Are you planning on upgrading your kitchen worktop? It’s quite a challenge choosing what suits well in your kitchen and what works best for your needs because there are lots of options to choose from. Here are our top picks when it comes to kitchen worktops. We’ll provide all the information you need along with pros and cons so you can make an informed decision when you start remodelling your kitchen.

1. Granite Counters

Granite is the material of choice when it comes to kitchen worktops. This material defines sophistication and elegance in the kitchen. It’s durable, beautiful, and comes in a number of colors.

Pros: Granite is a perfect insulation as it holds up to heat. Comes in a range of more than 2,000 colors and patterns, Very durable and can last a lifetime, Virtually maintenance-free, Its hardness rating comes in second after diamonds, Valued by majority of home buyers

Cons: Can be expensive, but it’s starting to become more affordable, Some granite stones absorb stains if not properly stained, Can crack if stressed or not properly installed.

Granite Kitchen Worktops

 2.       Engineered Stone

Engineered stone is made up of mostly quartz (more than 90%). It’s available in a wide range of colors compared to granite. It has a nonporous surface therefore it’s stain-free and scratch-free. Maintenance is manageable without the need for constant sealing required with most natural stones. There are a variety of brands to choose from – LG Viatera®, Silestone®, Cambria Quartz, and DuPont Zodiac®.

Pros: Easy to maintain, Resistant to stain and scratches from kitchen utensils, Mold-free and acid-free

Cons: Expensive

3.       Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are durable and very easy to clean and they are good choices for kitchen worktops because they are less-costly compared to granite and engineered surfaces. They are installed per section that’s why most practical homeowners choose them.

Pros: Comes in a variety of patterns, texture, and designs, Mix and match tiles, Cost-friendly and practical, Easy to clean and maintain, Heat proof and scratch resistant

Cons: Surfaces can be uneven when not installed properly, Tiles can easily chip and crack, Grout spaces can accumulate dirt and stains

4.       Laminates

A practical kitchen worktop can utilize the versatility of laminates. These counters are typically under the trademarks Nevamar, Formica, and Wilsonart. Laminates are being used as kitchen worktops in homes for many years because they are inexpensive and easy to install and maintain. While there are so many choices today, this classic remains the product of choice among budget-conscious homeowners.

Pros: Laminates come in tons of colors and designs, Easy to clean and maintain, Durable, Inexpensive

Cons: Scratches are impossible to repair, Cracks under pressure, High-end laminates can be pricey

5.       Stainless Steel Counters

For contemporary and modern kitchens, stainless steel kitchen worktops are the perfect choice. They’re heat-resistant and virtually damage-free. Stainless steel worktops are typically designed and constructed to fit your kitchen specifications.

Pros: There are no seams that collect dirt and debris Easy to clean High resistance to heat

Cons: Prone to dents Custom-designs can be expensive it’s not scratch-free

6.       Marble

Marble has a luxurious feel and they are found in most high-end kitchens. A marble kitchen worktops comes at an extremely high price tag. One of the best qualities of marble countertops is the variety of colors and veining. Other materials like laminates try to imitate the beauty of marble but there’s nothing compared to the original.  Today, a marble kitchen worktop is not anymore limited to the affluent because of cultured marble countertops that are more within the reach of the practical homeowner.

Pros: Fancy details and design, Waterproof and heatproof Cuts to perfection

Cons: Expensive, The porous surface stains easily unless professionally sealed, Non scratch-free, Constant resealing may be required to retain its inherent qualities

7.       Wood

The use of a wood kitchen countertop is not new. Most homeowners like the beautiful and warm look and texture of wood. It’s a perfect choice for country-style kitchens. Wood comes in a variety of color and finishes. Maple, oak, and mahogany are the popular choices for wood kitchen worktops.

Pros: Easy to install, Easy to clean, depending on the finish, Can be easily sanded and resealed

Cons: Prone to staining and water damage. Needs constant oiling and resealing.