Kitchen benchtop resurfacing is the process of applying new materials directly over your existing benchtop. It’s a popular option for homeowners looking to refresh their kitchen without committing to a full renovation.
If you’re tired of looking at your worn-out kitchen benchtop, but don’t want the hassle of an entire kitchen renovation project, GT Kitchens and Bathrooms can help answer any and all questions you have about kitchen resurfacing .
Our team of highly trained professionals are experts in kitchen and bathroom renovations Sydney, with over 25 years of experience in both full-scale renovations and budget-friendly resurfacing projects.
So, let’s talk about benchtop resurfacing, including how it works, what materials are on offer, and roughly how much you can expect to pay.
How does benchtop resurfacing work?
In short, benchtop resurfacing involves putting a new surface over your existing benchtop. To do this, the surface is cleaned and sanded.
Any chips or cracks will be repaired in order to ensure the new benchtop sticks properly. Then, a special primer is applied. This helps the resurfacing material to bond securely.
Multiple layers of a durable, specially formulated resin or coating are sprayed on to the benchtop. This coating will mimic the appearance of granite, marble, or concrete (depending on your preference), without the need to completely replace the benchtops. A protective seal is added for resistance to stains, heat, and scratches.
Finally, the surface is left to cure until completely hard. The entire process takes only a day or two, and can completely transform the look of your kitchen with minimal disruption.
Different ways to resurface your benchtop
We’ve covered one of the most popular and affordable ways to resurface benchtops, with the application of a special countertop resin, but there are many resurfaced benchtop options available for different types of tastes.
These include :
– Laminate overlay :
Laminate overlay involves installing a thin layer of laminate over your current benchtop. It’s a quick way to change the look, and has a number of style options, from sleek modern patterns to more classic woodgrain.
– Epoxy resin coating :
Epoxy resurfacing is a thick, glossy coating that’s super tough and resistant to heat and scratches. It can create a stunning, glass-like finish often found in more modern kitchens.
Plus, it’s available in multiple colours, with the option to incorporate effects like metallic swirls, pearlescent finishes, or a faux marble look.
– Tile resurfacing :
If you’re feeling creative, you can also resurface with tiles. From ceramic to glass, or mosaic tiles, this method lets you customise your benchtop with more individualistic patterns and colours.
Resurfacing with tiling is a durable and practical option, though it does require careful installation.
– Overlay with stone or quartz slabs
If you want a more premium upgrade but don’t want to replace your whole bench, you can have thin stone or quartz slabs installed right over your existing benchtop.
This gives you the luxe look of natural stone without the need for a full demolition.
Benefits of resurfacing your benchtop
Over a long period of time your kitchen benchtop can become stained, scratched or outdated, but it can be costly to replace the entire benchtop.
Many of our clients wonder, is benchtop resurfacing a good kitchen upgrade?
The short answer is yes.
There are a lot of benefits to benchtop resurfacing that make this an excellent way to update your kitchen.
These include :
– Updating the look and appearance of your kitchen :
You can significantly alter the look of your kitchen with benchtop resurfacing, creating a completely new appearance in days.
There are options to suit any aesthetics, from sleek, modern surfaces to the more earthy appearance of warm timber.
– No need for extensive renovations :
Your kitchen benchtop can be resurfaced without the need to completely redo your entire kitchen, which means you can keep your appliances, pre-existing cabinets, and overall layout, but you’ll still be able to pull off a significant refresh to your kitchen.
– Minimal disruption to your life and daily work :
Benchtop resurfacing and construction can be finished in just a few days, as opposed to weeks or even months for a total kitchen makeover.
This means you can go back to your regular schedule more quickly and your kitchen will be out of commission for a much shorter stint.
Types of materials commonly used
For many homeowners, a high-quality benchtop that is crafted correctly is the main point of concern when it comes to benchtop resurfacing.
There are a variety of materials that can be utilised, each with key advantages that are worth considering.
– Laminate :
Laminate is a less expensive choice, and is available in a wide range of colours and designs. Modern laminate is far more hardy that the original 1960s version, although you’ll still want to avoid putting a hot pan directly on the benchtop.
– Acrylic :
Acrylic is a mix of 30% acrylic and 70% PVC. It is non porous, can be cleaned fairly easily, and can be constructed and installed with a consistent overall appearance.
– Zero silica stone :
Zero silica stone is an exciting new option that is designed to be safer for installers without compromising on strength or appearance.
Traditional engineered stones can contain silica dust, which is harmful when inhaled during installation or cutting, although it has no impact on those using the benchtops after installation.
Zero silica stone eliminates this risk while still delivering a durable, stain-resistant surface.
– Trend surfaces :
Granite Transformations is the exclusive provider of an additional benchtop resurfacing solution called Trend Surfaces.
This material is engineered to an optimal thickness of just 6.5mm, and combines the world’s finest granites, quartz, and advanced polymer technology to create a high-performance stone surface that outperforms many natural and engineered stones.
There are a number of benefits to using Trend Surfaces for your benchtop resurfacing, including that this product is :
- Available in an extensive range of colours
- Resistant to heat, scratches, stains, and impact
- Maintenance-free and hygienic, with no grout to clean
- Emissions-free
- Backed by a 10-year warranty
As experts in renovation and benchtop resurfacing, Granite Transformations highly recommends Trend Surfaces for your next renovation or build.
