Are you thinking about investing in a stone benchtop but you are worried about care, maintenance and the possibility of it getting damaged or cracking?
Let’s be honest, this is a real fear for many. It’s not a small amount of money that you are choosing to pay and you want to know that you are investing it wisely.
Composite stone and granite are extremely hard materials to begin with. They are currently the most preferred benchtop product for a new kitchen, however, they are not indestructible.
Here are some guidelines to help you ensure that your stone benchtop will stand the test of time.
- Ensure that your cabinetry and supports have been installed properly.
Stone benchtops are heavy and hence strong cabinetry and supports are crucial to ensure the stone stays level. We recommend a cabinet maker and installer with a good reputation for accuracy and quality. Speak to us about which cabinet makers we recommend in your area. - Ensure that the stone benchtop manufacturer knows and understands product specifications for manufacture and installation of stone benchtops.
Stone benchtop fabrication must adhere to manufacturing and installation specifications. It is important that the benchtop templator and installer are fully trained in these areas. Love My kitchen Benchtop prides themselves in taking exceptional care during manufacture and installation ensuring all warrantee regulations are adhered to. We are one of the first benchtop companies in New Zealand to have their employees all enrolled in a Stone benchtop and Fittings apprenticeship. - Do not place extremely hot pots on your stone benchtop
Rapid and extreme temperature change can cause thermal shock which is the uneven expansion of the molecules in an object. This can cause your kitchen benchtop to weaken or crack in extreme cases. It is always best to use a chopping board or thermal board to place hot pots on. Speak to us about getting a chopping board made out of your stone material. - Do not stand on your benchtop
Heavy weight placed on ‘weaker’ areas of your benchtop such as island overhangs and corner cabinet areas can cause movement. Make sure you use a step ladder to get that out-of-reach item and try to avoid exceptional dance moves on your benchtop! - Don’t use harsh acids on your benchtop
Acids can break down the resins or seals on your benchtop and can cause staining. It’s best to use recommended stone cleaning products or warm soapy water to clean your kitchen benchtop.
A Stone kitchen benchtop is a sound investment in your home. There is something about stone that gives a home that higher ‘spec’ when compared to any other benchtop material. If you look after your stone kitchen benchtop and follow the simple care and maintenance advice that we leave with you, you can be rest-assured that your benchtop will continue to look just as stunning as the day it was installed.
Speak to your kitchen company about using us to supply your stone benchtops.
Other articles you may be interested in:
Sintered Stone Benchtops: All you need to know.
