What is the best material for kitchen countertops?
When we are considering a reform of our kitchen, one of the main elements that we consider is the kitchen countertop board. We find many possibilities in the market, both in terms of materials and designs, so here we bring you a summary of the best materials for kitchen countertops.
Wood
Wooden kitchen countertops are usually a good option to add a rustic touch to the space, as well as being the most sustainable and ecological option on the market. Normally, woods such as oak, walnut or beech are used, and a previous treatment must be carried out to protect it from the aggressions that may occur in the kitchen. It is a visually attractive material, but it requires special care to be able to keep it like the first day.
Chipboard/Laminate
Laminate kitchen countertops are usually made with a chipboard or MDF base and come in an infinite number of designs: wood, plain, stone, metallic, fantasy...
Its quality/price ratio is one of the most competitive among all the other material options, although it does not resist heat or humidity as well as other countertops made of other materials. That is why Egger has developed a water-repellent laminate worktop that resists humidity. Its uniform surface and edge coating also prevents water or moisture from entering the board, making it highly resistant to moisture.
Marble
The marble kitchen countertop is one of the most expensive that we can find in the market, but even so, it is highly requested due to its elegant characteristics. They give the kitchen a point of sophistication and luxury that few materials can compare to.
The problem with this type of material is that it is a porous material, so grease or other substances can penetrate it. In addition, it is sensitive to abrasive products, so it requires polishing from time to time in order to maintain its initial shine.
Porcelain
Porcelain countertops are an ultra-resistant and ideal material for the kitchen, as they withstand heat, humidity, stains, blows, stains, etc. It is not a porous material, so its cleaning is relatively simple and without any special maintenance. The only drawbacks of this type of kitchen countertops are their price, above the average price of other countertops, and the fact that there are no sinks made of the same material and that it is a more fragile material and not recommended if you want to install a sink.
Granite
It is the classic of kitchen countertop boards. Durable, heat and scratch resistant, and if properly cared for it can last for many years. It is a somewhat porous material, so it can get stained, which is why some manufacturers recommend applying water-repellent and antibacterial treatments, which will give it the ability to resist these stains. It is also a heavy material, so the furniture that supports it must have a certain point of resistance and quality.
Solid Surface
Last but not least, the novelty of the Solid Surface, from brands like Franke. Solid Surface is a state-of-the-art material, homogeneous and non-porous, consisting of a mixture of natural minerals and acrylic resins. It has numerous physical properties such as its durability and its resistance to impacts, heat and UV rays. It is a non-porous material, compact throughout its thickness, and is installed with imperceptible joints that make the surface hygienic and antibacterial. All this together with its ease of repair and washing.