Tell me what material to choose a countertop for the kitchen

Pay attention to the material from which the tabletop is made

Initially, all kitchen countertops were made of wood. But with the introduction of new technologies into the production process and with the advent of modern materials, the decoration of kitchen countertops has become extremely diverse.

What are the kitchen countertops, and what material is preferable for their manufacture:

Is a solid option for finishing a work surface, but the price of such a finish is quite high.

• Chipboard coverings
  finished with plastic - the most popular type of countertops for the kitchen today. This is due to the democratic cost, relative strength and a rich selection of colors and textures for finishing;
• Countertops decorated with ceramic tiles
  - they are used quite rarely, since the overall design of the kitchen should correspond to the decor of the kitchen surface. For example, retro decor with ceramic tiles on the kitchen floor and walls;

• Stainless steel
  for countertops it is more often used in the design of professional kitchens, but at home it is simply impractical to use it for decoration. As you can see in the photo, such coatings give the kitchen decor an overly formal and uncomfortable look.
• Wooden
  arrays of countertops - are used in the design of author's kitchens from natural solid wood and it is rather difficult and expensive to care for them;
• Laminated
  countertops - the most budgetary option for kitchen coatings;
• Acrylic
  kitchen surfaces are a relatively new option for kitchen coatings, but worthy of attention due to their strength and functionality;
• Glass countertops
  are used only in designer kitchen sets and in kitchens where daily cooking is not expected. Since even tempered glass is still a rather fragile material.

What are the main points to pay attention to when choosing a countertop for the kitchen:

• Resistance to moisture - after all, the surface is washed very often;
• The surface must withstand aggressive detergents;
• The ability to install the coating with your own hands, without resorting to expensive carpenter services;
• Recently, solid wood worktops have become very popular. Fewer docking joints make the surface stronger, more durable and easier to clean;
• Naturally, the design of the countertop should be in harmony with the overall design of the kitchen.

What are the parameters of the countertop cost? The price depends primarily on the size, thickness and the selected material as well.

The thicker the cladding, the more expensive it is. The cheapest of chipboard, laminated chipboard, plastic, then
postforming, MDF, acrylic and ascending stainless steel,
artificial stone, natural stone, glass.

When buying, be sure to be interested in:

• How much is the measurement
• Rise to the floor,
• Delivery,
• Installation (the cheapest installation of a tabletop made of
  laminated chipboard, then steel and plastic, the most expensive is stone).

Chipboard table top

Stainless steel working cover

In addition to the aesthetic component, the countertop must meet a number of requirements. It must withstand constant mechanical damage, be moisture resistant

It is also important that the surface does not absorb odors and is environmentally friendly. Manufacturers use a wide variety of materials for kitchen countertops, from affordable and simple to more expensive.

Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will look at what kitchen countertops are, and how to choose the perfect one for yourself.

Natural stone kitchen countertops

Surfaces made from natural materials such as stone, granite or marble do not absorb moisture and odors at all. The materials are resistant to the highest mechanical stress and withstand high temperatures perfectly. Caring for them is very simple. You can always restore the shine to these types of kitchen countertops with a simple polish.

Unfortunately kitchen marbles have a significant drawback. The price of such pleasure is quite high, so they are used only for luxury kitchens. Fits perfectly into any type of interior, but not suitable for small rooms, as it will look too bulky.

Plastic kitchen countertops

Kitchen countertops made of chipboard coated with plastic or laminate are the most popular today. This demand is driven by low cost and ease of installation. There are also coated MDF kitchen countertops. There are two design options: with and without drip tray. The types of countertops for the kitchen of the first type have a special silicone treatment of the bottom joint, which prevents moisture from getting inside.

Kitchen countertops made of plastic can be chosen in any color, the coating allows you to imitate any material. At the same time, the laminate does an excellent job with mechanical damage, it is not afraid of high temperatures. But under the influence of water, the chipboard quickly deteriorates. Most often, this problem occurs in the area of ​​\ u200b \ u200bthe sink. Among all types of kitchen countertops, this material has a significant drawback - the inability to make a monolithic structure, there will always be a seam between the joints.

Artificial stone kitchen tables

The material consists of three components, among which there is an acrylic stone. Depending on the dyes, completely different colors and textures are obtained. Acrylic stone kitchen worktop is a compromise between price and surface characteristics. It copes well with any kind of damage during operation, is safe in terms of hygiene and its design is completely monolithic, the seam is very difficult to see. But all these advantages are fully reflected in the cost. And only the manufacturer can install it.

