How to choose a countertop for the kitchen: the most detailed guide

Today, there are about a dozen different materials that your kitchen countertop can be made from, and each of them has its own unique properties.

Here is a list of them, sorted from the most popular to the least popular material (to quickly jump to a review of the desired material, just click on an item in the list):

• laminated chipboard
• MDF
• Acrylic
• Agglomerate (quartz)
• Natural granite
• Solid wood
• Natural marble
• Ceramic tile
• Steel

At the end of the review we give some very important recommendations, as well as a useful video.

Next, we will look in detail at the pros and cons of each of these types, so that you can understand for yourself which countertop is best to choose for the kitchen, which one will be the most practical and high-quality.

Ideal tabletop image

As you know, the countertop is the working surface of any kitchen, which is a slab of a certain material that covers the cabinets of the lower section of the kitchen unit.

Due to the fact that the countertop plays a very important functional role, it is subject to a number of mandatory requirements that must be met regardless of the material of manufacture:

• waterproof and moisture resistant;
• resistance to aggressive substances - acids, dyes, oils, household chemicals;
• resistance to mechanical stress - scratches, abrasions, impacts of dishes and appliances;
• resistance to thermal effects;
• hygiene - the surface should be easy to clean from stains and dirt;
• color fastness against abrasion and UV rays;
• beauty and aesthetic properties.

Essentially, the above requirements are listed in order of decreasing importance, i.e. from the most important to the less significant parameter that influences the final choice.

Let's take a closer look at each of the materials from which kitchen countertops are made these days.

How to choose a countertop for the kitchen: useful recommendations

To avoid disappointments and unpleasant surprises, after installing a new coating, you should listen to simple tips.

• Everything should match the kitchen set. A simple laminated chipboard, for example, will look ridiculous on a cabinet made of natural wood. In addition, it is desirable that all kitchen elements “age” at approximately the same speed. This way they can be replaced at the same time.
• Choosing between glossy and matte finishes can seem difficult. It is most practical to choose a matte option. It is not so capricious to care for and maintains a neat appearance longer.
• When deciding on the tone, you should focus on the color of the facade. They should resonate harmoniously. For MDF and LSDP boards, it is optimal to choose light shades. Dark ones are more effective, but over time they may develop lighter stains in areas where the coating has been washed extensively.

Choosing a kitchen countertop is not difficult if you take into account our recommendations. There are a lot of options, you just need to choose the optimal one, focusing on the characteristics of the coating and its cost. Even the most inexpensive models will last a long time, provided they are used carefully and the operating rules are followed.

Tabletops made of laminated chipboard

These countertops are made by treating particle board with high pressure plastic (HPL).

Enveloping the chipboard with a layer of plastic occurs through the use of postforming technology.

So, the advantages and disadvantages of laminated chipboard:

Despite a number of disadvantages, this type of surface is most often used as a countertop in kitchens in the CIS (⅔ of the market).

Here is one of the many reviews about countertops made of laminated chipboard.

Of course, those consumers who can afford to spend 100-300 USD. per linear or square meter, they consider laminated chipboard an unworthy material.

We believe that chipboard countertops laminated with HPL plastic are the best choice in the budget class.

What you need to check with the seller before purchasing:

• When purchasing laminated chipboard, be sure to pay attention to the emission class of the board, which indicates the formaldehyde content. It should be E1 (ideally E0), but in no case E2 or higher;
• Look at the cut of the slab - in most cases, moisture-resistant chipboard, in addition to special markings (P5), is distinguished by a green or blue coloring pigment;
• The type of plastic should be HPL (High Pressure Laminate) and not CPL. It is an order of magnitude better in all respects.

All of the above parameters will affect the final price of the countertop.

MDF

In the manufacture of such countertops, an MDF board is taken as a basis, which is covered with a high-strength laminate (the same HPL) and then coated with a special protective layer.

In simple words, MDF countertops differ from their laminated chipboard counterparts only in the plate itself (base), and are laminated with the same high-pressure plastic.

MDF differs from chipboard in its higher chip density and the absence of resins harmful to humans.

The advantages and disadvantages of such countertops can be identified as follows:

Here is a review in defense of MDF countertops:

What you need to check with the seller before ordering:

• What plastic is used in the proposed board? (needs HPL);
• What is its thickness? (this greatly affects the price, but also durability);
• What is the moisture resistance class?
• What and how are the ends covered?

Acrylic

Photo: stemcellglobal.org

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Photo: stemcellglobal.org

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Photo: stemcellglobal.org

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Acrylic is an artificial analogue of stone; it is not inferior to it in hardness, and due to the lack of porosity, it even surpasses it in water-repellent properties. Tea or coffee spilled on an acrylic surface will not leave any trace.

