The worktop is the surface you use every day, and it is one of the first things people notice in a kitchen. Choosing the right material and fitting it properly matters. Here is how the main options compare.
Laminate worktops
Affordable, practical and available in many finishes. Laminate is cut on site, with mitred or masons joints, and edges are sealed to keep moisture out. Sink and hob cut-outs must be sealed carefully too.
Solid wood worktops
Oak, walnut and other timbers bring warmth to a kitchen. They are cut and fitted on site, then oiled. Wood needs room to expand and contract, so fixings and cut-outs must allow for movement, and the worktop needs re-oiling from time to time.
Quartz and granite
Stone worktops are made to measure. After the units are fitted, a specialist templates the worktops, which are then manufactured and installed — usually one to two weeks later. They are extremely durable and can include undermount sinks and drainer grooves.
Replacing a worktop only
You do not always need a whole new kitchen. Replacing tired worktops, the sink and the tap — and adding a new splashback — can refresh a kitchen quickly. We check that the existing units are level and strong enough first.
What good worktop fitting looks like
- Tight, level joints in sensible positions.
- Sealed cut-outs and edges.
- Correct support over dishwashers and corner units.
- Neat upstands or splashbacks finished with clean silicone.
Need worktops fitted or replaced in London? Ask for a free quote or see our kitchen installation services.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a worktop replacement take?
Laminate and wood worktops can usually be replaced in a day or two. Stone worktops need a template visit and are fitted once manufactured.
Can you cut a sink into an existing worktop?
Yes, for laminate and wood we cut and seal sink and hob openings on site. Stone cut-outs are made at the factory during manufacturing.
Do I need a new splashback with a new worktop?
Not always, but it is a good moment to update it, because the old upstand or tiles may not line up with the new worktop thickness.
Which worktop is the most durable?
Quartz is very hard-wearing and low maintenance. Laminate offers good durability for the price, and solid wood is durable if it is oiled regularly.