Natural stone is the legend of Australian kitchens, which has provided incomparable beauty, durability and style of timeless luxury. You may be renovating your house or you are planning out a whole new place, but one of the best choices you will make is choosing the appropriate benchtop.
Natural stone benchtops are available in so many colours, finishes, and types of stone that one can become confused yet it is much easier to choose the right type of natural stone benchtops when one is aware of what to look for.
We discuss below the key points that you need to be aware of in order to make a sure and fashionable decision.
1. Understand the Different Types of Natural Stone
The character of all kinds of stone is individual, its advantages and care needs. It is a good idea to get familiar with the nature of the most popular ones before you begin shopping:
Marble
Marble is a favourite in both traditional and modern houses because of its advanced veining and graceful subtle look. Sealing and gentle treatment must be used, but this should not be compared to its luxurious look. By collaborating with a respected marble supplier in Melbourne, you will be able to select an appropriate shade and finish to use in your space.
Granite
Granite is considered to be one of the hardest materials. This is scratchless, heat resistant and very tough, so it is suitable in busy kitchens. It also features special patterns, swirling and more gentle speckling patterns.
Quartzite
Natural quartzite is to be confused with engineered quartzite, providing the veining of marble in the strength of granite. It is a very good option when it comes to being elegant without the high maintenance.
Limestone & Travertine
These are beautiful, warm and naturally textured stones, which are most applicable to the areas where people do not need to travel quite often or to those homeowners who can afford to go out of their way.
You can decide which stone benchtop is best depending on your lifestyle, on the beauty of your taste and the extent of the care you can bear.
2. Look at Colour, Pattern and Veining
Natural stone is created in millions of years which makes each slab look unique. None of the pieces are ever alike–this is one of the attractions. Look at:
- Patterns of veins: strong, theatrical, slight or running.
- Base colour: white, cream, grey, black, golden colour.
- Movement: the graphic movement of the stone.
- Consistency: are you more of a uniform person or a variable person?
Sample It is always better to take home samples or see large slabs at home so as to make sure that the stone matches your cabinetry, flooring and the entire palette.
3. Choose the Right Finish
The finish of the stone affects both the look and functionality of your benchtop:
Polished Finish
Highly reflective, smooth and glossy, polished stone can be used to enhance colour and provide high levels of luxuriousness. It fits perfectly in contemporary and classy kitchens.
Honed Finish
The stone is polished and smooth VIP, honed and modern. It conceals scratches and can easily display stains.
Leather or Textured Finish
Leathered stone is slightly textured with a warm and natural appearance. It is very strong and many Australian households are using it.
The way you finish your items will change the whole appearance of your kitchen and you should think of the style and functionality.
4. Think About Thickness and Edge Profile
The thickness of the bench tops may alter the feel of your kitchen drastically. The standard thicknesses are:
- 20mm for a sleek, modern look
- 40mm and over to make it look more heavyweight and luxurious.
There is a big difference in edge profiles, too, including pencil, bevel, bullnose or ogee. Plain edges are used to provide a modern look whereas ornate ones can be used in traditional patterns.
5. Compare Pricing and Longevity
Natural stone is a capital investment. The prices are different based on rarity, origin, thickness and finish. Although marble might be more expensive in the short term, the beauty and classic properties of marble are appreciated by many house owners. The granite and quartzite are very durable and are cost effective in the long run.
A reliable vendor will assist you to strike a balance between the appearance and the features you desire and your budget.
6. Work With Experienced Professionals
Even more important than the stone itself is its quality of installation. Select the specialists in the field of custom cutting, correct templing and accurate installation. They will also guide you on how to seal up, maintain and after care to ensure that your benchtop has a gorgeous appearance in decades.
Final Thoughts
The selection of the ideal natural stone benchtop is all a matter of a combination of beauty, usefulness and fine art. Knowing the various stone types, keeping in mind your life and dealing with suppliers with experience you would find a surface that would make your kitchen shine and would last long. No matter your desired look be it modern elegance or traditional beauty, the appropriate choice of stone top will make your place an immediate success.