The manufacturing method allows us to obtain a monolithic, seamless tabletop. Despite the fact that an acrylic countertop imitates stone, it weighs much less, maintaining all the strength of its natural counterpart.

Pros:

• successfully imitates stone,
• has water-resistant qualities,
• resistant to ultraviolet rays,
• has a wide color palette,
• the absence of pores in the material does not allow fungi and pathogenic bacteria to develop.

Minuses:

• insufficient heat resistance,
• instability to strong impacts, such as a knife,
• instability to abrasive cleaning agents.

Acrylic surfaces

The production technology of such countertops consists of binding very fine mineral chips (aluminum trihydrate) and color pigments with acrylic resin (hence the name), which is poured into the mold required by the customer.

Due to this, the working surface can be made in almost any geometric shape without compromising strength, without seams or joints.

Sometimes this material is also called “liquid stone”.

The pros and cons of such countertops for the kitchen include the following.

Speaking of color options, you can actually choose any color for the countertop.

The manufacturer, through variations of the dye and base, can offer you almost any surface texture or color.

Reviews about this material are quite contradictory. For example:

Of course, there are more positive reviews.

That is, the main thing that owners of such countertops complain about is the occurrence of scratches.

We would recommend not choosing dark colors (even though they look more expensive), because... Scratches are very visible on them, but on light ones they are almost invisible.

What you need to check with the seller before purchasing an acrylic countertop:

• What is the thickness of the stone - at least 6 mm, well, better than 12 (we are talking about the thickness of the acrylic layer without a backing);
• What acts as a substrate and how does its type affect the cost?
• Who is the manufacturer? The best brands are Corian, Staron, Hi-Macs, Rehau;
• Is there a warranty and how much will it cost to sand out scratches in the future?

Wooden table tops: application options

Today, desk tops have an honorable role in modern interiors. And it’s not surprising, since they are endowed with many advantages:

• nobility of structure;
• possibility of use in any interior;
• naturalness and environmental friendliness;
• high strength;
• durability;
• practicality;
• variety of varieties and sizes.

The wooden tabletop is a stunning addition to any room.

Such products can become a decoration and an excellent addition to kitchens, living rooms, offices, and bathrooms.

A desk top made of oak is a wonderful solution. With minimal care, the product will delight you for many years. In addition to the fact that wooden furniture is a popular trend, such products create an indescribable feeling of comfort and warmth in the home. The process of working at such a tabletop will certainly evoke positive emotions.

If used correctly, a table made from oak tops will easily withstand tests such as mechanical stress, temperature changes and humidity. Thanks to the wide possibilities of processing wood material, you can design a tabletop of any size and shape. Due to the variety of colors and textures, finishing and processing methods, the scope for original design solutions is significantly expanded. It is oak countertops that are the most sophisticated and reliable products among the whole variety of similar structures.

A tabletop made of oak will last for many years

Wooden structures made from solid oak or ash are an ideal option. Thanks to the varnish coating of the tabletop, a special layer is created that ensures an unlimited period of use of such a product. The noble wood structure goes perfectly with the light shades in the room, giving an aristocratic touch to the room.

Whatever room the desk top is installed in, it can look incredibly stylish and will be an excellent addition to the interior. In addition, modern designs for desks are of the highest quality and reliability. Being environmentally friendly, they can be installed in absolutely any room, including the rooms of small children.

Countertops made of agglomerate (quartz)

Popularly, these countertops are better known as quartz, artificial granite, or agglomerate.

The composition of such an agglomerate consists of 90-95% solid components - granite, marble or quartz chips, as well as binding elements.

Unlike acrylic, agglomerate actually uses stone, as well as harder resins - epoxy.

Obviously, thanks to this composite, work surfaces made of this material are much stronger and more reliable than acrylic ones.

The agglomerate has very important advantages, and its disadvantages, in some cases, are absolutely insignificant.

Please note that, unlike acrylic, quartz surfaces are an order of magnitude heavier. This must be taken into account when calculating the load on the headset.

Among the manufacturers of quartz agglomerate countertops, we would recommend:

• CaesarStone;
• Samsung;
• PlazaStone.

And here is one of the real reviews about such surfaces:

What you need to check with the seller before purchasing:

• What is the thickness of the stone without a backing - experts recommend at least 12 mm, and for maximum reliability 20 mm;
• What acts as a substrate (chipboard, MDF, blown glass)?;
• What will be the final weight of a countertop made of such artificial stone? This is important to know for the correct design of the lower section of the headset (for example, reinforcement of the walls may be required);
• What will be the full price - the countertop, all the cutting and cutting work, delivery, installation and related fittings.

In our opinion, agglomerate countertops are the best option among premium kitchen worktops.

Read also - a detailed review of the pros and cons of countertops made of artificial stone.

