Kitchen Work Surfaces

By Robert Musgrave | Submitted On July 09, 2007

Never has there been a greater choice of work surface materials used in the kitchen. Each of which have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Laminate work surfaces have been the industry standard over the last forty years. The base material is usually a 30 mm or 40 mm high density particle board with a melamine laminate covering. This covering extends over the back and front edges leaving only middle underneath strip of exposed chipboard. There are a wide range of colors and patterns available even granite and wood imitations.

This material is inexpensive, very easy to work with, requiring the minimum of tools to complete a single board installation. Areas around any cutout ( for hob, sink etc ) must be well sealed to prevent ingress of water which is fatal to this type of material.

Modern wood surfaces are composed of 'splinters' of natural wood essentially glued together to form a complete board. A perfect choice if you like the look of natural wood and it blends with your kitchen.

This material tends to be fairly expensive but some major outlets have ranges at very reasonable prices. The normal maintenance for the preservation of wood have to be followed otherwise the surface will degrade after a few years. Sealer must be use around all cutouts.

Granite and Marble

Marble can be used in kitchens but due to its limestone composition it is susceptible to attack by acids (even vinegar), household cleaners and staining from oily compounds. Granite is a better choice for kitchen work surfaces composed of quartz and feldspar is highly resistant to kitchen compounds. The depth of color and lustre of these natural stones when polished has no comparison.

Granite requires the minimum of care usually just a wash down with warm soapy water. Hot pans can be transferred directly from the hob to work surface without any damage whatsoever. Given even reasonable care, these surfaces will last a lifetime

If you don't like the idea of a concrete slab as a work surface, think again, concrete work tops can be stunning. Concrete work surfaces can be supplied in a variety of attractive pastel shades. Smooth to the touch and sealed these counter tops offer a real alternative for the modern home. Can be easily molded in curves to allow creative shapes far removed from the classic rectangle.

For the adventurous home, d.i.y projects are a distinct possibility, there is masses of information available from the internet along with specialist contractors that will construct and ship to requirements.

Silestone manufacture products which are quartz based, nonporous, durable and are available in a wide variety of colors which is perhaps the biggest advantage over natural stone. Natural products have imperfections which can be regarded as flaws or part of the charm depending on your point of view.

Silestone is nonporous, resistant to household chemicals and products such as tea, coffee and is therefore very as easy to maintain similar to granite in this aspect.

Manufactured by Dupont and has long been regarded as the 'Rolls Royce" of work surfaces. Being probably the most expensive option surprisingly it does require some care. It can be damaged by hot objects and a cutting board must be used. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns and can be joined in an almost invisible way.

Stainless Steel

Previously considered only in the domain of commercial enterprises stainless steel is becoming more popular in the domestic market. It is ideal for an ultra modern minimalist style kitchen and has all the attributes of stainless steel utilities commonly found around the home.

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