Types of Kitchen Benchtops

KIND Kitchens is a reputed renovation company in Melbourne. We specialise in providing state-of-the-art kitchen designs. You’ll find our solutions innovative and future-proof. This applies to our kitchen benchtops as well.

A good benchtop must be functional, practical, durable, and aesthetically pleasing to get value for your money. To find the ideal piece, it’s best to understand the different kitchen benchtop materials and styles we offer:

One of the main advantages of solid timber benchtops is their longevity. They can outlive most benchtop materials. And though they are softer and have a lower density compared to other materials, you can sand and stain them to maintain their look.

There are a few aspects to consider when you choose solid timber for your benchtops. Solid wood doesn’t go well with steam & moisture. Avoid them as much as possible. And if you’re a person who prefers a smooth and sleek benchtop, then solid timber might not be for you. Due to its low density, it can leave scratch marks easily and would need to be sanded often.

Laminate benchtops are resistant to wear, scratches, boiling water, stains and moderate heat. We have an extensive range of colours, patterns and finishes, making them an ideal benchtop material. A simple wipe-down will remove stains and dirt, and a mild detergent for tougher stains.

Don’t use steel wool or abrasive cleaners as they’ll damage the surface in no time. Extreme heat can also deform a laminate countertop and sharp objects can cause unsightly lines or pockmarks. However, if your kitchen routine prevents these from happening, it’s a great value for your investment. If you’re not sure, you can speak with our designer about it.

Engineered stone is completely non-porous—you don’t have to worry about spills and stains. It’s also highly resistant to scratches and chips, making it low maintenance. However, they don’t react well to sudden temperature changes. Placing hot objects directly on the surface will damage it. Excessive force and pressure can also lead to cracks. Repairs can be costly, so you need to be careful while placing items on the countertop.

These benchtops can be easily cleaned using Windex or the original Jiff cream cleanser —avoid corrosive detergents and abrasive detergents. Our designers can give you some advice on how to keep your countertops clean.

As Work Safe Australia is banning high silica-engineered stone after the 30th of June 2024, most companies are bringing out their version of the 0 silica version.

They are durable and non-porous, making them an excellent choice for kitchen countertops. You can easily clean spills, and it prevents bacterial growth at the seams. Due to their versatility, we can customise them in almost every shape and size you’d like.

Taking care of composite benchtops isn’t hard. Our team can advise you on the best practices to ensure they last long. They are easy to maintain as you only need to wipe them down with mild detergent and a microfibre cloth. However, you need to be wary about heat—they don’t do well in direct contact with high temperatures. We recommend using trivets and heat pads when placing any hot dish or item.

Granite and marble are popular natural stones used for countertops as they come in various patterns, colours, and textures. Granite has high durability and will withstand most scratches or stains. It also has low porosity, making it hygienic, food-safe, and impervious to liquids.

If you’re looking for something top-of-the-line, our professional designers can recommend marble benchtops. Made with the hands of God, Its characteristic veining is unmistakable and almost impossible to copy. Our shop has a wide range of marble kitchen benchtops in different shades.

Natural stone countertops need extensive care. They are susceptible to quick temperature changes, causing cracks on the surface. Hence, avoid placing hot pots or pans directly on them. While granite is scratch-resistant, marble is not—abrasive detergents will leave ugly marks. Marble doesn’t do well with spills or food residue either. Anything acidic will stain the material if not cleaned immediately. You can use mild soap and a soft cloth to clean the benchtop.

Likewise, porcelain is an all-time favourite of many homeowners. This time-tested material is made of clay and other natural ingredients baked at high temperatures. You get a dense, hard surface that exudes elegance and style. Since they are available in varying thicknesses—12mm, 15mm, 20mm and more—they are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, floors, vanities, etc. This makes them suitable for heavy-duty applications like kitchen benchtops. Given its timeless appeal and classic looks, you cannot go wrong with a porcelain countertop.

At KIND Kitchens, we excel in designing kitchen benchtops that meet your preferences. Our expertise lies in customising different materials to suit every layout. Whether it’s a small kitchenette or an expansive U-shaped kitchen, we have you covered. You’ll enjoy durable surfaces that complement the interior décor and last a lifetime.

Reach out to us today and discover our innovative kitchen benchtop options. You can contact one of our four showrooms in Bentleigh, Blackburn, Chadstone or Hawthorn to start designing your kind of kitchen with us.