Worktop Upstands: Everything You Need to Know

When designing a kitchen, the details make all the difference. Worktop upstands are a simple yet effective addition that enhances both the style and functionality of your space. These vertical strips sit along the back edge of your worktops, creating a smooth transition between the countertop and the wall.

Available in materials like marble, quartz, porcelain, and granite, they come in a variety of sizes and colours to complement any kitchen decor. Whether your style is modern, traditional, or minimalist, they offer an effortless way to elevate your kitchen design.

Understanding Worktop Upstands

They’re more than just a decorative feature—they serve a practical purpose. Typically measuring 60-120mm in height, these strips act as a barrier between your worktop and the wall, protecting the wall from splashes, spills, and daily wear. By sealing gaps between the countertop and the wall, they create a polished, cohesive look.

Made from the same material as your worktops or in a contrasting finish, they offer versatility and a professional touch. They hide imperfections, make cleaning easier, and add a subtle yet impactful design element that ties the kitchen together.

Adding them can be a great way to give it a fresh look. Here are some benefits of installing them in your kitchen:

✅ | They Hide Imperfections

If your walls aren’t perfectly square or straight, they can help to hide any imperfections. They create a neat, watertight connection at the back of the worktop, preventing spillages from seeping down behind the units. This also protects the walls from water damage and stains.

✅ | They Add Style

They come in a variety of materials and finishes, making it easy to match your worktops and create a cohesive look in your kitchen. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional style, there is an upstand to suit your taste.

✅ | Easy to Clean

They’re easy to clean and maintain. They can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild detergent to keep them looking like new. This is especially important in the kitchen where spills and stains are common.

✅ | Affordable

They’re an affordable way to upgrade your kitchen without breaking the bank. They are available in a range of materials, including laminate and wood, so you can choose the option that best fits your budget.

✅ | They Protect Walls

They also protect your walls from damage. They act as a barrier between the worktop and the wall, preventing water damage and stains.

✅ | Worktop Upstands Improve Hygiene

They can help to improve the hygiene in your kitchen. By creating a barrier between the worktop and the wall, they stop dirt and bacteria from getting trapped, making it easier to keep your kitchen clean and hygienic.

Overall, they’re a great addition to any kitchen. They are affordable, stylish, and practical, making them a must-have for any home renovation project.

Materials Used for Worktop Upstands

When it comes to choosing materials, there are a variety of options to consider. In a new kitchen, they tend to match the worktop material and are installed together, but in retro-fit scenarios a stone upstand will bring various benefits. Here are some of the most popular materials we use:

Marble Upstands

Marble Upstands are known for elegance and beauty. They’re a popular choice for a unique look, high durability and resistance to heat and scratches. However, marble is a porous material that requires regular sealing to prevent staining.

Granite Upstands

Granite is another natural stone that’s popular. It’s extremely durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. It’s also available in a wide range of colours and patterns, making Granite Upstands a versatile option for any kitchen.

Quartz Upstands

Quartz is an engineered stone that’s composed of natural quartz crystals and resin. It’s a good choice thanks to its durability and low maintenance. It’s also available in various colours and patterns, making Quartz Upstands easy to match with any kitchen design.

Dekton Upstands

Dekton is a newer material that’s gaining popularity, made from a mixture of raw materials including glass, porcelain, and quartz. It’s extremely durable and resistant to scratches, heat, and stains. It’s also available in a wide range of colours and patterns, making Dekton Upstands a versatile option for any kitchen.

Silestone Upstands

Silestone is another engineered material that’s composed of natural quartz crystals and resin. It’s a popular choice for worktops and upstands due to its durability and low maintenance. It, too, is available in a wide range of colours and patterns, making Silestone Upstands easy to match with any kitchen design.

Porcelain Upstands

Porcelain is a ceramic material known for its durability and resistance to scratches, heat, and stains. It’s a popular choice because of its low maintenance and wide range of colours and patterns. Porcelain Upstands will complement any look and add an easy way to keep splashes from damaging walls.

When you’re picking materials, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and design. By taking these factors into account, you can pick the perfect material for your kitchen that will look great and stand the test of time.

Choosing the Right Worktop Upstand for Your Kitchen

Selecting the perfect upstand enhances your kitchen’s style while protecting your walls from splashes and spills. Here’s what to consider making the right choice:

Colour and Finish

The colour and finish of your upstand should complement both your worktops and overall kitchen design. For busy worktop patterns, opt for a plain upstand to maintain balance. Conversely, if your worktops are simple, a patterned or textured upstand can add visual interest and depth.

Matching Your Kitchen Design

Consider your kitchen’s style when choosing an upstand. For a modern kitchen, sleek, glossy finishes pair well with contemporary designs. In contrast, traditional kitchens benefit from textured or matte finishes that add character and warmth.

Style Options

Upstands come in a variety of styles to suit your design preferences. You can pick seamless ones that match your worktops for a cohesive look or bold options that serve as a design feature. Whether you want your upstand to blend in or make a statement, there’s a style to match your vision.

