One of the questions that you will consider when building or renovating your kitchen is what to use as a benchtop. That kitchen benchtop is not merely there to be looked at, but is your key factor in determining how useful and long-lasting your working environment can be in the long-term. The reason is that stone benchtops are a trend. They are very durable, aesthetic and value-giving in the long-term. And yet what are the good stone materials to be able to endure the test of time?
We shall examine the hardest stone benchtops Melbourne residents can have installed in their kitchen, and their special benefits.
Granite Benchtops
Granite has been a popular choice in the kitchen because of its durability and natural beauty. It is also a 100% natural stone which is heat, scratch and stain resistant once sealed. Granite is available in a large number of choices of colours and designs and its flexibility in design is high.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Heat and scratch-resistant
- Unique natural patterns
Cons:
- Needs regular sealing
- Is heavy and needs heavy cabinetry.
Engineered Stone (Quartz)
Quartz or engineered stone is a composite of natural stone that has been crushed and resin. It provides the look of natural stone but it is more robust and reduced in maintenance.
Pros:
- Non-porous and easy to clean
- Patterns and colours are always the same.
- No sealing required
Cons:
- May be intolerant to excessive heat.
- Unnaturally appearance, unlike granite or marble.
Terrazzo Benchtops
In the contemporary kitchens, terrazzo is returning with a huge surge of revival and justifiably so. The terrazzo was created using a blend of natural stone pieces (marble, granite, quartz) embedded in concrete or resin and provides strength and the unique aesthetic.
Terrazzo Benchtops in Melbourne residents are not just selecting some fashionable benchtops, but extremely convenient. These bench tops are durable, low maintenance and suitable in both classic and modern space.
The reason why terrazzo is increasingly gaining prominence may seem indefinite but read the benefits of terrazzo benchtops to know more about its potential.
Pros:
- Long-lasting and strong
- Personalised in colour and pattern.
- Green choice of recycled materials.
Cons:
- Maybe more costly than the fundamentals.
- Professionally needed to install.
Marble Benchtops
Marble is very classic and beautiful and will bring the luxurious look to any kitchen. Although it is not the most durable one in this list, in case of proper care, it can take many years.
Pros:
- Beautiful, natural veining
- Best suited in traditional and upscale kitchens.
Cons:
- Light-coloured than granite and quartz.
- Etches and stains easily without using sealant.
Porcelain Benchtops
Porcelain is a newcomer to the bench top arena yet it is making some headway due to its durability and sleek look. It is very resistant to heat, UV and scratches.
Pros:
- Very low maintenance
- Slabs are available in thin and lightweight forms.
- UV-resistant - suitable in the outside kitchen.
Cons:
- Limited colour choices
- Can be costly
Concrete Benchtops
Concrete top is perfect on one who would prefer an industrial or a modern look. They are hand-made and very durable, providing an eye-catching design that is unrivaled by others in terms of durability.
Pros:
- Durable and heat-resistant
- Shape and finish are to be customised.
- Modern, unique appearance
Cons:
- Needs to be sealed in order to avoid stains.
- Is able to get hairline cracks with time.
Final Thoughts
When you are in need of the strongest and most stylish kitchen stone benchtops in Melbourne has to propose, you have to take into account your lifestyle, style, and budget. Granite and engineered stone are perfect in durability and low maintenance, whereas Terrazzo products suit people who want their specific unique and modern appearance and wonderful strength.
Regardless of the decision that you make, quality stone benchtops are something that will upgrade your kitchen, both in looks and functionality, in the long term.
