In the design of kitchen furniture, the countertop plays a leading role, and all because this is exactly the element with which the housewives have direct and long-term contact.In this aspect, we can safely say that this part of the headset should be multifunctional.
the material and color of the countertop matches the refrigerator
Thinking about which countertop to choose it is necessary to look not only at the beauty of the finish, but also at the strength and hygiene of its surface. Ideally, if there are no noticeable joints and crevices on it, into which crumbs and any dirt are so easily clogged. The table top should be easy to clean and there should not be visible streaks and traces on it after that. Let's see what manufacturers offer us today.
Types of countertops
countertop at the windowsill will save space in a small kitchen
In today's market, countertops can be grouped by physical features, price, and material composition. We, when choosing it, will be interested in the latter. So, the presented models can be made:
- From natural rocks;
- From a wood massif;
- From chipboard boards with subsequent tiling or plastic lamination;
- From glass;
- From metal;
- From artificial synthetic stones.
when choosing countertops for the kitchen should take into account such characteristics as strength and durability
Countertop for the kitchen - the subtleties of choice
The market is saturated with offers in this niche. Countertops make everything from artisan workshops to large furniture corporations. A modern buyer, even without special training in the production of tables, understands that it is possible to make a high-quality household item of this level only on the appropriate equipment and from high-quality raw materials.
gray countertop in the interior of the kitchen
Particular attention should be paid to the following points:
- Table edge trim. It must be pasted over with specific ABS or PVC edging material. The thickness of the finish should not exceed 2 mm. This not only looks aesthetically pleasing, but also adds airtightness to the surface, as it does not allow moisture or air to pass through. If you see that the cut is trimmed with a plastic edging that protrudes strongly above the surface, this is a clear sign to you that which table to choose would be a mistake. Only handicraftsmen work this way and there is no need to talk about quality here.
- The edges at the junction of the edge with the surface should not have whitishness and waves. Careful processing suggests that the edge will not peel off in the near future.
- There should be no traces of fasteners on the table top, because it is attached to the base with special filler equipment, and not in the old fashioned way, with euro screws.
- The product must have sufficient thickness, the minimum indicator of which is 2.2 cm.
- Do not purchase furniture that comes assembled. This is also one of the tricks of unscrupulous businessmen. The headset will “float” and warp in a couple of weeks of operation.
a countertop made from artificial stone will last for decades
Which tabletop to choose including installation
«Countertop for the kitchen is not only the subtleties of choosing a design, it is also the price policy of installation”
Designers say that the shape of the countertop is selected taking into account the peculiarities of the kitchen layout, the configuration of the headset and the nuances of organizing the work area. If possible, do not overload the space with corners, design surface shapes more streamlined. Don't make them too prominent either. Countertops should not interfere with movement.
wooden countertops of the island kitchen - a classic of the genre
When inscribing them into the decor, feel free to experiment.
Countertop for the kitchen is not only the subtleties of choosing a design, it is also the pricing policy of installation. The cheapest way to mount laminated models. For this, metal corners and self-tapping screws are used.
The steel tabletop is bent to the shape of the table. The task is time-consuming, and therefore the work is evaluated accordingly.
designer two-level stand
Stone and wood options are the most expensive to install, so if you want to replace a damaged work surface with products made from these materials, get ready to fork out.
We figured out the general points, now it's time to move on to the specifics.
Stone countertop - the queen of the kitchen
Installing a stone countertop is a truly royal decision. In terms of quality characteristics, none of the known options can be compared with it. The cold beauty of the stone will bring notes of palatial luxury to the atmosphere of the kitchen. What can countertops be carved from?
- from granite;
- basalt;
- marble;
- quartz agglomerate.
the cold beauty of the stone will give the kitchen interior gloss and luxury
The first type of countertops is cut out, polished for stone processing
Marble countertop for the kitchen has its own subtleties of choice. Here, in addition to the aesthetic appeal
marble countertop in the interior of the kitchen
Quartz agglomerated stone is classified as a natural material. In its composition there is a crumb of granite or quartz, the binder of which is polymer resins. The material has excellent strength characteristics, is not afraid of the action of acids and solvents. It cannot be scratched or broken.
wooden table top
Wooden models are unique in their design. The naturalness and neutrality of their colors allow them to become a successful addition to the interior of any style. A pleasant surface radiates warmth and fills the kitchen with a special coziness.
wooden countertop of a non-standard shape - a highlight in the interior of the kitchen
Wood tops need careful maintenance. It is undesirable to leave them wet or to put hot pans on such surfaces without coasters. Periodically, the surface should be wiped with protective agents that increase the resistance of the tree to aggressive factors in the kitchen environment.