Take your time to explore the options and select an upstand that aligns with your worktops, kitchen design, and personal taste. The right choice will elevate your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics, creating a space you’ll love to spend time in.

Purchasing Worktop Upstands

Adding them to your kitchen worktops is a simple way to create a seamless, cohesive finish that enhances both style and functionality. At MGD, we supply and fit them as part of your kitchen worktop installation, offering a convenient solution when you purchase your stone worktops from us, but if you’re retro-fitting, here’s some simple tips to keep in mind.

Why Choose Upstands?

They’re an optional feature that adds a polished touch to your kitchen while protecting your walls from spills and splashes. Available in various heights—such as 100mm, 70mm, and 50mm—they can be tailored to suit the height of your wall units and your overall kitchen design.

Material Options

The material plays a key role in achieving a unified look. We offer matching upstands crafted from the same premium materials as our worktops, or a range of retro-fit options including stunning marble and granite designs. Whether your kitchen is traditional or modern, we’ll help you choose the perfect material to match your style.

Expert Installation

Our skilled team ensures flawless installation, delivering a seamless finish that aligns with your kitchen’s design. With our precise fitting and expert care, you’ll enjoy a stylish, durable, and hygienic addition to your space.

Why MGD?

With a wide range of upstand materials and sizes, we make it easy to find the right option for your kitchen. Our upstands are not only visually appealing but also easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical and long-lasting choice.

Contact us today to explore our collection and learn how we can help bring your dream kitchen to life.

Caring for Your Worktop Upstands

Wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove dirt and grime. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface. Clean up spills immediately to prevent stains, especially on porous materials like wood or stone.

Protecting Your Upstands

Although they shield your walls from splashes and spills, they are vulnerable to excessive moisture, particularly along the silicone joints. Dry the area promptly if water accumulates and ensure good ventilation to prevent damage from prolonged dampness.

Maintaining Your Upstands

If they get scratched or damaged, don’t worry. Many materials can be repaired with minimal effort, and replacements are straightforward for severe damage. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for cleaning products and maintenance to extend their lifespan.

Additional Tips

• Inspect Regularly: Check silicone seals periodically for wear or gaps and reseal them if necessary to prevent water ingress.
• Use the Right Products: For natural stone, apply (or get a pro to apply) sealants or finishes as recommended to protect against stains and moisture.
• Avoid Direct Heat: Keep hot items like pans away from them to prevent discolouration or damage.

By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you’ll keep them in excellent shape and ensure they remain a stylish and functional part of your kitchen.

Explore Some Examples of our Recent Work

Check out some of our recent installations where we’ve fitted worktop upstands and where we haven’t to compare and contrast both approaches for yourself, and get an idea how your home might look after partnering with us for installation.

See more projects

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical thickness of worktop upstands?

They’re typically 20mm thick and range in height from 60mm to 150mm. This size effectively prevents water from seeping behind your worktop, protecting your walls from damage.

---

What are some creative design ideas for worktop upstands?

They can be made from the same material as your worktop for a seamless look or from a contrasting material or colour to create a striking design feature. For added interest, consider textured or patterned ones to give your kitchen a unique touch.

---

Are worktop upstands necessary for my kitchen?

While not strictly necessary, they’re highly recommended. They provide an extra layer of protection for your walls against water damage and reduce the need for frequent wall maintenance, such as repainting. They also make cleaning much easier.

---

How do worktop upstands compare to splashbacks?

They serve similar purposes but differ in size and placement. Upstands are smaller and sit directly on the worktop to form a barrier between the worktop and the wall. Splashbacks, (or backsplashes as they’re sometimes known) on the other hand, are larger and cover a wider area of the wall, often used behind sinks or hobs where water and splashes are more frequent.

---

Can worktop upstands be used with any worktop material?

Yes, they can be used with any worktop material, including marble, granite, quartz, porcelain and sintered stone (e.g. Dekton). For a cohesive look, choose one made from the same material or colour as your worktop. For a contrasting look, pair with opposing colours, tonal variations, or patterns that complement the look of your kitchen worktops

---

Where can I find black or white worktop upstands?

You can find them at most kitchen worktop suppliers. We offer bespoke cutting and fitting services for retro-fitted upstands in a wide range of colours and materials. If you purchase your worktops from us, we can also provide matching ones made from the same stone slabs, ensuring a perfect match for your kitchen design.

Conclusion

Worktop upstands add practicality and style to your kitchen or bathroom design. They create a seamless connection between countertops and walls, enhancing the space’s appearance and functionality.

They prevent water and debris from damaging walls, making them a low-maintenance and durable alternative to traditional tiles. Whether you want a sleek modern look or a timeless classic style, you can select from our versatile stone surfaces to find the perfect match for your vision.

High-quality upstands elevate your interior design while protecting your surfaces, delivering long-lasting value. By selecting the right materials and ensuring proper installation, you can transform your kitchen or bathroom into a space that looks beautiful and works flawlessly.

Explore your options and pick the perfect worktop upstand to complete your renovation project. With thoughtful planning and the proper choice, you’ll achieve a flawless finish that lasts for years.

Explore materials Speak to a pro