New benchtop!?

Question

We're renovating our kitchen and I'm curious, does anyone know the positives and negatives of laminate, stone and timber benchtops? Just want honest opinions from people with experience so that when it comes time to buy we're not just being sold something that the sales people want us to buy!

Thanks! :)

Answer 1

the worst thing that i can think of on a bench-top is when the laminate deteriorates and you are left with a surface that is a breeding ground for germs. timber is supposed to have a natural antiseptic or such, and you don't dull your good knife on it. stone would look cool, but are you prepared to spend ages on keeping the grouting clean? there is another option and that is a concrete top, you can colour it and they are supposed to last for ever.

Answer 2

I would recommend some warm cushion pad for the benchtop

Answer 3

Laminates are most cost effective ,and come in almost limitless colors and styles. Laminates are also very durable and easy to clean. Stone is the most expensive, and most appealing but requires a little more maintenance. I don',t believe wood is either durable or sanitary. I personally like ceramic tile. It is practically indestructible, no up keep, easy to clean, and comes in 100's of color , sizes, and shapes.

Mix in a accent border and use your imagination for a custom look.