How to avoid these common mistakes when replacing your kitchen worktops

A granite worktop is delivered to a customer's home
(Image credit: Getty Images / Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography)

If you’re aiming to spruce up your kitchen at a reasonable cost and without great upheaval, then replacing your kitchen worktops would be a smart option to explore.

Most kitchen worktops remain in good condition for at least a decade after installation, but their longevity varies depending on material, quality and usage. Some styles of worktop go out of fashion; some materials are prone to wear and staining; and sometimes, you just need a change.

Headshot of Laminam UK Managing Director, Gavin Shaw
Gavin Shaw

Gavin Shaw is MD of Laminam UK, a producer of high-quality ceramic slabs for kitchen worktops and other applications. Shaw has over 20 years’ experience as a company director in the stone surface industry, with expertise across porcelain, quartz and natural stone.

Clive Holland headshot
Clive Holland

Clive Holland is the former host of Cowboy Trap on the BBC. Now a broadcaster on Fix Radio, the UK’s only national radio station for builders and tradespeople, Holland is one of the UK’s leading property and DIY experts.

Pete Wise

Pete Wise is a freelance writer and keen DIYer from Leeds. Pete's tool reviews have featured in titles including Homebuilding & Renovating, Ideal Home and The Independent. He also writes features and news articles for publications such as The Guardian, BBC Good Food and T3. When he isn't busy writing, Pete can often be found at libraries, pubs and live music venues. He finds tile-cutting strangely zen.