Choice of shape and size

The dimensions of the countertop are largely influenced by the expected load - the number of installed technical means and the type of work for which they are intended. The shape of the surface also depends on the location of the workplace. Its classic rectangular version is considered optimal for placement in a room of the same shape. Standard models usually have sharp corners treated with a special edge.

On children's desks and those used in places with a lack of free space, in order to avoid bruises and injuries, it is better to use tabletops with softened (rounded) corners.

Other forms of surfaces are also used for desks:

1. Corner ones are compact, easy to use, practical, functional, save space as much as possible, there are models designed for several workplaces.
2. Oval - as a rule, these are rectangular structures with corners rounded to a large degree. Such models are more often used in offices, simultaneously playing the role of meeting rooms.
3. Figured - usually made to order as an imitation of antiques or to bring to life special design projects.

How to assemble a simple coordinate table with your own hands, tips for craftsmen
Figured ones are often called ordinary tabletops with a small, several centimeters, recess for ease of use. In fact, these are so-called orthopedic surfaces that allow you to move closer to your workplace. This form has a beneficial effect on the formation of posture and the condition of the spine.

Corner

Oval

Curly

The dimensions of the desk top depend on the anthropometric data of the person and the purpose of its use. The minimum depth is 60 cm (maximum - 80 cm), the width is at least a meter, and the distance from the floor is 70-80 cm.

The thickness of the surface depends on the area, material of manufacture, and also on the frame on which it is placed:

• 10 or 16 mm - such countertops look sophisticated, but require good central support to eliminate the possibility of sagging under load;
• 25 mm is the most common option with good strength; with a length of up to 140 cm, it requires only four supports;

Desk tops with a thickness of 32 or 35 mm are typically used in formal offices or other situations where a solid appearance is required from the furniture.

10-16 mm

25 mm

Real granite countertops

The basis of such countertops is, as you already understood, natural granite.

They have some of the best wear-resistant qualities and are not susceptible to mechanical and chemical attack from appliances, food, and household chemicals.

So, speaking about kitchen countertops made of natural granite, you need to know the following.

What you need to ask the manufacturer before ordering:

• First of all, a granite deposit?;
• Is there a quality certificate for this product?;
• Does the quality certificate indicate the class of granite based on the specific activity of natural radionuclides? He must be 1st class (see picture below);
• What will be the final weight of the tabletop?
• Naturally, what will be the price of such a working surface, taking into account the cost of the material and all the work.

Required Tools

For simple, quick assembly of the table with your own hands, prepare electrical, measuring, and hand tools, as well as equipment and consumables. Everything you need can be purchased in advance or rented.

Step-by-step making of a desk with your own hands, examples of decor

From electrical equipment you will need:

• jigsaw;
• screwdriver;
• drill;
• grinder.

You will also need hand tools:

• saw or hacksaw for wood;
• Phillips and flat screwdrivers;
• planer, jointer;
• nippers, pliers;
• hammer;
• furniture stapler (if inserts from plywood, hardboard or tabletop upholstery are planned).

Measuring tools are purchased in advance:

• a ruler at least 1 meter long;
• roulette;
• calipers.

Don't forget about the equipment - you will need:

• workbench with a vice, clamp.
• drills for wood and metal with a diameter of 2 to 12 mm;
• wood crowns with a diameter of 20 to 130 mm;
• for straight through holes - Forstner drills;
• bit set;
• fasteners (plates, screws, T-nuts or Z-brackets - depending on the chosen design);
• wood glue, paints and varnishes, putty;
• miter box - for cutting at an angle.

All this is needed to make the elements and assemble the table with minimal loss of time and effort. If you plan to decorate with mosaic, glass, resin or other materials, you will additionally need equipment and tools to work with them.

Solid wood

Made from wood species with a high threshold of durability and strength.

The most popular species from which such countertops are made are oak, walnut, ash, bamboo, and iroko.

The main characteristic when choosing an array is minimal flexibility to moisture and mechanical stress.

Despite a number of disadvantages, in Europe, especially in the UK and Scandinavian countries, wooden worktops are very popular.

Here's an interesting review:

So, if you are ready to put up with some shortcomings, but still really want a solid wood countertop, go for it!

What you need to ask the manufacturer before ordering:

• First of all, what types of wood are offered? As mentioned above, the best choices are oak, wenge, beech, ash and walnut. Less commonly, larch, cedar, iroko;
• What is the class of the array? Its knotiness depends on this (ideally you need A or A/B);
• What is the thickness of the shield - experts advise 40 millimeters;
• What will the tree be covered with?;
• How to care for such a countertop and where to buy special products?;
• What mounting hardware will be used for installation?

Marble

Another type of natural stone that is used as a kitchen work surface.

Compared to granite, marble looks much more beautiful, but at the same time, it has a number of quite significant disadvantages.

In general, with careful and attentive treatment, a marble countertop will be an excellent option for spacious kitchens designed in a classic or neoclassical style.

