What is Benchtop Resurfacing - Granite Transformations
Home / Blogs / What is Benchtop Resurfacing

What is Benchtop Resurfacing

Share this article

Kitchen benchtop resurfacing is the process of applying new materials over the top of your current kitchen benchtop.  

This is becoming a common choice for homeowners who want to update their kitchen without starting a significant remodelling job. 

If you’re tired of looking at a fairly worn out kitchen benchtop, but don’t want the hassle of an entire kitchen renovation project, kitchen resurfacing is the perfect budget friendly option for you. 

Let’s explore more about kitchen benchtop resurfacing and what this entails, including: 

Benchtop resurfacing as an excellent option for your kitchen  

The durability and practicality of benchtop resurfacing 

The costs involved 

Common FAQs about benchtop renovations 

At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms our team of highly trained and professional kitchen and bathroom renovations Sydney have over 25 years of experience offering exceptional craftsmanship, for all your home benchtop renovation needs. 

 

Is Benchtop Resurfacing a Good Kitchen Upgrade? 

The short answer is yes definitely! There are several great reasons why benchtop resurfacing is a great option for updating your kitchen.  

Over a long period of time your kitchen benchtop can become stained, scratched or outdated making food preparations difficult, often it is quite costly to replace the entire benchtop, especially for those who need a fresh makeover. 

Let’s take a closer look about what makes benchtop resurfacing an excellent upgrade option: 

marble benchtop

Updating the look and appearance of your kitchen 

You can significantly alter the look of your kitchen with benchtop resurfacing. You can create a completely new appearance or match your current kitchen aesthetics with a variety of colours, patterns and finishes. 

For those who like a sleek styled appearance of stone or the more earthy appearance of warm timber there are many resurfaced benchtop options available for different types of tastes. 

 

No Need for extensive renovations 

Your kitchen benchtop can be resurfaced without the need for you to completely redo your entire kitchen, this is a huge advantage point. 

You can keep your appliances and pre existing cabinets, and overall layout and you’ll still be able to pull off an excellent makeover to your kitchen. 

Additionally, you can focus your budget towards the main element of your kitchen, as resurfacing is significantly cheaper than remodelling your entire kitchen. 

 

Minimal disruption to your life and daily work 

Benchtop resurfacing and construction can be finished in 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 less time spent without using your kitchen. 

 

Is Resurfaced Benchtop Durable and Practical for My Kitchen? 

For many homeowners, a high-quality benchtop that is crafted correctly is the main point of concern when it comes to benchtop resurfacing.  

Let’s look at how benchtops are resurfaced and what you should consider in terms of quality. 

Solid Surface

 

Types of materials commonly used: 

There are a variety of materials that can be utilised, each with key advantages  

Engineered stone: This material has outstanding heat resistance and durability, due to its non porous qualities, making it highly resistant to stains, the growth of bacteria and microorganisms.
 

Laminate: A less expensive choice which is available in a large range of hues and designs. With more modern production of laminates this option is more resistant, than the type of laminate made in the 1960’s. Although it isn’t completely heat resistant, you can’t directly put a hot pan or item on the bench surface directly and requires a bit more maintenance.
 

Acrylic: This material is a bit more multipurpose and 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.  

 

Longevity and Maintenance 

Most resurfaced benchtops will last for many years with the correct maintenance.  

 

The materials used like engineered stone, laminate or acrylic are designed to withstand daily use, with typical wear and tear. 

 

The best approach to daily maintenance is cleaning with a nonabrasive sponge or microfibre cloth, and using an ecofriendly or mild surface cleaner in order to maintain the overall quality and long lasting look of your resurface benchtop. 

 

Quality and Resistance 

The materials used for benchtop resurfaced look need to be of high quality, for instance how the materials are produced, and installed by an experienced resurfacer. Starting with poorly made materials, which are also installed incorrectly, makes more work and expense down the track. 

We source our materials from quality and local manufacturers as well as our in-house professionals which will install a well-made product.  

For example, we use engineered stone, which is an excellent choice for busy kitchens since it has heat resistant qualities of up to 150 degrees. This means you’re getting quality produced materials as well as the construction and installation being correctly done by our friendly team. 

 

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 

 

Please note that this is a guideline only, subject to change depending on your specific requirements and needs. 

 

You can check out our helpful resource online about kitchen benchtop replacement costs in more detail. 

 

Common FAQs 

 

Can you resurface a laminate benchtop?  

Yes absolutely, it is possible to resurface a laminate benchtop. At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms, we offer varied options for, including.: 

Covering over the current surface with a fresh layer of laminate. 

For a more upscale appearance an engineered stone overlay can be applied  

The new material is usually applied after the previous surface has been cleaned, prepared, and then finished with the proper sealants or coatings. 

 

Can you put new countertops on old countertops? 

Yes this can be done, 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 title, work well with this type of resurfacing technique.  

This involves: 

1. Cleaning and prepping the old surface to ensure it is ready for the new surface 

2. Fixing any damages or unevenness to the benchtop 

3. Applying the new material, this could be laminate, acrylic or engineered stone. 

4. Sealing off and completing the new surface 

By using this specific technique, you can gain a brand new look to your kitchen within a budget, without the entire removal of the old bench. 

 

Benchtop Resurfacing at GT Kitchens and Bathrooms 

At GT Kitchens and Bathrooms, we specialise in benchtop resurfacing which can revitalise your kitchen,  

with a cost effective solution. We can provide you with the opportunity for a kitchen makeover Sydney, without the typical disruptions of a whole kitchen renovation, within a short and convenient time frame.  

 

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. 

 

Contact us for a free consultation, we’re ready to help you create the dream kitchen and help revitalise your space today. 

Vicki Chung

Project Manager & Designer