A kitchen worktop is one of the essential parts of the entire kitchen. It is the place where we usually prepare food. Whatever time we spend in the kitchen, most of it is spent on washing utensils, chopping, and preparing food on the worktop. Kitchen worktops are made from natural as well as engineered stone material. But, when we think of kitchen worktops, we usually visualize marble or granite worktops that are commonly used in residential and commercial spaces. There’s another type of worktops that are getting quite common in many homes and commercial spaces. Made of a combination of materials, these are known as composite worktops.

Composite worktops come in two varieties-one is made from an engineered stone, known as quartz and another is made from a solid surface stone called Corian. Composite worktops are not made from natural stone, like marble, or granite; they are entirely made of man-made surfaces.

Composite worktops offer enhanced durability and sturdiness than the ones made from natural stones. However, each of the two composite kitchen worktop materials come with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let us explore them in details below.

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Advantages of Using Quartz Worktops

Minimum Maintenance

Quartz is probably the easiest material to maintain. Quartz kitchen worktops do not require sealing. Additionally, a mild soap, water, and a soft cloth are more than enough for cleaning a quartz surface.

Non-Porous Nature

Since the quartz surface is non-porous in nature, it is not susceptible to stains. This allows you to prepare food regularly without worrying much about spilling spices and oils. The non-porous property also prevents bacteria and mouldy build-up in the long-run.

Durable Material

Quartz is an engineered stone, and thus it strong and durable. Once you install a quartz kitchen worktop, the chances are that you won’t settle for anything else.

Extensive Colour Palette

Quartz worktops are available in a wide colour palette that allows you to match it with the theme of your modular kitchen. It can also replicate the look of marble or granite surfaces.

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Disadvantages of Using Quartz Worktops

Chemical Sensitivity

Harsh chemicals like ammonia can harm the surface of quartz worktops. While choosing a worktop cleaner always be careful. In case, the quartz surface comes in contact with ammonia, neutralize the effect by cleaning it with water.

Not Suitable For Outdoors

Quartz worktops contain 93 % natural quartz, 7 % resins, and other binding agents. The presence of resin makes quartz kitchen worktop surfaces UV unstable. It is therefore not suitable for outdoor usage.

Advantages of Using Corian Worktops

Can Be Given Any Shape

Carving Corian kitchen worktops to any desired shape is a seamless task. It is, therefore, a preferred worktop material for people who are very particular about a worktop’s aesthetic appeal.

Wide Range of Colours

You can get Corian worktops in different colour range.

Easy Cleaning

Corian kitchen worktops are non-porous, which makes them hygienic and easy to clean. You can just use a clean cloth to wipe the surface every day and use mild soap and water occasionally to clean the worktop surface.

Disadvantages of Using Corian Worktops

Prone to Damage by Heat

Kitchen worktop surfaces made of Corian can face damage due to high heat. Always use a mat before placing hot pans and pots on the worktop surface. Also, avoid placing the pans from the burner to the worktop surface directly.

Not Resistant to Scratches

Despite the benefits, Corian worktops are prone to scratching and chipping if not taken proper care of. Use chopping boards to cut fruits and vegetables on Corian surfaces and avoid sitting or standing on the worktop surface.

Conclusion

Composite kitchen worktops are a great choice of modern homes. If you want to give a new look to your kitchen or customize the kitchen according to the theme of your house, composite worktops can be your right choice. But before you finalize on the worktop material for your kitchen, make sure to consider the pros and cons that come with each of them. This will help you to determine the best worktop for your daily use.

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