What are the options for kitchen worktop materials?

From food preparation to casual mingling, kitchen worktop is one of the most frequently used areas in the home. Hence, it is crucial to select a tough and practical material that fits your needs. Worktop materials can be briefly categorized as stone materials and other materials.

Stone materials

1. Solid surface

Solid surface comes in a wide range of colors. There are no joints in this material which prevents dirt and water from seeping in and makes it rather easy to clean. Any color stains or scratches can be removed by sanding. There are a lot of brands to choose from, so it takes time to identify the best bargain. Solid surface imported from foreign countries is often more durable, heat-resistant and non-porous.

2. Quartz

Quartz is extremely durable and heat-resistant. It does not burn or change its shape under high temperature. It is also impervious to most stains and only uses water to clean. Users can even scratch away light stains on the surface with a small blade. Due to its hardness, however, quartz cannot be applied with curved cabinets which could pose limits to your design.

3. Natural stones

Each slab of stone has its unique color and veining, which means it takes time and patience to select the most suitable one. Natural stones can be polished into different shapes but such customization requires a high level of craftsmanship. Regular waxing is also necessary to prevent dirt from seeping into the joints and tiny holes of the stone. Among all natural stones, granite and marble are the hottest choices. Granite is more scratch-resistant and heat-resistant while marble is more elegant.

Other materials 

1. Stainless steel

Stainless steel is versatile in style and durable which can even last decades under careful maintenance. Because of higher density, it is non-porous and easy to clean. However, scratches, fingerprints and water stains would appear obviously on stainless steel unless the worktop has a matt finish. There are different grades of stainless steel - some are with a higher grade of not showing fingerprints or burn marks, especially those imported from Japan.

2. Nanotech matt material

FENIX NTM® employs nanotechnology to inhibit the growth of bacteria and microorganism, making it safe for direct contact with food. It is also highly scratch-resistant, heat-resistant and easy to clean. Users can even perform thermal repair, by covering a wet tissue with iron, to remove micro-scratches.