A Handy Guide To Kitchen Countertop Materials

From marble to laminates – each kitchen countertop material brings different functions to the table

Kitchen countertops
Credit: Home and Decor
Share this article

Kitchen countertops are arguably the most important part of the kitchen in terms of design; it's the centrepiece and affects the function, weight, durability, proportion and cost of renovation. It's not a decision to be made lightly, and one should read up about the different countertop materials and its pros and cons before making a decision!

Marble

Credit: Home and Decor
1/6

Its distinctive veining makes this natural stone luxurious and grand. However, marble is not as durable as other materials. One mistake with a knife and you’ll have a permanent scratch on your beautiful countertop It’s soft, porous and stains easily as well, so it must be sealed often to protect it from damages.

Granite

Credit: Home and Decor
2/6

Just like marble, no two pieces are alike, so your counter will be unique. One of the most preferred materials, because it’s solid, durable, and long-lasting, this igneous stone is resistant to scratches and heat, but that doesn’t mean you should place hot pans on it without a trivet. To ensure longevity, it needs sealant, but not as often as marble does.

Available at Cosentino.

KompacPlus

Credit: Home and Decor
3/6

This is made from layers of kraft paper and resin. Although just 6mm thick, the panels are hardy, non-porous and resistant to heat, water and steam.

Choose from designs that mimic natural wood and even stone.

TIP

“The durable surfaces of KompacPanels are easy to maintain. A simple wipe down using a wet cloth is sufficient for everyday cleaning, and we also provide a Care Guide with recommended solutions to treat various stains,” says Damien Tan, director of KompacPlus Pte Ltd.

Available at KompacPlus.

Engineered Quartz

Credit: Home and Decor
4/6

Made of at least 90 per cent ground quartz with resins and pigments, it comes in an array of styles. It is also tough and non-porous so no worries about stains. However, although resistant to heat, too high a temperature could damage it. It may also cost more but you could save on its upkeep in the long run.

Available at Caesarstone.
TIP
“In most cases, a mild detergent is enough to keep a Caesarstone surface looking like new. If necessary, use a non-abrasive soft soap along with a non-scratch or delicate scrub pad. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove residue.”
– Vivian Feng, Head of Marketing, Caesarstone South East Asia

Laminates

Credit: Home and Decor
5/6

This cost-effective alternative offers lots of design options. It’s also pretty durable and non-porous. However, to avoid scorching, you should avoid placing hot pans directly onto it. A sharp knife can easily nick its surface.

Available at EDL.

Solid surfacing

Credit: Home and Decor
6/6

A mix of polymer resins, minerals and colourants makes this manufactured material non-porous and resistant to stains but it is susceptible to scratches. On the flip side, it can be sanded down to make it appear new. Great for L- and U-shaped kitchens, the solid surface sheets can be glued and sanded to erase the seams.

Available at Evershine.

Text: Michelle Lee/Home and Decor

Share this article