If you’re renovating your kitchen, one of the biggest decisions you need to make is the type of benchtop surface you want. Having some ideas for kitchen benchtop surfaces before you start can save you time and money by allowing you to shortlist a few options before you get started.
Not only do benchtops have a big impact on the overall look, it’s also the hardest working surface in your kitchen, so durability is a big factor. Here’s a rundown of 11 of the best kitchen benchtop materials and what to think about before choosing one for your home.
1. Sintered stone benchtops
This is a relatively new mainstream alternatives to engineered stone, which the government banned from 1 July 2024 due to health concerns. While engineered stone was one of the most popular choice of benchtop material for kitchen renovators, many of the most popular brands have developed new alternatives since the ban was announced. For example, the Smartstone Sintered Collection has the elegant appearance of natural stone as well as the durability of porcelain.
“Sintering combines advanced stone manufacturing technology with natural fusion techniques to create an ultra-compact, non-porous stone surface with a refined aesthetic,” the Smartstone website states.
As another example, Caesarstone has a collection of Mineral Crystalline Silica-Free collection, which offers stylish designs to suit a wide range of kitchen aesthetics.
2. Laminate benchtops
If your kitchen reno is on a tight budget then laminate is a cost-effective solution that doesn’t compromise on looks. Laminate has the widest range of colours and designs that imitate more expensive materials such as timber, stone and even concrete. That means you can get the look you’re after without a more expensive price tag.
It’s resistant to staining and easy to keep clean but is more susceptible to scratching and scorching so always use a cutting board and be careful with hot pots and pans.
3. Timber benchtops
While you may think of timber as being a bit old fashioned, it is definitely making a comeback. You can bring a touch of warmth and character to your kitchen with timber when you’re using colder materials like glass and stainless steel elsewhere in the kitchen. The wide variety of available species means you can go light with the yellowish colours of ash or contrast light-coloured doors with the darker tones of walnut.
Timber needs to be coated with either food-safe oil or polyurethane to protect it. Oil needs to be reapplied every year or so to remain effective. While polyurethane lasts longer, recoating involves sanding back the entire benchtop first before applying a new coat.
4. Solid surface
Solid surface benchtops are an acrylic resin with a filler of alumina. The joins between each piece of benchtop are invisible after installation, so it seems like one big slab of stone. You can also have the sink moulded into the benchtop so there’s nowhere for dirt to collect, making it easier to keep clean.
It’s also UV-resistant so it is an ideal choice for an outdoor kitchen. Another advantage is that solid surface benchtops can be repaired. Major damage such as heat scorching can be fixed by the manufacturer without the need to replace the whole benchtop.
5. Stainless steel benchtops
A chef’s favourite, stainless steel can also be the tone and texture you need to balance your kitchen palette. Heat-resistant, hardy and easy to clean, it can be wrapped over worktops and island benches, formed seamlessly into sinks and kitchen splashbacks, and used for feature shelves, too.
You can also get different finishes on the stainless steel, from the classic brushed look to patterned and textured finishes, which may be a bit more forgiving when it comes to smudges.
6. Polished concrete benchtops
Add raw contrast to timber or glossy joinery by using concrete on benchtops, over a wall as a cool backdrop to open shelves or as an island and benchtop in one.
Like stone, concrete requires sealing and is not practical for splashbacks.
7. Marble benchtops
Marble is a gorgeous, natural stone that is commonly used in kitchens as a benchtop and splashback material. It’s a timeless and sophisticated option but it comes with an eye watering bill and substantial upkeep.
Though it’s surprisingly porous and will soak up spills like a sponge, damaging the look of your investment, there are plenty of ways keep marble looking clean and brand new.
8. Granite benchtops
Granite makes for an exquisite and enduring surface for your kitchen benchtop. However you’ll need a significant budget – it’s considered the second most expensive material after marble.
On the plus side, there is a stunning variety of styles and colours to choose and it can withstand anything you throw at it. To clean granite, use warm water and soap to help keep its shine.
9. Porcelain benchtops
Porcelain benchtops are growing in popularity thanks to their durability, versatility and affordability. They can withstand high heats, scratches and stains and their low porosity makes them a very hygienic option.
10. Bamboo benchtops
Bamboo can be an eco-friendly and less expensive benchtop material than some other options. It can also be suited to any style of kitchen, from country to contemporary.
Bamboo kitchen benchtops are often sealed with oil (which will need to be regularly reapplied) or with polyurethane (which is more resistant to staining). Fortunately you can repair damage by sanding back the benchtop and refinishing it.
11. Ultra-compact surface benchtop
Ultra compact surfaces are made of natural materials found in glass, porcelain and quartz, which are put under extreme heat and pressure to create an incredibly durable product. Basically, it uses a high tech process to copy what Mother Nature does to natural stone over thousands of years, in a much shorter time frame.
It’s strong, stain resistant, scratch resistant, heat resistant and non-porous, making it a reliable choice for your kitchen countertops.
