Many believe the kitchen is the “heart and soul” of a home. It is because we all spend the majority of our time daily in the kitchen. So, choosing a kitchen bench top is one of the most important decisions you will make before the construction or renovation of your kitchen. With so many different stone bench tops available today, it might be tough for you to choose the perfect bench top for your kitchen.
That’s why we are here to help you choose the right bench top material, and we will discuss and narrow down the options between natural and engineered stones. These are the two most common materials on the market for kitchen bench tops or countertops.
Let’s distinguish between these popular materials and explore their advantages. We are happy to help you choose the best material for your future kitchen bench top. If you feel overwhelmed, please continue reading this blog!
Natural Stone
If you want to add a touch of luxury to your kitchen, a bench top made of natural stone is an excellent choice. Natural stone bench tops look elegant, luxurious, classic, and easy to clean.
Types of Natural Stone Bench Top
Granite Bench Top
Just like laminate or butcher block bench tops; granite natural stone bench tops will also increase the value of your home. Historically, granite natural stone material has been the countertop material of choice because of its long lasting capabilities. Hot items, such as pots and baking trays, can be placed on granite without the risk of cracking the slab. Granite is also one of the hardest, most durable and scratch resistant natural stone options. In terms of how it looks, each granite slab has its own unique composition, with grains in different colours that often range from medium to dark.
Marble Bench Top
Marble is another high quality natural stone with different grain sizes, veining and colours. Bench tops made of natural marble stone add a bold and beautiful feature to a home. Since marble is a natural stone, it stays cool in temperature and doesn’t conduct heat, which is a huge plus in a kitchen. And another unique feature of marble stone is that it’s impossible to find two slabs of marble precisely alike.
In terms of cost, natural granite stones are much less expensive than marble stones, yet both stones require regular care to maintain their beauty and performance.
Because both stones are porous, if you spill wine, oil, or juice on the stone surface, the stone will absorb it unless it is well sealed. Since they are particularly vulnerable to acidic foods and liquid stains, you must clean the stone immediately after a spill. So, both stones will eventually require resealing over time.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is considered an ultra durable material for its ability to resist scratches, stains, chips and heat. Due to its weather resistance and versatility, engineered stone is a popular choice for any home space application, including kitchen bench tops, splashbacks, fireplaces, bathroom counters, etc. But keep in mind that engineered stone products are more expensive than other stone materials.
An Engineered stone bench top comes in a wide range of colours and has uniform crystal displays where the colours are spread evenly. Also, these materials are suitable for use in designated areas for food preparation because the bacteria, viruses, and mould can’t grow on engineered stone bench tops.
Types of Engineered Stone Bench Top
Quantum Quartz Bench Top
What is quantum quartz? The quantum quartz stone comprises more than 93% of natural quartz, one of nature’s hardest minerals. The remaining percentage consists of resins and bonding agents. As a result, quantum quartz is non porous and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, making it an excellent material for kitchen bench tops. Quantum quartz is aesthetically pleasing and low maintenance. Therefore, it is suitable for kitchen, bathroom, and commercial bench top surfaces.
Dekton Bench Top
If you’re looking for a bench top material resistant to heat, stains, and major scratching, Dekton may be the best option. Engineered stone like Dekton is considered one of the most durable and low maintenance countertop materials. A Dekton bench top is also non porous and won’t break down when exposed to UV light. That’s why it is perfect for an outdoor kitchen bench top. Even chemicals and acids are no match against Dekton stone.
Other Well Known Types of Engineered Stones
- Silestone
- Caesarstone
- Essastone
- Smartstone
Do you want to give your kitchen bench top a complete makeover? Or are you currently building a new house and having trouble choosing the right bench top for your kitchen?
If you’re looking for services that can supply and install all those natural and engineered stones mentioned above, please message the professionals at Busselton Home Maintenance Services.
We professionally install bench tops and perform countertop repairs in homes, apartments, businesses, and other residential properties in Busselton, WA. Our bench top specialists at Busselton Home Maintenance Service can handle minor and extensive countertop repairs. Message us today to learn more about our variety of natural and engineered stones and how they may be applied to your home.
I hope that the information in this blog is helpful to you. Feel free to comment on our contact page if you have any questions or inquiries.
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