Here is one of the reviews about such countertops.

What you need to pay attention to before ordering:

• Check out the available palette;
• Ask for a quality certificate for marble and pay attention to the radionuclide content class (as in the case of granite);
• What is the price per square meter, cutting labor, delivery and installation?

Ceramic tile countertops

In our apartments and houses this type can be found quite rarely.

However, there are people who like just such countertops.

As a rule, they are laid out either with medium-sized tiles, or with small mosaics, or all together.

Often, the base on which the tiles are laid is chipboard.

Let's look at the pros and cons of such a work area.

In fact, the cost of such a work surface will be 90% directly dependent on which tile you choose.

Here is a useful review, in our opinion, from the owner of a ceramic tile countertop.

In our opinion, this option for designing a work area is greatly underestimated, because it has many advantages.

What you need to understand before deciding to make such a countertop:

• First of all, you need to decide on the type of tile: mosaic, small or medium, what kind of pattern, etc.;
• Next, understand how much you need to buy such tiles and how much the installation work will cost;
• Approximately how much will such a surface weigh and what kind of frame should be made?

Steel

The first association that comes to most people in connection with a steel work surface is a kitchen in a restaurant or other catering establishment.

Yes, it so happened that, thanks to its properties, “stainless steel” best meets sanitary and hygienic standards in many countries.

However, let's compare the advantages and disadvantages of this material as a base for a countertop.

If we talk about interior styles where such a tabletop would be acceptable, then this is loft, hi-tech or industrial.

Below is one of the reviews related to stainless steel work surfaces.

What you need to ask the manufacturer before ordering:

• What will act as a substrate?
• What options are there for steel thickness?
• How to care for such a surface and do you need special equipment for this?

A few final tips

For dessert, we have prepared a few more practical tips that will help you avoid a number of unpleasant surprises:

1. 1. The simpler the set, the simpler the tabletop should be and vice versa. There is not the slightest sense in installing a marble surface on a chipboard kitchen or a cheap laminated chipboard countertop on a set of natural wood;
2. 2. Natural stone countertops are best suited for spacious kitchens (from 20 sq.m.) and are inappropriate in small rooms with an area of ​​4 - 6 sq.m. (Khrushchev-era buildings);
3. 3. Whatever countertop is installed for you, be sure to be present during its installation. Control how accurately the surface is cut, how it fits to the wall and the lower section, how the baseboards and edges are installed;
4. 4. Surfaces made of granite, marble, quartz are very hard, so you will need to learn to place dishes (plates, cups, etc.) more carefully;
5. 5. Regarding the question of which countertop is better: glossy or matte, let’s say the following. Experience shows that matte countertops (of any type) are more practical than glossy ones. Moreover, this is confirmed by dozens of reviews on specialized forums and websites;
6. 6. Look and feel the display finished countertop in the material you like. No samples or pieces will give you such a complete picture as an already made and installed surface;
7. 7. In cases of ordering a tabletop made of solid wood, it is vitally important to independently and personally select the piece from which it will be made (+ take a photo several times). This must be done so as not to later discover unexpected knots, spots or textures you don’t like on the finished product;
8. 8. Light colors are better for surfaces covered with plastic (chipboard and MDF). This is due to the fact that over time, in places where stains (especially difficult ones) have been frequently wiped off, the plastic will lose color a little. On a dark surface this is very noticeable, but on a light one it is an order of magnitude less noticeable;
9. 9.You can ask the manufacturer not to throw away the pieces of stone that remain after cutting out places for a sink or hob. They can be used for a coffee table or used in the country house.
10. 10. If you don’t know whether it’s better to choose plastic or artificial stone, then you should start from your budget. Laminated chipboard countertops are cheaper, but they are inferior in many characteristics to agglomerate, which costs several times more, but it is definitely better than even the highest quality plastic.

As you can see, there is no 100 percent ideal material that would fully meet all positive requirements and at the same time be free of shortcomings. However, we have told you everything that we, as well as owners of such countertops and experts from manufacturing companies, know.

We hope that we have helped you decide which material will be the best choice for the work surface of your kitchen.

If you have interesting experiences or any other useful information regarding the selection and use of kitchen countertops, share them in the comments!

Voting: the best materials for countertops

What material would you choose or recommend for a countertop?

Granite

8.21 % ( 17 )

Marble

1.45 % ( 3 )

Concrete

1.93 % ( 4 )

Lava stone

7.25 % ( 15 )

Ceramics

1.93 % ( 4 )

Glass

1.45 % ( 3 )

Agglomerate

21.74 % ( 45 )

Acrylic

14.98 % ( 31 )

Stainless steel

2.90 % ( 6 )

Tree

8.21 % ( 17 )

MDF

19.81 % ( 41 )