The kitchen is the most important room in the house. It is the room where everything happens, and it is often a space for gathering and precious family time together. This means that it should take priority when it comes to decorating. Nothing brings the look of the kitchen together like having the right benchtop. A benchtop can cost between $300 and $2,000 per square metre, so you want to make sure that you make the right choice.
Factors that Affect the Right Benchtop Choice
Today, you have many choices in benchtop materials and looks. Choosing a benchtop must be done under careful consideration because of factors like durability, the cooking that you do, and how long it will last. Style is usually the first factor that people think about when choosing a benchtop. Still, you also have to consider the type of use that it will receive.
For instance, if you do a lot of chopping, pounding, or baking, you will need a surface that can hold up. On the other hand, if takeout and packaged meals are your choices, style might be more critical. Another consideration is whether the benchtop is prone to stains or blemishes. Of course, the budget will be a factor, too.
Five types of Benchtops to Consider
The choices in colour and the look of the surface are almost endless. You can find something to suit your style, whether your home is traditional, modern, elegant, or industrial. Here are five of the most popular benchtop ideas.
1.Polished Concrete
Concrete is an excellent choice for many reasons. It is edgy and modern, scratch-resistant, heat-resistant, and durable. The concrete can be formed into any shape, and there are colourants available for a custom look. One thing to consider is that they are heavy, and your home must be able to hold the weight. They cost around $1,000 per square metre.
2. Timber
Timber gives you a classic look and comes in a range of choices. You can choose a wood that matches your cabinets and trim, and you can choose from hard or softwoods. Timber benchtops cost between $500 to $1500 per square metre. It can be used to create a thoroughly modern zen look, or you can take advantage of its natural grains for a rustic or more natural look. The most crucial factor is that your installer uses a durable sealant to preserve it for a long time.
3. Laminated
Laminate benchtops are a popular budget option for straight benches. They are made from a manufactured wood product covered with laminate, from which there are hundreds of custom looks. They are often made to mimic other materials like stone, marble, or wood. You can opt for a modern look or play with a theme, such as in a retro-themed kitchen. You can choose from a matching colour or something that contrasts your kitchen scheme’s rest for a bold and dramatic look.
4. Marble
Marble is an elegant option for a classic old-world look, but it can also be clean and modern. Marble is a natural material that resists heat and scratches. It requires a specialist who can cut the marble slabs for a perfect fit. White marble with black accents throughout the space is a striking combination that is popular right now. Marble goes well with mixed metal accents and modern lighting choices.
As with any stone, you have to be careful with acids, such as lemon juice or vinegar, because it can damage the surface. Marble can cost between $2,000 and $4,000 per square metre, depending on the type of marble you choose. You can also get other types of stone, such as granite, limestone, slate, or travertine.
5. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel benchtops are what you usually associate with a commercial kitchen. Still, now, many homeowners are opting for this choice in their home kitchens. It is low-maintenance and gives the workspace a clean, professional feel. It also pairs well with stainless steel appliances and accents but may show scratches, depending on the finish you choose. Brushed stainless is a good option if you are concerned about fingerprints or scratches. A stainless steel benchtop will cost around $1,000 per square metre. Some are also opting for brush aluminium or copper instead of stainless steel.
Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and finding the perfect benchtop is one of the most important decisions you will make for the space. The kitchen doubles as an entertaining space, which makes it even more critical. Regardless of the type of benchtop you choose, it’s vital to hire the right tradesperson for the job. Making the right choice and hiring an installer who can do the job right is the best way to ensure that you have a benchtop that transforms the kitchen into a space that you will enjoy for years to come.
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