What to consider when choosing your benchtop

How functional the benchtop is an essential consideration when you are deciding on which one would be suitable for your kitchen. You should consider whether it resists heat and UV damage, stains or will be affected by abrasion, is impact resistant and how easy it is to clean and maintain.

When considering form, consider the following:

Does it suit your design?

Is this a benchtop for life, or will you update it periodically?

How does the natural and/or artificial light interact on your benchtop?

Do you like the appearance?

Popular Kitchen Benchtop Options

Sintered Surfaces — Porcelain

Made from complex raw materials similar to those used glass, porcelain and quartz surfaces, sintered surfaces take these production steps further with a high tech process which naturally takes thousands of years to occur and contain natural faults. Due to the high tech process which represents an accelerated version of metamorphic change there are many advantages to using Sintered Surfaces.

Resistant to High Temperatures – Does not burn of combust when it comes into contact with fire or extreme temperatures
Resistant to Ice and Freezing – No damage occurs from exposure to extremely low temperatures
100% Natural – Resin-free and does not release and harmful substance to the environment
Resistant to UV Rays – Colour will not fade over time to UV exposure making it perfect for outdoor and indoor use
Colour Stability – The manufacturing process allows full control over the pigmentation and decoration of the material
Scratch Resistant – being the most scratch resistant surface available on the market your surfaces will continue to look new for years to come
Waterproof – The extreme heat and pressures used to create the material make it non-porous
Hygienic – Due to being non-porous and scratch resistant bacteria can’t grow in these imperfections making it easy to clean a maintain
High Mechanical Resistance – Over 5 times the flexural structure of natural granite, sintered surfaces can be installed using thinner materials over greater spans with up to 300mm of unsupported overhang perfect for a kitchen breakfast bar or island.

Engineered stone

Manufactured to include resin and other additives into natural quartz or granite, engineered stone is highly variable in terms of quality but offers consistent and broad colour ranges.

This composite stone delivers a high performing bench top that is durable, resistant to heat, scratches and stains, and requires no ongoing maintenance.

Marble

Marble is a natural stone that can be made from either limestone or dolomite.

These types of rocks are prone to having veins which show off their classic and mineral deposits, making them unique in appearance alone.

However, marble is soft enough that it will scratch easily if not properly sealed regularly- with some food being able to stain the surface as well!

Both have different characteristics; both use minerals for coloration but only real marble uses vein patterns so you’ll know what kind right away when looking at samples.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone that has been used for centuries. It features coarse mineral grains of various, contrasting colors and textures.

Granite can have an almost timeless look to it while also being durable enough to resist stains or cracks from everyday wear-and-tear in the kitchen countertop space as well as other spaces throughout your home like bathrooms or living rooms where you might entertain guests on occasion!

Solid timber

Hardwood benchtops will provide you with warmth and durability.

There are many different shades of wood that can create an individualized look or a classic style for those who want the old world charm, but it’s always good to keep in mind what type of flooring best suits your needs before making any final decisions on which hardwood option is right for you!

Acrylic-Solid Surface

Acrylic, also known as Solid Surface, is a manufactured plastic-based material that can replicate the look of stone or marble benchtops.

Colours will be consistent, made-to-order, and versatile to all tastes. Some types will be prone to scratching, but it is a popular option for integrated sinks if you wish to avoid any visible joins or want a very hygienic option. It can also be shaped in different forms and is particularly great for creating an interesting look or curve.

Laminate

Laminate benchtops are manufactured with high heat that bonds plastic and paper layers and is very affordable.

It is available in a range of colours and finishes to suit any kitchen design, but not as durable as other options and easily heat damaged. However, the price point means that replacing laminate over time is less costly than other options.

FAQs

What is a kitchen benchtop?

A kitchen benchtop is a flat, horizontal surface in your kitchen where you can prepare food or store items. They often have cabinets or storage underneath, and some may have features built in such as cooktops, sinks or even smart technology.

How much do kitchen benchtops cost?

Benchtops can be difficult to price because materials alone are only one aspect. Installation, dimensions and inbuilts (like an inlaid sink) also impact upon cost.

However, as a guide expect higher prices for marble ($750-$3000 per sqm), granite ($650-$2000 per sqm), concrete ($1000-$1800 inclusive of labour), engineered stone, ($450-$4000 per sqm) acrylics ($900 – $1500 per sqm inclusive of labour), and timber ($500-$1200 per sqm).

What is an affordable kitchen benchtop option?

Laminate is the most affordable benchtop option, however, some engineered stones and timbers become cost-effective if overlaid on top of laminate that delivers a superior, value-for-money finish.

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Kitchen Benchtops in Melbourne