You would be wrong to think trends only apply to fashion, such as clothing. Trends are a thing, even in the world of worktops.
Square edges and sleek lines seem to be the current trends in kitchens, but is that the right choice for your kitchen?
Are you just simply asking yourself what worktops will match my cupboards? Or are you looking at the complete design aspect?
Once your new kitchen journey begins and you reach the time to choose your worktops, It can seem like a minefield, so let us make your journey simpler.
Below is a short guide that we hope will help you decide.
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If it's that cottage cosey feel you are looking for, solid wood has always been the go-to for cottage-style houses. However, so many laminate worktops now have the real wood look and texture that there's no need to go down that road.
Solid wood needs to be varnished/stained and requires upkeep, so although it is lovely to look at, you may not want that. However, it does have the advantage over laminate in case of any damages or scratches. Scratches with solid wood can be sanded away and re-oiled.
Brands such as Axiom, Duropal, Egger, Spectra, and more all offer real wood-look worktops in their ranges.
These days, the decor options available for laminate worktops are remarkable. Whether you want an authentic stone look, a wood effect, or a pebble effect, there are decors for all tastes.
You may even be considering a solid surface worksurface.
Solid surfaces such as Pietra, Mirostone, Minerva, etc., are cool to the touch and, so we've been told, excellent for baking enthusiasts.
Solid surfaces can be repaired should they become damaged or scratched; they are also a cheaper alternative to Granite or Quartz. No specialist tools are required. However, we always advise our customers that the fitter must have either visited a solid surface training course or had fitting experience. Fitting is usually a lot more costly compared to laminate worktops. More goes into the finishing of a solid surface, whereas laminate is basically done once it's in situ.
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You may be looking for sleek and trendy.
Now, this is where the on-trend comes into play. Many flats or apartment owners prefer the slimline or sleeker look. We have so many compact and slimline worktops to choose from: composite solid surface brands, as mentioned above, or the slimline laminate ranges are especially popular in cities, apartments and small kitchens.
Slimline worktops can be anything from 12-25mm square edge, while standard worktops are usually 38-40mm thick.
The 20-25mm worktops can be found in most laminate ranges and are usually square-edged.
There are also the more sleeker 12mm compact laminates to choose from. These can be found in Duropal compact, Aria 12 & 20mm compact, Spectra 12mm and Zenith 12mm compact.
Worktops sizes
Manufactured worktop sizes range from 3 metre to 4 metre lengths. Widths can vary from brand to brand.
A standard manufactured worktop width is 600mm. Anything more than this is usually called a breakfast bar but can still be used as a worktop.
Buying guide: Always check the brochure. If you see a worktop and the size is not listed in the brochure, it may not be genuine. Laminate can also be bought in sheets. Fabricators can make worktops by placing the branded Laminate sheet onto the chipboard. Always check, as it may not be 100% the manufacturer's own product, meaning the quality or guarantee may be compromised. At SSKD, we only use well-known branded products.
SQUARE EDGE WORKTOPS
Remember: If you want a breakfast bar like the one pictured below, choose square-edge worktops instead of post-formed, especially if the end will be rounded.
Once the desired shape has been cut, a laminate edging must be bonded on. We do, however, have made-to-order options. Your worktop or breakfast bar can be cut to size or shaped, then placed over the cabinets and bonded into place. You can speak to any of our advisers about that.
A compact laminate or solid surface would not require an edging; they are shaped and lightly sanded or polished.
Still, struggling with what worktop to choose? Let us help you.
We can send free samples, email images, or offer advice. Call us today at 01257 446149 or use the contact us form on our website to send an email.
You can also visit our showroom in The Standish Centre.