Mosaic kitchen countertop

This is the most original and effective option among other types of kitchen countertops. not afraid of hot steam, easy to clean. Such a surface copes well with mechanical damage, so you can even wash it with aggressive and abrasive agents.

The handmade table top will cost a pretty penny. In addition, you will have to change the grout over time, since dirt will always be clogged there.

Wooden kitchen worktop

Natural wood is environmentally friendly and creates a special comfort and atmosphere of warmth in the house. But the cost of such a pleasure is high, and you will have to take care of the tabletop especially carefully. Damage resistance is poor, and without constant polishing, bacteria begin to multiply and stains remain.

Advantages and disadvantages of different types of materials

Inexpensive countertops are mainly made of wood (MDF, chipboard and so on). Less affordable items are made from metal, glass, stone, and other materials that are more durable.

Stone

Stone countertops are a classic option for the kitchen. However, this material is quite expensive and requires the installation of a solid base that can withstand increased loads.

Artificial

In its "pure" form, artificial stone is not used for the manufacture of countertops. This material is used in combination with quartz chips and other fillers. Also, inexpensive artificial stone made from concrete mix is ​​often used in kitchens.

Granite

Granite has the following positive features:

• attractive appearance;
• increased resistance to moisture, temperature extremes and aggressive environments;
• does not lose color;
• washes well;
• does not “collect” pathogenic bacteria;
• long service life (several decades).

Granite is overpriced, beyond repair and weighs a lot. The material absorbs dyes.

Marble

Marble is capable of giving off cold at any time of the year. This material is distinguished by its aesthetic appeal and long service life.

Metal

Metal surfaces meet the basic requirements for such products. The disadvantages of such countertops include the fact that the material is expensive and fades over time.

Glass

Glass, like metal, also meets the requirements described. However, this material does not tolerate mechanical stress arising from contact with abrasive substances. Chips appear early on the glass. And the material itself is expensive.

Wood

Wood is considered a good option for making countertops. But this material is not devoid of a number of pronounced shortcomings.

Array

The array stands out due to the following features:

• robust construction;
• attractive appearance;
• increased maintainability and moisture resistance;
• reasonable price (provided that countertops are purchased from common types of wood).

The main disadvantage of the array is that the tree requires regular self-care. In addition, if the material is not impregnated in production, then over time, due to natural drying out, cracks appear on the countertop. It is also possible for mold to form against a background of high humidity. To prolong the life of the solid wood, it is not recommended to place hot objects on the wooden surface.

MDF

The popularity of MDF countertops is due to the following characteristics that distinguish such surfaces:

• environmental friendliness;
• a wide variety of colors;
• low price;
• resistance to the formation of colonies of bacteria and mold.

MDF does not tolerate exposure to high temperatures and strong shocks. With prolonged contact with water, the wood material swells, which leads to surface deformation. The latter is leveled by lamination of the product.

Chipboard

The most affordable countertop with the same features as MDF. The main difference between these materials is that chipboard is less resistant to moisture, dyes and corrosive substances.

Ceramic tile

Ceramics are capable of retaining their original appearance for a long time, withstands thermal and mechanical influences, high humidity. At the same time, crumbs constantly accumulate at the joints between the tiles, and therefore the material requires regular cleaning.

Laminated surface

Laminated surfaces are made from MDF boards. Therefore, such products have the same advantages and disadvantages as the specified material.

Acrylic

Acrylic is used for the manufacture of products of complex shapes. These countertops are distinguished by the following features:

• pleasant to the touch;
• characterized by a monolithic construction;
• environmental friendliness;
• hygiene;
• increased maintainability.

Acrylic is expensive, does not tolerate mechanical stress and contact with aggressive substances.

The properties of agglomerate and natural stone are identical. Moreover, the former is more expensive than the latter. Agglomerate is heavier than natural stone and lasts longer.

Colored kitchen countertop

Most often, headsets of bright, colorful tones are combined with tops of woody, beige, white shades. In rare cases, black hinged pedestals are used. When choosing a countertop for similar kitchen furniture, you should take into account its saturation.

The type of shade of the facades also matters. It can be cold or warm. The first type includes shades of green, blue, pink and purple. In their combination, a white countertop will look perfect.At the same time, hinged shelves should be of light colors. This combination will add elegance and tenderness to the room. The combination of colored fronts with dark shades of the surface will add brutality to the kitchen and create the effect of roughness.

With warm tones, you should also deliberately select an interior element such as a kitchen countertop. Which one to choose? The color of the facades will tell you the right solution. Warm shades (orange, yellow, red) will go well with brown and cream countertops. Such an interior will look cozy and bright. All its components will merge in a single harmonious image. People in such a room will be quite comfortable.

