete can be polished to give a smooth finish or can be left with more of a raw uneven texture. The surface is scratch and heat resistant but as it is porous it will mark. This can result in a wonderful patina as the surface ages over the years however if you are looking for a pristine look it is possibly not the right material for you (though sealing treatments do help with this). Concrete is a great option if you are after that custom look as pigments can be added to colour the material and as concrete can be cast on site custom shapes are possible also but with this comes a slightly higher cost.
Pro’s
- Polished of raw finishes available
- Scratch resistant
- Heat resistant
- Over time will develop a lovely patina
- Wide variety of colour options
- Can be cast on site to any shape
Con’s
- Porous – will mark easily
Ceramic – great as a cost-effective alternative to natural stones
Ceramic is one of the oldest man-made materials which created from all-natural material. It’s more cost effective than marble and there is a wide range of colours, designs and textures available however if you were to opt for a custom-designed tile this can increase the cost significantly. Ceramic worktops are extremely durable and heat resistant, they’re also antibacterial and waterproof however spills do need to be cleaned up quickly to prevent staining. They are easy to maintain cleaning with warm water and a cloth but as they are installed as tiles particular attention does need to be paid to the grout lines to prevent bacteria. Ceramic worktops can scratch, chip and crack easily so they might not be the best choice for busy kitchens.
Pro’s
- More cost effective than marble
- Wide range of colours, designs and textures
- Durable
- Heat resistant
- Water resistant
- Antibacterial
- Easy clean
Con’s
- Custom design tiles can be more expensive
- Can stain
- Can scratch, chip and crack easily
- Grout lines can harbour bacteria
Granite – great for colour options
With a vast array of colours, patterns and textures available, Granite kitchen worktops are a great option when trying to find that perfect look for your dream kitchen but can be one of the most expensive options. They are also one of the lowest maintenance choices with this natural stone being antibacterial, scratch resistant, heat resistant to 200 degrees C. Granite is even stain resistant if sealed properly with resealing required approximately every 10 years. To clean all that’s needed is warm water, mild soap and a microfibre cloth, you do need to avoid abrasive cleaners which could damage the granite. You also need to avoid cutting directly on the granite as this can mark the surface and care needs to be taken when installing the countertop, island or splash back as if not done correctly the granite can crack or be chipped.
Pro’s
- Wide range of colours, patterns and textures available
- Antibacterial
- Scratch resistant
- Heat resistant
- Stain resistant
- Easy clean
Con’s
- Expensive
- Resealing required every 10 years
- Avoid abrasive cleaners
- Avoid cutting directly on surface
Basalt – great for a warmer feel
Basalt kitchen countertops are an alternative option to granite. They are made from silicate, the same as granite, but feel softer and are warm to the touch, which is a nice characteristic for a home, unless you are a keen baker who needs a cool surface temperature for pastry etc. Despite the softer feel the surface of a basalt countertop is hard and will wear well. Unlike granite the colour options for basalt are limited to darker shades of mainly blue, greys and blacks.
Pro’s
- Soft and warm to the touch
- Durable
Con’s
- Warm to the touch – not ideal for bakers
- Limited colour options
Soap Stone – great for a softer feel
A natural non-porous stone, soap stone does not stain easily, it is also heat resistant and antibacterial which are great qualities for a kitchen worktop. As the name would suggest, soap stone contains a high percentage of talc which does result in a softer, smooth feel and the surface being more prone to being scratched or dented so care does need to be taken. Colour is limited to shades of greys with blue or green undertones, but you can inject uniqueness into your kitchen though the veining in the soap stone similar to what you find in marble. It is worth noting that the surface of soap stone oxidises over time potentially resulting in a slight darkening of the colour. This patina which gradually develops will add further to the unique look of the worktop. Maintenance is higher than with other kitchen worktop options as it’s recommended that mineral oil is applied once per month for the first year.
Pro’s
- Doesn’t stain easily
- Heat resistant
- Antibacterial
- Soft touch
- Over time a unique patina will develop
Con’s
- Prone to scratching and denting
- Limited colour options
- Oxidises over time slightly darkening the colour
- Mineral oil to be applied once per month for first year
Reasons to Choose a Slate Worktop
When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, selecting the perfect worktop is crucial. Among the many options available, slate countertops stand out for their exceptional qualities and unique beauty. Here are compelling reasons why slate should be your top choice for a kitchen worktop:
1. Durability and Longevity
Slate is renowned for its durability and longevity. This natural stone has been used for centuries in various applications, proving its ability to withstand the test of time. A slate worksurface will handle the daily wear and tear of a bustling kitchen, maintaining its integrity and appearance for years.
2. Unique Aesthetic Appeal
Each piece of slate is unique, featuring beautiful, natural markings that add character and elegance to your kitchen. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary look, slate seamlessly fits into any design scheme, making it a versatile choice for various styles.
3. Eco-Friendly Option
Choosing a slate countertop is an environmentally friendly decision. Slate is a natural material that is reusable and recyclable. Additionally, slate sourced from the UK, such as Honister Slate from the Lake District, reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.
4. Antibacterial and Stain Resistant
Slate’s non-porous surface makes it naturally antibacterial, ensuring a hygienic environment for food preparation. Its resistance to stains means that spills and splashes won’t leave lasting marks, keeping your kitchen looking pristine with minimal effort.
5. Heat Resistance
Slate is highly heat resistant, capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures. You can place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without worrying about damage, making it a practical choice for a busy kitchen.
6. Easy Maintenance
Maintaining a slate worksurface is effortless. Simply clean it with soapy water and a soft cloth to keep it looking its best. The low maintenance requirements make slate an attractive option for those who want a beautiful kitchen without the hassle of extensive upkeep.
7. Soft Touch and Tactile Quality
One of the appealing qualities of slate is its smooth, soft touch. This tactile feature adds to the overall sensory experience of your kitchen, making it not only a visual delight but also a pleasure to use.
8. Timeless Elegance
Slate’s timeless elegance ensures that it remains a stylish choice regardless of changing trends. Its natural beauty and unique characteristics make it a standout feature in any kitchen, adding value and aesthetic appeal to your home.
9. Made in the UK
By choosing natural slate products from Honister Slate, you support local craftsmanship and reduce the environmental impact associated with importing materials from overseas. The quality and heritage of Lake District slate ensure you’re getting a product that is both beautiful and sustainable.
In summary, slate countertops offer a perfect blend of durability, beauty, and practicality. With its eco-friendly attributes, easy maintenance, and timeless appeal, slate is an exceptional choice for any kitchen. Contact us today to discuss how slate can transform your kitchen into a stunning and functional space.
*It’s important to always discuss the specific characteristics and functionality of a material with the manufacturer before purchase.
We'd love to speak to you about your dream kitchen design, feel free to contact us to discuss further.