While cabinets are examined for quality, door styles selected to suit individual tastes, and appliances chosen to save labour, the work surface can often be an afterthought. Yet worktops are the most visible part of the kitchen and subject to the most punishment. Colour and finish must compliment the cabinet fronts and withstand knocks, abrasions, chemical attack, damp, cigarette burns and steam. There is no other furniture component that is expected to tolerate so much.

Those who buy a poor quality worktop will soon be looking for a replacement. That entails removing the sink and hob, disturbing tiles, re-cutting joints and trimming the laminated edge decors. An expensive and disruptive remedy, that could cause you a lot of stress.

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