Chipboard products

Particleboard is one of the most common materials for making kitchen countertops. Its prevalence is directly related to the relatively low cost, so most families can afford stoves from it. As a rule, chipboard sheets from 2 to 6 cm are used for the manufacture of kitchen countertops. The thicker the plate, the more expensive it is, but also much stronger.

Chipboards are made by pressing a large amount of wood chips and various resins. For the manufacture of plates for the kitchen, only one type of chipboard is used from many existing ones, which has a high level of moisture resistance.

When choosing a countertop, you need to learn more about the class of chipboard that was used in its manufacture. Some of the resins contained in such plates tend to evaporate, and these vapors contain elements that are very harmful to human health.

In the decoration of chipboard kitchen sets, materials such as polystone, colored film and others are used. The choice of decorative textures is huge, you can order a headset decorated for any material, for example: wood, stone, granite.

Advantages of chipboard slabs:

• Low price barrier available for most families of different social and material status.
• Short production time.
• Large selection of designs, due to which the headset can look more expensive and solid.
• Uncomplicated installation process.

Disadvantages:

• Low resistance to high temperatures, high risk of fire.
• Short service life.
• They are not protected from moisture at the ends and side parts, as a result of which these parts can deform and swell due to high humidity.
• In the manufacture, substances and resins harmful to the human body are used.

Nowadays, there are many ways to protect chipboard countertops from moisture and give it a better look. For example:

• Using a protective melamine film by applying it to the board.
• Coating of individual worktop parts with a 3 cm layer of plastic using high pressure and high temperature.

Homemade countertops

A special place among the options presented is occupied by a homemade kitchen countertop. Which one to choose? Feedback and ideas from users of such products provide a wide field for the manifestation of creative imagination.

Homemade countertops can be made from glass or ceramic tiles. Glass is a fairly wear-resistant, brittle material. It is very easy to leave scratches and chips on it, which cannot be restored in any way. However, such a tabletop will look original. A collage is made in a special frame of the appropriate size. These can be drawings, photographs, etc. They are covered with glass.

Ceramics are used in a wide variety of ways. From broken tiles to large, solid pieces. It all depends on the fantasy. With the help of grout, the seams of such a tabletop are made out. Such material will be durable, fireproof. However, he will require careful attitude to himself and proper care.

The heterogeneity of such a surface is not suitable for every housewife.Therefore, with all the advantages of creative solutions in the design of kitchen countertops, the practicality of the material chosen for it should also be taken into account.

Natural wood kitchen surfaces

Choosing a kitchen set, each of us dreams that the work surface in the kitchen is not only durable, high-quality and beautiful, but also not harmful to health. Natural wood countertops, most often made of oak or bamboo, have just such qualities. Kitchen sets made of these materials are not only insanely beautiful, but they are also durable and will last for quite a long time.

If you choose from cheaper countertops, you should note such materials for their manufacture as walnut, birch, pine and others. Products made from this wood are cheaper, lighter, affordable for people with average material income.

With high humidity and water getting on the wood, it swells and loses its shape, therefore it is thoroughly impregnated with oil solutions and covered with a layer of varnish, which provides additional protection.

Also, kitchen countertops can be made not from a solid wood board, but by gluing several wooden parts together. Bonding increases the strength of the surface and reduces the chance of deformation under the influence of certain factors.

No matter how high-quality the wooden tabletop is, it in any case needs care and respect. You should protect such a surface from scratches, cuts and splits, which most often arise from cutting food without a special cutting board. To care for the wooden set, you must use the appropriate detergents.

Pros:

• Great appearance.
• No harm to health when using such countertops.
• Moisture resistance subject to basic care rules.
• Long enough term of use.
• They are in the mid-range and remain affordable for most middle-income families.
• The tree has disinfecting properties, so that bacteria and other harmful living organisms will not multiply on the surface.

Minuses:

• A small selection with beautiful wood textures, a poor color palette.
• Relatively low resistance to high temperatures, high risk of fire.
• Instability to strong mechanical stress, as a result of which defects in the form of dents and cracks may remain on the plate.
• They need regular maintenance (use of special products, surface polishing, varnishing).
• Not resistant to various chemicals and dyes.

Kitchen Design

Kitchen furniture design should always be a single ensemble. Regardless of whether a plastic or wooden set is chosen, the tabletop should be in harmony with the cabinets in color and style.

