Choosing a countertop for the kitchen
The kitchen is an integral part of any house or apartment, so it needs to be furnished as conveniently and comfortably as possible. Choosing the right kitchen countertop allows you to choose the best option that will last a very long time.
Consider models of kitchen tables from various materials, various shapes and sizes.
How to choose a kitchen countertop
In order to make the right choice, you need to decide on the main characteristics, features and functionality of a particular model.
By material
Kitchen countertops are made from a variety of materials that differ in properties, composition and characteristics. It can be: laminated chipboard with plastic, laminated MDF HPL, artificial or natural stone, wood, ceramics, steel, glass and others.
Many are interested in the question of which countertop is better than plastic or artificial stone, but it is worth studying the whole range of materials.
Let's take a closer look.
Chipboard laminated with plastic
The advantages are low price, a huge range of colors and shapes, easy installation. The disadvantages include a short operational period due to the inability to resist aggressive environments, the surface begins to bubble from moisture, a hot pan cannot be placed on the surface, as traces will remain, it is easily deformed and loses its color. In addition, chipboard contains formaldehyde resin, which is harmful to humans.
MFD, HPL laminated
It has a low cost, no harmful resins in its composition, a large assortment of colors and shapes. In addition, MDF does not lend itself to the harmful effects of fungi and harmful microorganisms. But, under the influence of acids, high temperatures, excessive moisture or strong physical influence, it begins to deteriorate.
Artificial acrylic stone
It consists of dyes, acrylic chips and acrylic resin. Absolutely any shape can be made from such material. It is durable and safe for human health; if necessary, repairs can be made without problems. The disadvantages are very high price, susceptibility to physical damage, lack of resistance to high temperatures. In addition, the manufacturing process is very complicated and time-consuming, and it is also very difficult to install such a tabletop.
Quartz Artificial Stone
Externally, the countertop strongly resembles natural stone, does not fade over time. The material does not deteriorate under the influence of acids, high temperatures. The service life is long enough, and it is also completely safe for humans. The disadvantages are a very high price, a small variety of shades, a lot of weight. It is impossible to carry out repairs on your own, all joints and connections are clearly visible that spoil the external picture.
A natural stone
Natural material has many advantages: resistance to high humidity, does not lose color over time, is absolutely safe for humans (with the exception of granite, which can emit radiation). But there are also disadvantages: high price, the choice of colors is very limited, seams and joints are visible, very heavy weight.
Wood
Quite popular due to its attractive appearance, easy maintenance and low price. But there are also significant advantages: it deteriorates under the influence of high temperatures, humidity, acids.
Ceramics
Usually ceramic tiles are attached on top of a chipboard board. This tabletop is resistant to high temperatures and moisture. A huge assortment of shapes and colors, and an attractive price. But it must be borne in mind that the seams between the tiles must be regularly cleaned and treated with an anti-fungal agent.
Steel
An interesting design solution. Maintenance of such a structure is very simple, it does not deteriorate under the influence of aggressive environments. When processing with an anti-corrosion coating, you can not be afraid of rust. But this tabletop is not suitable for all interiors.
Glass
It has a huge number of advantages: resistance to high temperatures, moisture, acids, easy maintenance. The cost of this design is quite high. When choosing materials, you need to rely on personal preferences and on the interior of the kitchen.
By size
After choosing the material, you should pay attention to the size of the structure. You will have to work with this surface every day, so you should choose the most convenient and comfortable one, take up not much space and do not interfere with access to other parts of the headset.
First of all, you should pay attention to the height of the structure. It will depend on the height of the person who will use it. It is recommended to choose a worktop with a height of 85 to 95 centimeters. The width of the table should be approximately 60 centimeters for a medium sized kitchen.
By quality
First of all, you need to pay attention to the quality of the countertop. So, it must meet the following criteria:
- resistance to moisture;
- inability to deform with physical and chemical stress;
- ease of care;
- appearance;
- the ability to independently carry out repairs;
- lack of harmful impurities.
Pay attention to the evenness of the coating, there should be no chips or cracks. All parts must be securely fastened together. You should also pay attention to the processing of ends, sharp corners and protrusions.
By design
It is also worth relying on the appearance of the structure. The worktop should be suitable for the overall environment and the interior of the kitchen; you need to observe the color palette and the combination of elements.
Some materials, such as metal or natural stone, are not always suitable. When choosing a shade, it is recommended to give preference to discreet colors.
From manufacturers, you can most often find the following design performance, depending on the shade: white, beige, brown, gray, black, with specks. Natural materials look more noble and attractive: wood, stone. The varnished wood is suitable for almost any interior.
Reliable and best kitchen countertops
From which manufacturer is it best to choose a countertop so as not to be mistaken? Consider the top of the most popular ones.
Slotex Premium
These are premium countertops that are artfully decorated and have reasonably good performance. It is made of high quality plastic, which is created using modern technology.
The tabletop does not lend itself to the adverse effects of moisture, high temperatures. The plastic is covered with a special protective coating that prevents it from collapsing. Its thickness is 0.4 meters.
Egger
A large assortment of worktops that perfectly complement the interior of the kitchen. The company manufactures products from metal, concrete, stone, ceramics, etc. they are quite durable and reliable, easy to maintain.
Stone Hand
The manufacturer uses various materials and processing methods, modern equipment. A large number of models are presented from artificial stone and glass. Such countertops may not suit everyone, but it is worth considering this manufacturer.
Tristone
A Korean company that produces acrylic artificial stone countertops. The product quality is at a very high level, with a wide range of colors and patterns. The cost of such products is quite affordable.
Kronospan Shining Stone SQ
This is a wide glossy black table with specks. High quality artificial stone is used in the manufacture.
SQ Kronospan marble
A shiny table that looks like natural marble. A large number of colors are presented: pink, gray, beige, brown and more. Perfect for a strict minimalist kitchen design.
Hanex Duo
Artificial acrylic stone is used in the manufacture. Country of origin - South Korea. The color palette is wide enough: white, black, gold, pink and other shades. The material is quite flexible, which allows you to give it absolutely any shape.
The countertop is an essential piece of furniture in the kitchen. Therefore, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to choosing a suitable model. Consider as many options as possible in order to choose the best one.
Video: how to choose a kitchen countertop and what materials to give preference to