Glass benchtops look like the “Lamborghini’’ of kitchen surfaces — sleek, shiny, dramatic, and guaranteed to make visitors ask, “Wow… where did you get that?”
But when Sydney homeowners start researching glass benchtops, the first question that pops up (right after checking the price) is always:

“Is it actually safe?”

Let’s break it down properly, with real-world examples drawn from kitchen upgrades across suburbs like Chatswood, Turramurra, Epping, Marrickville, Ashfield, Mascot, Castle Hill and more.

Spoiler: Yes, glass benchtops can be installed safely — but only when done properly.
And “properly” means licensed installers, correct materials, and smart design choices.

Why Homeowners Love Glass Benchtops

Glass isn’t just for windows anymore. In modern Sydney kitchens — especially architect-designed homes in areas like Turramurra, Wahroonga, Balmain and Alexandria — glass is becoming a showpiece feature.

Benefits that make glass so popular:

• Ultra-modern appearance – perfect for contemporary apartments in Zetland, Wolli Creek, Waterloo or CBD high-rise living.

• Non-porous and hygienic – no mould, no bacteria, no food stains.

• Customisable colours – from neutral whites to dramatic metallics, often chosen by homeowners in design-focused suburbs like Surry Hills or Paddington.

• Heat and scratch resistance – when using proper toughened glass.

But with all that beauty comes the common fear:
“What if it cracks or shatters while I’m chopping onions like Gordon Ramsay?”

Let’s look at the science.

Is Glass Benchtop Installation Safe?

Yes — when using the right type of glass and the right installer, glass benchtops are extremely safe.

1. Use Toughened (Tempered) Glass Only

A benchtop must be made from toughened glass, not standard household glass.

Toughened glass is:

• Heated to around 600°C, then rapidly cooled

• Up to 5 times stronger than standard glass

• Designed to fragment into dull, pebble-shaped pieces if it ever breaks (very unlikely)

This is the same type of glass used for:

• Shower screens

• Balcony balustrades

• High-traffic commercial spaces

• Car windows

If it’s safe enough for those, it’s safe for chopping vegetables.

2. Correct Thickness Matters

The typical safe thickness for kitchen benchtops is 19mm or more.
Some premium installations even go to 24mm, especially in family homes in Castle Hill, Strathfield or Hornsby, where kitchens take daily heavy use.

Never install thin glass.
Cheap online suppliers offering “10mm decorative glass benchtops” should raise every red flag possible.

3. Supported Substructure

Glass needs a proper support system, such as:

• Plywood base

• Steel brackets

• Engineered joinery support

In many Sydney homes — especially older terraces in Newtown, Annandale or Paddington — cabinet carcasses are uneven or slightly out of shape from decades of settling.
A licensed renovator ensures the benchtop sits on a perfectly level, reinforced base, preventing stress cracks.

4. Professional Installation Only

A safe installation must be carried out by:

• A licensed kitchen renovator

• Experienced installers who regularly handle glass products

• Professionals familiar with Australian Standards AS1288 for glass in buildings

DIY or handyman installation?
That’s like letting your cousin drive your Tesla home from a party after “just one drink”…
Just don’t.

Common Safety Concerns — Answered Clearly

“Will it break easily?”

Not if it’s toughened glass. You can place heavy pots, chopping boards, or appliances without worrying.

“Can I put a hot pot directly on it?”

Toughened glass handles heat well — but sudden extreme temperature shocks can sometimes cause stress cracks.
Better to use a trivet.
(Your benchtop will thank you.)

“What about scratches?”

Toughened glass is resistant, but not invincible. Knives can scratch it if used carelessly.
A chopping board is your best friend.

“Can kids damage it?”

In family homes from Ryde to Kellyville to Randwick, glass benchtops work fine.
Everyday use — even from energetic kids — is not an issue.

“Does it stain?”

No. Zero. Never.
Glass is completely non-porous.

“Is the price worth it?”

It depends.
If you want a statement kitchen — especially in premium suburbs like Mosman, Vaucluse or Hunters Hill — glass is a brilliant investment.
If you want the most economical option, engineered stone or laminate might be better.

Where Glass Benchtops Work Best

1. High-end modern kitchens

Perfect for minimalist homes or designer apartments in Barangaroo, Rhodes, Zetland and Chatswood.

2. Feature islands

A glass island with LED lighting turns an ordinary kitchen into a “wow moment”.

3. Splashbacks + matching benchtops

Some homeowners in Ryde and Eastwood choose matching glass splashbacks and benchtops for a clean, unified look.

4. Smaller kitchens

Glass reflects light and makes compact spaces in Marrickville, Redfern and Burwood look bigger.

Tips to Keep Your Glass Benchtop Safe and Long-Lasting

Use chopping boards

Not for safety — just to avoid micro-scratches.

Wipe with soft cloths only

Avoid anything abrasive.

Avoid placing scorching pans directly from the stove

Use trivets to prevent sudden temperature shock.

Inspect supports annually

Particularly in older Federation or terrace homes around Glebe, Summer Hill and Stanmore where cabinetry may move slightly with seasonal humidity.

Why Professional Installation Matters (Especially in Sydney)

Sydney homes are not standard boxes.
We have:

• Heritage terraces with quirky geometry

• Post-war bungalows needing reinforcement

• High-rise apartments with strict strata requirements

• Modern large homes with hidden services running behind cabinetry

A professional renovation team understands how to:

• Measure glass precisely

• Create correct cut-outs for sinks or cooktops

• Reinforce cabinetry

• Deliver without cracking

• Install under AS1288 safety standards

• Handle strata permissions if required

At MB9 Australia Pty Ltd, we often install glass benchtops in complex kitchen layouts — curved island edges, waterfall sides, under-lit glass blocks — the whole works.
So yes, it can definitely be done safely… when done properly.

Final Verdict: Are Glass Benchtops Safe?

Absolutely.
Glass benchtops are one of the strongest, most hygienic and modern countertop options available — as long as they are toughened, correctly installed, and properly supported.

If you’re renovating in Sydney and want something bold, stylish, and guaranteed to make visitors say, “This kitchen is amazing!” — glass is an excellent choice.

Thinking About a Kitchen Renovation in Sydney?

If you’re considering glass benchtops — or comparing options like engineered stone, porcelain slab, timber, stainless steel or concrete — getting advice from a licensed renovator makes the process much easier.

For renovation guidance, project management, design ideas and expert installation across Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au to learn more about Kitchen Renovation Chatswood, bathroom renovation and home renovation services from MB9 Australia Pty Ltd.