When choosing a design, you must focus on the following criteria:

1. Coating quality. Moisture constantly gets on the countertop, stains form. Only high-quality material will last a long time.
2. Easy to operate. Modern technologies make it possible to manufacture furniture that can be wiped with a napkin to remove all dirt.
3. Experts advise laminating surfaces. The service life of MDF and chipboard without plastic coating is short.
4. The kitchen set should be bright and attractive. The kitchen should be cozy.

Recently, designers have advised not to be afraid of radical solutions. A black headset will look rich and sophisticated. Even if it is an artificial stone, the illusion of real dark marble will be created.

The white version is ideal for lovers of bright rooms. It lifts and improves mood. The morning in such a kitchen will always be kind.

Unusual bright colors, solid orange, light green, blue and other shades are often found.Countertops must be in harmony with the kitchen. It is possible to make them not just brown or beige, but also highlight them in any other color.

MDF: beautiful and practical

The manufacturing process is similar to the production of laminated chipboard sheets, only the base is different. This is an MDF board, which is distinguished by its high density and the complete absence of toxic substances.
Material advantages:
Safety and environmental friendliness.
A variety of colors, it is possible to imitate any surfaces, even complex textures.
High resistance to microorganisms and fungi.
Low cost.
Significant disadvantages are considered to be weak thermal stability, the possibility of a dent after a strong impact, and sensitivity to moisture. With prolonged exposure to water, swelling of the joints and sections of the tie-ins is possible. However, in comparison with chipboard, the likelihood of such a problem is much lower, since MDF absorbs water much worse. If the laminating used low quality plastic over time, stains may appear in areas where intensive cleaning was carried out.

Installation and maintenance

The shape of the product must be chosen, focusing on the footage of the room and its layout

It is worth paying attention to the headsets, how they fit together. It is better for the kitchen to minimize the number of corners, otherwise it will interfere with movement

Experiment with the design, you can even consult with the professionals.

When choosing a countertop, it is worth considering the cost and complexity of installation. Each material, as described above, has its own characteristics and difficulties. It is better to fix the skirting board at the last moment, when all work with the kitchen is finished. It must be chosen correctly, because it is he who closes the gap between the wall and the countertop.

Any surface must be wiped and cleaned. The easiest cleanup is to wipe it down with a damp cloth, and if using a cleaning agent, remove the moisture with a paper towel.

MDF or chipboard

It is the most cost-effective material and outperforms wood and marble competitors in many ways.

For the base, MDF or chipboard is used, there is practically no difference between them. But MDF is safer for humans, since it does not emit toxic formaldehydes and phenols. Particleboard is a little thinner and is an order of magnitude lower. On average, the price per running meter is 2000-5000 rubles.

The main advantage is that you can choose absolutely any pattern and color. And there are all kinds of surfaces: glossy, matte, smooth, rough, etc. Plastic imitates both wood and stone.

The tabletop will be shock-resistant, not strong alkalis and acids, scratches, easy to clean.

Color variety

The color of the countertop should correspond to the shades of the kitchen set and the general style of the interior. This nuance must be taken into account when choosing a product.

Brown

A brown kitchen set is also recommended to be installed in large rooms. This color is in good harmony with light walls.

This "cold" color is inherent in natural stone. Therefore, gray kitchen surfaces look sophisticated.

Orange

Orange surfaces in kitchens are also rare for the reasons described. In this color, the facades of the headset are usually performed.

Green

Like yellow, green surfaces look bright and beautiful. Being in a kitchen made in such a color scheme, a person does not experience discomfort.

Blue and blue

Both colors also provide a comfortable kitchen experience. However, these shades are referred to as "cold".

Where does the choice of kitchen countertops begin?

Before deciding on the material, you need to understand what shape your work surface will have. Despite the advanced capabilities of modern production, not all materials can retain their strength after changing their shape. Recently, such a solution as a countertop window sill in the kitchen has become very relevant.

This is both an original design design and an additional place for work, which is always relevant in the conditions of small-sized kitchens. If you are assured that absolutely any building material will be able to cope with the task at hand, you should know that this is not so.

You should also pay attention to the ease of installation, if you want to install a countertop in the kitchen with your own hands, given modern technologies, this is quite realistic. It is also better to choose the color of the countertop in advance.

Not all materials can boast of a rich assortment of colors. Considering modern interior styles, the color scheme can be chosen based on the color of the floor or furniture facades.

It is also better to choose the color of the countertop in advance. Not all materials can boast of a rich assortment of colors. Considering modern interior styles, the color scheme can be chosen based on the color of the floor or furniture facades.

It is advisable to choose a plinth for a countertop in the kitchen in such a way that it does not accentuate the transition from the work surface to the wall, but, on the contrary, makes it as smooth as possible.