Worktop Joins

[hope90]

Is it a good idea to join two worktops together in the middle of the cut out for a hob that sits in the work top? I'm thinking aesthetically that's the best place as the join will only span a few cm, rather than the whole depth of the worktop, but i'm not sure if the hob will be as secure as it would be in a solid piece of work top.

[Old_Geezer]

I would doubt it. I wasn't allowed to have the sink drainer in the corner because there was a join there. I'd expect the same sort of issues for a hob, mid worktops.

[hope90]

arrr, i thought this would be the case. It's a plain white work top and i'm worried it will look rubbish where they join together

[The Builder]

Strength isn't really a great problem, Hope. Worktops are always supported by the cabinets underneath. It's the cabinet that does all the work.

No, the problem with the way you want to join them, is that a hob cut-out leaves only a couple of inches of uncut worktop in front and at the back of the hob.

Although recessed worktop clamps (underneath) are perfectly strong enough, a "butt" of only around 2 inches wide could eventually cause the top to bend and distort. It's a weak point. It may well be fine, but I really couldn't guarantee it.

A properly cut butt joint (using a router) should be almost invisible (well, near enough for us humans anyway.)
If possible, place the butt either to the left or the right of anywhere where you do most standing and preparing food, so that it's not immediately in your eyeline.
Sometimes it's good practice to overbuy worktop lengths so that they don't dictate positioning. Even if some gets thrown away.

[Mexican18]

Great answer Builder!

[teacake44]

Also top tip ( if you don't already know) where you cut and join, brush a good quality (clear silicone) too the raw edges before you pull the joints together, the more you allow to soak in the better, this will protect from any damp/ water that may find its way through the joint. :0)

[The Builder]

Thanks Mex ;o))))

TC, that's a good point. Always remember to coat around the cut made for the hob or sink as well.

Silicone/PVA/adhesive... anything that's waterproof.

[hope90]

Thanks so much for such a detailed answer builder.
I won't place the hob in the middle of the join then. Do you really think the join wont be obvious? this is the worktop i'm considering(it looks much better in real life)
https://www.diy.com/departments/28mm-matt-white-laminate-post-formed-kitchen-worktop-l-2400mm/3663602636151_BQ.prd

i have found one that i wont have to join length ways, but it's gonna cost £300 more,i'm not sure if its worth spending extra