Laminate is the most popular countertop material on the market today. Not only is it a reliable and inexpensive option, but it comes in an unlimited number of colors and designs. Laminate countertops are offered by a variety of manufacturers.
Laminate countertops are also very easy to clean and require little maintenance. For those on a tight budget, choosing laminate countertops is an affordable decision that offers an endless variety of colors, designs, patterns, and finishes while maintaining high quality. Laminates have a good cost-durability ratio. One drawback to laminate is that it lacks the natural beauty found in natural stone, but overall, it’s a good choice.
Laminate is a synthetic material made up of several layers, which are sheets of craft paper (similar to the material of supermarket bags). Although more expensive, solid colored laminates are made of colored plastic and do not have dark edges.
Cost: About $5 to $20 per square foot.
Laminate surfaces have an added bonus for those who like to refresh the look of their home more often. These surfaces can be easily renovated at a reasonable cost compared to solid surface, stone or wood countertops.
Laminate care and durability
Laminate countertops are durable and easy to maintain. If cared for well, laminate can last 20 years or more, and some contemporary laminate countertop manufacturers offer a 40-year warranty on their product. Generally, laminate is easy to clean. For most spills, a damp cloth and mild soap will suffice. For tougher stains, a paste made from baking soda and a mild household cleaner can do the trick. The laminate is also impact resistant.
The key to maintaining quality laminate is maintenance. Laminate can be easily scratched and scraped, so do not cut or place anything hot directly on its surfaces. One option to alleviate this problem is to lay some heat-resistant tile or material on a laminate countertop, especially near the oven or stove. To better camouflage scratches and scuffs, choose a matte finish.
Don’t be put off by your vulnerability to damage. New methods of repairing and resurfacing damaged laminates are done at a much lower price than in the past. If your laminate needs to be repaired by a professional, the job can be done in a few hours.
