Labs are busy places. Spills happen. Heavy equipment gets moved around. Chemicals react in unexpected ways. One thing that should never be a problem? The surface you work on. A good laboratory worksurfaces isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance, safety, and longevity.
If you’re setting up a lab or replacing worn-out surfaces, you need materials that can take a beating and still look good years later. Some hold up better than others, so let’s break down the best options.
1. Epoxy Resin – The Classic Workhorse
Epoxy resin has been a lab favourite for years. It’s tough, resistant to heat, and doesn’t flinch when strong acids or solvents are spilt.
- Best For: Chemical labs, research facilities, high-heat environments
- Pros: Handles extreme temperatures, resists most chemicals, won’t soak up spills
- Cons: Heavy, expensive, tricky to install
It’s the kind of surface that shrugs off abuse. This might be your best bet if your work involves heavy-duty chemicals or unpredictable reactions.
2. Phenolic Resin – Lightweight but Tough
If you like the idea of resin but want something lighter, phenolic resin is a solid alternative. It’s moisture-resistant, doesn’t corrode, and protects against bacteria.
- Best For: Wet labs, biotech research, healthcare environments
- Pros: Lighter than epoxy, resists water damage, holds up against harsh disinfectants
- Cons: Not as heat-resistant as epoxy, can scratch under heavy use
For environments where constant cleaning and sterilization are priorities, phenolic resin works great. Just don’t expect it to handle open flames or high heat as well as epoxy does.
3. Stainless Steel – Industrial Strength Meets Easy Cleanup
Stainless steel isn’t just for kitchens. In some labs, it’s the best choice. It’s nearly indestructible, doesn’t stain, and can be cleaned in seconds.
- Best For: Medical labs, food testing, pharmaceutical production
- Pros: Extremely durable, resistant to rust and contamination, easy to sterilize
- Cons: Can dent or scratch; cold surface may not be comfortable for all tasks
For spaces that demand absolute cleanliness, stainless steel is unbeatable. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, but it lasts forever and requires almost no maintenance.
4. High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) – Budget-Friendly and Versatile
Not every lab needs an industrial-strength surface. Sometimes, a more affordable option gets the job done. High-pressure laminate is a great pick for lighter workloads.
- Best For: Educational labs, general-purpose workstations
- Pros: Inexpensive, available in various colours, easy to install
- Cons: Not ideal for high heat or chemical-heavy work, can wear out faster than other options
If your lab doesn’t deal with corrosive chemicals or intense heat, HPL is a practical choice that won’t break the bank.
5. Ceramic – Built to Withstand Extreme Conditions
Ceramic isn’t just for tiles. It makes an incredibly tough work surface, too. It resists heat, scratches, and most chemicals.
- Best For: High-temperature work, specialized research labs
- Pros: Fire-resistant, won’t stain, extremely durable
- Cons: Heavy, expensive, can chip if hit hard
Ceramic is a great choice if your lab involves open flames or frequent exposure to extreme temperatures. Just be careful not to drop heavy equipment on it—it can crack under direct impact.
Final Thoughts
The best laboratory worksurfaces depends on your lab’s specific needs. If you work with harsh chemicals, epoxy resin or polypropylene might be your best bet. Need something easy to sterilize? Stainless steel or phenolic resin could be the way to go.
