Introduction

Nature has provided us with a number of materials that lend themselves well to worktops, adding a stylish and organic element to a kitchen.

Each length of worktop will have its own individual markings, which can make colour-matching tricky, but will ultimately add to the character of the surface.

In addition, since these worktops are solid, sinks can be mounted beneath the level of the worktop, and detail such as drainage grooves or in-built knife slots can be cut and polished without revealing an unfinished surface.

Hardwood worktops

Wood adds a unique touch of warmth to any kitchen, being well suited to both traditional and contemporary styles.

• To make this surface water-resistant, at least three coats of a high quality oil such as Danish Oil or Rustic Oil should be applied to all surfaces, particularly the end grain. Once installed, the surface should be oiled weekly for a few months, and thereafter when water is no longer repelled by the surface (ie the water doesn’t form beads).

Hardwood worktops may be made from several species of tree, including (in order of increasing expense) Beech, Birch, Oak, Iroko, Maple, Cherry & Teak. Teak and Iroko are often used to make garden furniture as they are more water-resistant thanks to their own natural oils.

Note: These woods should still be cared for in the same way as other hardwood worktops as this will improve their heat-resistance.

These worktops are manufactured from thick strips of wood, or staves, which are glued together via very strong finger joints, as illustrated. The larger the individual staves, the more expensive the surface will be.

• Before installing a wooden worktop, it should be stored in the room into which it will be fitted for a few days, away from radiators, for it to assume a stable moisture content.

Hardwood worktops are;

• Available in a range of species and construction techniques to suit any budget
• Easy to maintain as scratches and dents can be sanded out
• Easily cut to fit any kitchen layout
• Very heat-resistant if properly maintained
• Naturally antibacterial
• Durable
• Able to be installed by any kitchen fitter

• High maintenance, requiring regular oil coatings
• Not resistant to stains, especially from standing water
• Not able to be installed with invisible joints

Granite worktops

Granite is a form of igneous rock formed hundreds of millions of years ago from cooling magma in the Earth’s crust. It quarried, cut to size and polished to give a very smooth, high shine surface.

Granite is sourced from all over the world, offering quite a variety of colours and natural patterns.

Since granite is not easily cut with domestic tools, suppliers offer a make-to-measure and fitting service, which enables you to choose the surface details and edge profiles that you require.

Granite worktops are;

• Very durable
• Heat Resistant
• Maintenance free
• Waterproof

• Expensive
• Easily stained by wine, oil and acids such as vinegar
• Tricky to install so always use a qualified fitter

Marble & limestone worktops

• It is not recommendable to use these materials as worktops in a kitchen as marble is easily scratched and stained and limestone is actually slightly water-soluble.

These materials do not make hard-wearing surfaces and ultimately will require replacement after a relatively short period of time.

Pyrolave worktops

Made of natural volcanic lava, with a glaze applied to the surface. Having been fired at a very high temperature, the glaze forms a crazed effect.

Pyrolave worktops are;

• Waterproof
• Heat-proof
• Completely impermeable
• Unaffected by exposure to direct flame

• VERY Expensive
• Tricky to install so always use an authorised fitter

Further information and useful links