- Types of materials for worktops: pros and cons
- TOP-3 of the best materials for kitchen worktops
- Some useful recommendations
The worktop is one of the main attributes in the kitchen. In addition to the fact that it can cut food for cooking, it perfectly complements the interior of the kitchen. At purchase everyone asks a question: from what do table-tops for kitchen do? The range of materials is very wide, therefore in the market it is possible to find both stone, and wooden, and even concrete construction. The material depends on the performance and features of the table, so you need to choose, focusing on the pros and cons of each.
to content ↑Types of materials for countertops: pros and cons
Consider several popular types of kitchen tables.
Laminated chipboard
Constructions made of such material are produced by processing of chipboard with high-pressure plastic. Differs quite a reasonable price and a quick production( within 10 days).In the market you can find such a design of any color. In addition, it is very easy to assemble independently.
As for the disadvantages:
- It is unstable to natural and chemical dyes.
- The surface of the table may slightly bulge if the moisture is excessive.
- It is unstable to high temperatures, therefore it is strictly forbidden to put hot dishes on its surface.
Important! When purchasing the construction of the chipboard, please check with the seller about the level of formaldehyde. It must be at most E2( ideally E0).In addition, pay attention to the slice cut - its color should be blue or greenish. This will indicate that the cooker is sufficiently moisture resistant.
Wood-fiber board( MDF)
It is covered with high-strength laminate, and then a special protective layer is applied. Such plates are distinguished by the complete absence of harmful substances and resins. When used, paraffin and lingine are used.
The MDF board is resistant to the appearance of fungi and mold. Despite this, the design is unstable to mechanical shocks and high temperatures. Depending on the quality of the material, the table can be painted in places of contamination.
Important! When buying, ask the seller what is the thickness of the plate and to what class of water resistance it is attributed.
Liquid stone( acrylic)
Another option, from which make kitchen countertops. It is made from very fine mineral crumbs and acrylic resins.
Features:
- The design can have a wide variety of shapes, without joints and seams. Such a table is perfect for an original kitchen design.
- The material is environmentally friendly, with no pores, which means that the development of pathogenic bacteria is excluded.
- This design does not lose its color gamut and does not burn out during the whole operation.
The disadvantages of this countertop is that it:
- is easily exposed to acid detergents;
- is quite complicated to install;
- has very low heat resistance.
Important! The components of such an installation are very expensive, like the table top itself, so buying it or not is a personal choice for each consumer. When buying, it is recommended to ask about the warranty card on the countertop.
Natural stone
What does the kitchen countertops do from time immemorial? Of course, from natural stone.
Features:
- Models of this material are resistant to abrasive detergents and the appearance of pathogenic bacteria.
- Differ high level of resistance to high temperature and excessive moisture.
- This design can serve for dozens of years, without losing its aesthetic appearance.
As for the minuses, the weight is very heavy and can not be repaired if damaged. The color scale for such structures is limited.
Important! When purchasing a plant made of natural stone, do not forget to ask about the material deposit and the quality certificate. Some breeds are radioactive.
Wood
In shops you can find designs from oak, walnut and ash. The worktops made of this material give a very pleasant tactile sensation and a beautiful appearance. In addition, the installation can be periodically grinded and varnished in order to protect from moisture and preserve the natural beauty. If the surface is not treated with varnish, then soon it will deteriorate from high humidity. Such designs require timely and thorough care.
Important! When purchasing a kitchen unit from such material, ask the seller about the wood species, specify which cleaning agents are best used.
After familiarizing yourself with several popular types of kitchen designs, you will simplify the task of choosing the best kitchen countertop.
to the contents ↑TOP-3 of the best materials for kitchen countertops
When you come to a furniture store, sometimes it is very difficult to find an installation that would fit all parameters, especially when it comes to kitchen furniture. It is in this room that a person spends most of his free time.
With such a difficult task, you can help the rating of kitchen countertops. Consider the three most popular options for consumer reviews.
Ceramic tiles
Despite the popularity, this type of countertops is not so common. When buying tiles, it is recommended to choose a glazed option, as this will facilitate the task of caring for it. Grout should be acquired dark, as light can be painted. In addition to color, do not forget about moisture resistance.
From the advantages of this tile can be identified:
- a wide choice of design and dimensions;
- resistance to high temperatures and excessive moisture.
- is the most important plus table top made of this material - an acceptable price.
But it's worth remembering that you need to treat the installation carefully, as it is not resistant to mechanical damage.
Artificial stone
Surface of countertops made of such material does not absorb paint, it is resistant to shocks and high temperature. Consumers argue that the artificial stone is stronger than natural, but it is much cheaper.
Important! If you decide to move, then you can transport such an installation only in an upright position and very carefully. If damaged, it will not be subject to recovery.
Stainless steel
Such installations are usually used by experienced chefs, but now they can be found in an ordinary apartment. They are long-term in use and very durable. Do not be afraid of hot dishes and excessive moisture.
Their disadvantage is that over time, steel becomes duller and scratches may appear, but with careful care, it is possible to preserve the presentable appearance of the countertop.
to the table of contents ↑Some useful recommendations from
Regardless of the material of the countertop you will buy, there are several important tips from specialists:
- The worktop must match the kitchen set. There is no point in buying a plant from expensive wood, if all the kitchen furniture is made from chipboard. Outwardly it will look very ugly.
- Kitchen units made of natural stone will perfectly fit into a spacious, bright kitchen.
- Regardless of what design you bought, always be present when installing it to be aware of all the small details.
- Surfaces from natural stones are very hard, dense, so you should put dishes very carefully on them.
- When buying a wooden structure, carefully inspect it for knots, cracks, stains.
- Inspect and touch the already installed structure, doing this with slabs of plates does not make any sense.
Given these few simple rules, you will have at least an initial idea when purchasing and choosing a particular kitchen installation. So - you can control the editing process, so that it was really high-quality.