Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop in South Africa
Whether you're remodeling your home or designing a brand-new kitchen, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing the right countertop. It’s not just about looks—it’s also about how it performs, how much it costs, and More"> and how well it suits your lifestyle.
In South Africa, you’ve got a wide variety of countertop types to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. At DRT Laminating, we specialize in custom countertop solutions right here in Johannesburg, and we’ve worked with everything from classic laminates to rich hardwoods. So, let’s break down the options and help you find the perfect fit.
1. Laminate Countertops (Postform and Flat-Pressed)
Best for: Budget-friendly makeovers, rental homes, family kitchens
Why it’s popular: Affordable, low-maintenance, and available in tons of styles and colours
Laminate countertops—like the postform tops and flat-pressed countertops we manufacture at DRT Laminating—are a go-to choice for many South African homeowners. They’re durable, moisture-resistant, and easy to clean. Plus, they can mimic the look of wood, stone, or even marble at a fraction of the price.
Postform Tops: These are rolled edges that create a smooth, seamless finish. DRT offers bullnose (delta) and squareline profiles, both of which are stylish and practical.
Flat-Pressed Tops: These are great for modern kitchens with minimalist lines and clean finishes.
2. Granite Countertops
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Best for: Luxury kitchens, high-end homes
Why it’s popular: Natural beauty, heat-resistant, long lifespan
Granite has long been associated with premium kitchens in South Africa. It’s hard, heat-resistant, and comes in stunning natural patterns. However, it can be quite pricey and requires occasional sealing to maintain its look. Granite is often seen as an investment piece that adds value to your home.
While DRT Laminating doesn’t manufacture granite tops, we often work with clients who want to mix materials—laminate on one side and granite on the island, for example—for a cost-effective balance of style and function.
3. Wooden Countertops (Hardwood and Veneer)
Best for: Rustic or farmhouse-style kitchens, eco-conscious homeowners
Why it’s popular: Warmth, natural beauty, great for food prep areas
Wooden countertops add warmth and character that other materials just can’t replicate. Hardwood kitchen tops are solid, long-lasting, and can be sanded and refinished when needed. DRT Laminating crafts custom wooden tops that blend beautifully with contemporary or traditional kitchen designs.
Keep in mind: wood needs regular maintenance—think oiling and sealing—to keep it from warping or staining over time.
4. Quartz Countertops (Engineered Stone)
Best for: Busy households, modern kitchens
Why it’s popular: Non-porous, durable, and consistent in colour and texture
Quartz countertops are made from engineered stone and offer a sleek, non-porous surface that’s both stylish and stain-resistant. While quartz tends to be on the higher end in terms of pricing, it’s become a popular alternative to granite in South African kitchens.
As with granite, DRT doesn’t manufacture quartz but can supply laminate or wooden options to complement quartz installations, especially for designers looking to mix materials.
5. Concrete Countertops
Best for: Industrial-style kitchens, custom design projects
Why it’s popular: Totally customizable, edgy, urban look
Concrete might not be the first thing you think of when imagining your kitchen, but it’s gaining ground in trendy homes and cafes. It’s incredibly durable and can be moulded to any shape. Just note that it requires sealing and careful installation to prevent cracking.
So, What’s the Most Popular Countertop in South Africa?
Without a doubt, laminate countertops remain one of the most widely used options thanks to their affordability, design flexibility, and ease of maintenance. At DRT Laminating, we’ve seen a huge demand for postform laminate countertops, especially in Johannesburg where homeowners want that balance of style and practicality.
Why Choose DRT Laminating?
Located in West Turffontein, DRT Laminating offers a range of kitchen countertops designed to meet the needs of South African homeowners and industry professionals. Whether you’re into the sleek, affordable appeal of laminate, the natural charm of wood, or want to pair materials for a custom look, we’re here to help you bring your kitchen vision to life.