Some things to consider before benchtop resurfacing
Resurfacing your benchtop is an excellent way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom without the hassle of a full replacement.
However, like any renovation project, there are some key factors to consider before you dive in.
– Longevity and Maintenance :
Most resurfaced benchtops will last for many years with the correct maintenance. The materials used, including engineered stone, laminate or acrylic, are designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
The best approach to maintaining your resurfaced benchtops is cleaning with a nonabrasive sponge or microfibre cloth, and using an eco-friendly or mild surface cleaner.
– Quality and Resistance :
The materials used for benchtop resurfaced look need to be of high quality, and installed by an experienced resurfacer.
Starting with poorly made materials, which are also installed incorrectly, makes more for more work and unwanted expenses down the track.
At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms, we source our materials from quality local manufacturers, and work is carried out by our experienced, in-house professionals.
How much does it cost to resurface a benchtop?
The cost of your newly resurfaced benchtop may vary depending on the materials selected, the size of your benchtop and any other features or alterations.
Here’s a general guide with the potential costs below :
| MATERIAL | PRICE RANGE (PER M²) | ADDITIONAL COSTS |
| Laminate | $100 – $400 | Labour : $50 – $100 per hour |
| Engineered Stone | $600 – $1,350 | Edging : $30 – $100 per linear metre |
| Acrylic | $1,000 – $1,200 | Sink cut outs : $100 – $300 each |
| Spray Coating | $150 – $300 | Surface prep & masking : $100 – $200 |
| Trend Surfaces | $850 – $1,200 | Custom shapes & waterfall edges : POA |
| Zero Silica Stone | $650 – $1,300 | Edging & installation : $80 – $150 per metre |
Please note that this is a guideline only, subject to change depending on specific requirements and needs.
You can check out our helpful resource online about kitchen benchtop replacement costs in more detail.
Benchtop Resurfacing: Before and After
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After
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Benchtop resurfacing at GT Kitchens and Bathrooms
At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms, we specialise in benchtop resurfacing which can revitalise your kitchen.
Our highly experienced team can help talk you through the process and can assist you with selecting the right materials and finishes based on your needs.
We’re ready to help you create the dream kitchen. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Common FAQ’s
1. Can you resurface a laminate benchtop?
Yes, absolutely. At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms, we offer various options, including:
- Covering the current surface with a fresh layer of laminate
- An engineered stone overlay
The new material is usually applied after the previous surface has been cleaned, prepared, and then finished with the proper sealants or coatings.
2. Can you put new countertops on old countertops?
Yes, this is the main point of benchtop resurfacing. We specialise in covering over old benchtops with a new surface.
Most existing countertop materials, such as laminate, wood, and even tile, work well with this type of resurfacing technique.
This involves :
- Cleaning and prepping the old surface to ensure it is ready for the new surface
- Fixing any damages or unevenness to the benchtop
- Applying the new material, whether this is laminate, acrylic or engineered stone.
- Sealing off and completing the new surface
By using this specific technique, you can gain a brand new look to your kitchen within budget, and without the entire removal of the old bench.
3. How much does it cost to resurface a benchtop?
The cost of resurfacing a benchtop depends on the material you choose, the size of your kitchen, and any extra customisations you might want.
As a rough guide, laminate resurfacing is usually the most affordable, starting from around $100 per square metre, while more premium options like engineered stone or acrylic can range from $600 up to $1,200+ per square metre.
Other popular choices like spray coatings or Trend Surfaces, are a bit more of an investment but offer serious durability and a luxe finish.
You’ll likely incur extra costs for things like edging, sink cut-outs, or more complex installations.
4. How long does it take to resurface a countertop?
In most cases, the process takes just 1 to 2 days, depending on the size of your space and the type of material being used.
For example, a spray-on coating can be done in a day, while something like engineered stone overlays or Trend Surfaces might take a bit longer due to the precision and curing time involved.
5. What is the cheapest way to redo your countertops?
Spray-on resurfacing is one of the most affordable ways to redo your countertops. Quick and affordable, this method can completely transform tired or outdated surfaces with a smooth, stone-like finish.
Laminate overlays are another cost-effective choice, and have come a long way in recent years.
For DIYers, there are also paint kits available, which are super affordable, though they may not last as long.
6. Are laminate benchtops durable?
Yes, modern laminate benchtops are surprisingly durable—especially compared to older styles from decades ago.
Today’s laminates are made with improved materials and manufacturing techniques, which means they’re more resistant to scratches, stains and moisture.
While you’ll still want to use a trivet for hot pans, laminate is more hardy than most people think, and is a great budget-friendly option that holds up well with everyday use.
5. What benchtops are banned in Australia?
As of July 1, 2024, the use, manufacture, supply, processing, and installation of engineered stone containing crystalline silica is banned across Australia.
This decision was made due to serious health risks—particularly silicosis, a potentially deadly lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust during cutting or polishing engineered stone.
Luckily, there are several high-quality, high-performance, and safer alternatives on the market. These include zero silica stone, and Trend Surfaces.
Your GT Kitchens and Bathrooms professional can advise you on hardy alternatives to engineered stone.
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