Three safe kitchen benchtop alternatives to engineered stone

The move away from engineered stone

Bunnings was one of the first major retailers in both New Zealand and Australia to move away from engineered stone, following growing concerns about worker health and safety.

In Australia, a national ban on engineered stone came into effect from 1 July 2024. In New Zealand, the government and industry are also moving in the same direction, with engineered stone being phased out as part of broader efforts to reduce exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

With the popular material no longer an option, many renovators and tradies have been left unsure about which kitchen benchtop material to choose in its place.

Here are three durable, stylish and low-maintenance kitchen benchtops you can recommend to your clients.

Laminate

Hard wearing, non-porous and available in a huge array of colours and patterns, laminate kitchen benchtops make a great alternative to engineered stone. They’re affordable, too, allowing your clients to get the look of luxe materials like marble, wood grain and concrete for a fraction of the price of the real thing.

“With laminate, homeowners can capture the essence of stone, while enjoying its inclusive price point and durability,” says Giorgia Manenti from Kaboodle Kitchen.

With care, a laminate benchtop will look good and perform well for years. Laminate is stain-resistant and wipes down easily with mild detergent and water. For added protection, there are laminates with scuff resistance and anti-fingerprint technology. Kaboodle Kitchens’ Vanilla Cream and Almond Brittle are two such options, which are available at Bunnings.

It’s important to note, however, that it’s not as heat resistant as materials like stainless steel or natural stone, so a protective mat or trivet should be used for hot dishes, and a chopping board for cutting.

Minor chips and scratches can be repaired following instructions (check with the manufacturer). But if the damage is extensive, the affected section of benchtop would need to be replaced.

Solid surface

If your client wants a hygienic and hard-wearing kitchen-benchtop material that can be integrated to include a sink and splashback for a seamless look, solid surface is hard to beat.

Solid surface benchtops come in a range of colours and aesthetics, including those that mimic marble, terrazzo and concrete. It’s quick and simple to install, softer to the touch than natural stone kitchen benchtops and less prone to chipping.

Better Benchtops by AGB is made from the latest stone benchtop technology and has zero silica content, making it a safe alternative to engineered stone. They’re tough, easy to care for and resistant to scratches, stains and heat. These benchtops are backed by a 10 year warranty for peace of mind.

Timber

For many homeowners, nothing comes close to the warmth and beauty of a wooden benchtop. Natural timber and bamboo benchtops are popular, says Manenti. “They add warmth and textural interest to a space thanks to their raw tones.”

Kaboodle’s Square Edge Hevea Timber Benchtop is a 36mm-thick natural light blonde timber that’s both versatile and strong. Sourced from rubber plantation trees, Hevea is the perfect finishing touch.

Timber benchtops look beautiful but do require TLC – the surface can scratch, dent, stain or burn with hot objects. But applying a protective coating can help prevent damage. We recommend applying Cabot’s Benchtop Clear or similar, and wipe spills immediately and use a heat pad for hot pots and pans. If scratches occur, remove them with fine sandpaper and apply a recoat.

Explore our range of benchtops

Check out our wide range of kitchen benchtops either online or at your local store.

Frequently asked questions

What are the safest alternatives to engineered stone benchtops?

Safe alternatives include laminate, solid surface and timber benchtops. These options avoid silica content while still offering durability, style and performance suitable for modern kitchens.

Are laminate benchtops suitable for busy kitchens?

Yes. Laminate benchtops are hard wearing, non-porous and easy to clean, making them a practical and affordable choice for high use kitchens when cared for correctly.

What are the benefits of solid surface benchtops?

Solid surface benchtops offer a seamless, hygienic finish and can integrate sinks and splashbacks. They’re also tough, low maintenance and available in a wide range of modern designs.

Do timber benchtops require a lot of maintenance?

Timber benchtops do require regular care, including sealing and prompt cleaning of spills. With the right protective coating, they can remain durable while adding warmth and character to a kitchen.

Can damaged benchtops be repaired instead of replaced?

Minor chips or scratches in laminate and timber benchtops can often be repaired by following manufacturer instructions, though extensive damage may require section replacement.