How can I tell the difference between the 5 types of worktop for my kitchen ?
Work plan
Finding the ideal worktop is no mean feat: your plan can determine the overall ambience of your kitchen. Choosing the right material is complex, and raises many questions. What thickness ? Which grain ? What color will go best with my doors ?
Fortunately, we're here to help !
Granite, Quartzite, Marble, Quartz, Waxed concrete and Ceramics : what are the differences ?
The granite
Granite is an extremely hard-wearing high-end material. This all-natural stone is the most recommended.
"The blocks are extracted directly from the quarry. Each block has its own natural characteristics: nuances of hue, structure and veining. These particularities give natural stone its charm and nobility, adding a unique touch to projects" - says Corinne Delos of Spadaccini Marbres & Granits.
Granite is acid-, shock- and heat-resistant, making it functional (in other words, it will outlast you). The most commonly used is Zimbabwe black, which lends itself perfectly to a contemporary kitchen, with a sink placed underneath, like Bradano's Allaro model.
There is an infinite variety of granite in nature, and all over the world: "Nature has created some real marvels. One of the most fascinating varieties is Patagonia, a very present stone, with many contrasts and materials. It's impressive to see such a difference in colors assembled by nature. Patagonia stone is extracted from quarries in Brazil", says Corinne de Spadaccini.
Quartzite
Sturdy and simply beautiful, with a unique appearance, as if created directly by a painter : quartzite is a stone of character with nuances of color and brilliant inclusions. This natural stone adds a touch of elegance and character to your kitchens.
Bocklip tip Choose the essential Arabescato quartzite. Very similar to marble, but without the drawbacks, it brings a classic, elegant look without being too imposing.
Bocklip tip : For a colorful worktop, Jadore pairsperfectly with our Arabica oak. Stained green with gold veining, it echoes the hues of our wood, creating a perfect harmony.
Marble
Marble is a limestone native to Italy. Available in many parts of the world, such as Spain and Greece, each origin offers unique colors and characteristics. Contrary to popular belief, marble is less suitable for worktops, but more suitable for bathrooms and floors, which are less sensitive to acids. If, however, you've spotted a magnificent slice and you absolutely want it, prefer to lay it on an island.
The Quartz
Quartz is 95% natural materials mixed with 5% resins, so we don't recommend placing hot (+180°) tops on it. The patterns are more uniform and identical, for an elegant look.
Waxed concrete
Waxed concrete can also be used as a worktop. It is resistant to both impact and heat. It is available in the 71 colors of the Marius Aurenti color chart, enabling you to find the perfect shade to match your facades.
Bocklip tip: Mix your top in the same color as the Bocklip doors.
Ceramics
Last but not least, we're particularly fond of ceramic tops, whose composition may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but is always clay-based.
With its matte, designer look, the ceramic worktop is available in over twenty colors to match any décor.
Ceramic worktops are among the most resistant. Along with granite and quartz. It is virtually scratch-proof and can withstand temperatures of up to 900°C.
It also offers excellent resistance to impact, abrasion and UV, guaranteeing colorfastness over time. Ceramic worktops are non-porous and resistant to stains, grease, acids and corrosives.
To continue with your kitchen project, take a look at our range of front finishes.
