BENCHTOP ALTERNATIVES
When it comes to the materials you use in the kitchen or laundry, you want to make sure that you are getting the highest quality, that will not only last but also looks great.
You also want to be sure that the materials you are using are going to be safe for you and your family. There has been a lot of discussion lately around Reconstituted Stone for benchtops and work surfaces – and if using it in the home can have any health risks. Well, you can put your mind at ease – the answer is no. Let’s look at why…
What is Reconstituted Stone?
Reconstituted (Recon) stone, also known as engineered or composite stone, is a man-made material crafted from a blend of natural materials, resins, and pigments. Usually made with quartz or granite, the production process involves crushing natural stone into fine particles, which are then mixed with resins. This mixture is shaped into slabs or tiles, replicating the appearance of various natural stones such as marble. Reconstituted stone offers consistent colour, texture, and strength, making it a popular choice in construction and interior design for surfaces like countertops, flooring, and wall cladding.
So, what’s the worry?
Firstly, it is important to note that the surfaces themselves do not contain anything harmful. When making this type of stone, the moulded slabs are generally cut or sawed into the required dimensions and polished to bring out the shine in the factory. During this process, a very fine dust is produced, and if not done in accordance with correct health and safety procedures, can be inhaled by workers. It is this dust created during the manufacturing process that has been linked to health issue. Once the slabs have been finished and left the factory, there is no risk to you or your home.
We offer many alternatives.
Here at Kitchens U Build, we know that all our customers have their own concerns and needs when it comes to their home. So, while we know that Reconstituted Stone is perfectly safe and still a great option to install in your home, we do offer a wide range of alternatives.
Porcelain
Porcelain benchtops are made from powdered clay and colouring, bonded together by using high heat and pressure. This results in a surface which is highly resistant to absorbing any food or liquid spills, helping it to stay looking new. It is also incredibly dense, which also makes it highly resistant to scratched and chips from day to day living. Add to this their versatility – they can be easily textured or even have designs printed on them to suit your style, and can also be made in larger sizes, making them perfect for large spaces.
We offer porcelain bench tops from both Caesarstone and Vasari from Stone Ambassador that come in a huge range of finishes and textures, which are perfect for use as kitchen benches, splashbacks, on bathroom or laundry walls and vanities.
Thanks to Porcelains ability to take be designed and textured, it offers you complete freedom to choose from hundreds of different looks and styles, so you can get the look you want for your kitchen or laundry, without compromise.
Laminate
Laminate bench tops have always been renowned for being hard wearing and durable. While this has been a fact for many years, one thing that has changed recently is the way it looks. Modern laminate is a far cry from the muted whites and blacks we saw a decade ago. With advances in printing and photography, the look and feel of these bench tops is absolutely beautiful, allowing you to get almost any style that you want. Not only that but the depth and richness of colours now available means that you’ll be spoilt for choice, so you can get even more creative when it comes to design!
We have laminate options available from Polytec, Duropal and Wilsonart, ranging from natural realistic stone prints to bold colours, timber inspired looks to patterned finishes. Laminate benchtops are both stylish and affordable, and are incredibly versatile, meaning you can apply your chosen design to almost any surface, no matter the shape or size.
It’s your choice!
Choosing the right benchtops for your kitchen or laundry is crucial for enhancing both the looks and functionality. The selection of materials, colours and textures can significantly impact the overall design, creating a design flow throughout your home, and make for a visually stunning space. A well-chosen benchtop not only complements the style of your interior but also contributes to a sense of luxury and sophistication.
Practicality is equally important, as different materials offer varying levels of durability and maintenance. For kitchens, where activities range from chopping to hot pans, opting for a resilient and heat-resistant surface ensures longevity. In the laundry, a durable benchtop can withstand the rigors of daily use. By choosing a benchtop that suits your needs, style and budget, you not only elevate the appeal of your space but also enhance its practicality, turning your kitchen or laundry into somewhere that is both functional and stylish.