Laminated worktop
You are limited in funds and at a loss, not knowing which table to choose? Feel free to go to showcases with laminated offers.This is an excellent budget solution that will serve you for years, as the surface is light-, heat-, wear-resistant, ready to withstand impacts and sharp objects. It can be treated with cleaning agents of any aggressiveness.
wood countertops need special care
The laminated countertop will not burn out, will not warp with temperature changes. Its heat resistance allows you to install the work surface directly next to the stove. Such a countertop will not get wet, since the joints with the sink are carefully sealed. Add to all the listed qualities ease of installation, high decorativeness of surfaces and you will get a great economy option.
metal table top
“Steel worktops only exist in a rectangular design, so the choice of such countertops for kitchen won't be too hard"
stainless steel worktop
Metal models are made from brushed steel and mirror stainless steel, so here you also have to think about how which table to choose. Experts recommend giving priority to the first type, since work surfaces with such a coating will be durable, extremely hygienic, moisture resistant and many times cheaper than stone. They will not leave streaks and visible prints.
The technology for their creation includes fastening a metal sheet to a chipboard with “liquid nails”, bending the free edges around the edge with a press and welding, followed by grinding the resulting seams.
Today, steel worktops only exist in rectangular designs, so choosing one for your kitchen won't be too difficult..
For corner kitchens, the structure is assembled from two parts fastened with ties. The matte surface will hide the joint, and grinding will make it almost indistinguishable. The table will be perceived as a monolithic structure.
a metal countertop is several times cheaper than a stone one
Mirror polished stainless countertops have not yet earned popularity among our hostesses. They are embarrassed by the difficulty of caring for them. It is too difficult to remove stains and stains from a shining surface without a trace, and after each touch, handprints are still fixed on it, which does not look at all aesthetically pleasing. The prospect of running around for days with rags in hand does not inspire enthusiasm even among the most notorious clean people.
Artificial stone in countertops
Faced with a dilemma which table to choose - from natural stone or still artificial - analyze the pros and cons of both options. It is worth recognizing that artificial stone is in favor today. The material is plastic, which allows it to be bent at any angle, creating furniture of bizarre shapes, so in demand in modern interiors. It is used in structures with radius facades. Countertops made of artificial stone are distinguished by a variety of textures and colors.
countertop made of artificial stone heat-resistant and moisture-resistant
The work surface, decorated with artificial stone, has no noticeable joints, it cannot be cut or otherwise damaged. She is heat-resistant, and caring for her is a real pleasure. To shine with cleanliness, a simple wipe with a napkin is enough for her. And its amazing stone shine is deceptive. The surface is warm and always pleasant to touch.
Glass is the epitome of style
Glass kitchen worktop, subtleties of choice which we will now consider - this is the most stylish solution for modern headsets. The working surface of this type looks bewitching. Naturally, what is used to create it is not simple fragile glass, but material tempered in a special way. It is heat-resistant, does not react to moisture, is strong, but is not ready for processing by abrasives. They may leave scratches.
glass top - a stylish solution for modern kitchen sets
When looking for a suitable option, look at the integrity of the surface, the absence of cracks and chips, and do not be afraid to experiment.
countertop. made of durable glass
Acrylic table top
It has a non-porous structure and is pleasant to the touch. Acrylic coating will never become a home for fungus and bacteria. It does not absorb odors and is environmentally friendly, despite the artificiality of its origin.
The low strength of the material is compensated by the ease of surface restoration. The damaged area is cleaned with sandpaper and polished.
acrylic countertops do not require complex restoration
Conclusion
Which tabletop to choose of the options presented, you will decide on your own, however, in pursuit of the fashion trend, try to stay on the offer that will be most acceptable for the conditions of your kitchen. Functionality and beauty in this case should not compete for primacy.
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