Choosing countertops for your new home or renovation? There are many factors that can influence your decision, such as aesthetics, color range, durability, and mounting method.
Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best solution for you may not always fit the next person’s needs and lifestyle.
When looking for the ideal benchtop solution, it is important to consider the key features of available materials.
Caesarstone Australia, a reputable company, offers some of the hardest and most refined materials for benchtops on the market.
Not only do they add an elegant aesthetic to any space, but their superior durability ensures longevity without the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
To help you make an informed decision, here is a summary of the main characteristics of their materials:
Porcelain
Printed and sealed, porcelain countertops are rapidly becoming a popular countertop choice.
These benchtops are available in a variety of colors and finishes including matte, gloss, satin and textured finishes.
Pros: These surfaces are solid, heat resistant, non-porous, easy to clean and resistant to most chemicals.
They are commonly available in large slabs, as are other major tabletop materials.
Cons: There are a few problems when it comes to porcelain. Not all masons work with porcelain, so it’s generally one of the more overpriced options when it comes to installation.
Also, this material is expensive to purchase when compared to other common materials.
Natural Stone
There is nothing quite like natural stone, but be prepared to take great care to preserve its unique beauty. The stone requires sealing every year to maintain its looks.
Pros: Natural stones such as marble, granite, and quartz each have their own characteristics, such as color, composition, and veining.
Its astonishing beauty is almost impossible to replicate with unnatural materials, and patterned panels can be book-matched to create eye-catching features.
Cons: Natural stone is generally the most expensive option and easily discolors when exposed to foods such as citrus, tomatoes, oils, and certain chemicals.
Laminate
Laminate is one of the simplest and most affordable tabletop solutions on the market. It is available in a wide range of colors and finishes and can be cut to specific dimensions.
Pros: Laminate is one of the elemental and cheapest table solutions on the exchange.
It is available in a wide range of colors and textures and can be cut to specific dimensions.
Cons: You can choose from a variety of finishes that mimic wood and natural stone, but the look and finish can’t match the unique beauty of the original.
Laminates are also generally prone to scratching, scorching and burning, and lose their gloss or become dull over time.
Solid Timber
Using wood in your design adds beautiful warmth and texture. But a word of warning, wood and water are commonly not good friends.
This can be quite a problem in bathrooms and kitchens. A sealer or oil should be applied at least once a year along with light sand to maintain its luster and beauty.
Pros: Durable, unique and easy to install, wooden worktops are versatile & stylish and add a grounding element to your home.
Depending on the type of wood, it can be a more cost-effective option compared to other finishes.
Cons: It is prone to scratches and heat marks and must be resealed regularly to maintain surface quality.
Water, food, cosmetics and termites can also be a problem for wooden countertops if not properly protected.
Luciana joined our team as a mum blogger in 2020. A dedicated mum to a lively daughter and a dog, Luna, Luciana brings authenticity and passion to every post. Her expertise in parenting and lifestyle topics offers practical, relatable advice for real-life situations.