With all the fuss lately about granite, Silestone and Corian, whatever happened to the virtues of a laminate countertop?
Each material for countertops has its own advantages and disadvantages. Until you look at the pros and cons of laminate counters, don’t write them off just yet.
Three definite advantages to laminate counters are: ease of installation, cost and choice of colors and patterns.
Cost
Laminate is one of the least expensive options in counters. It is also one of the most widely used materials. The cost is definitely appealing when considering your kitchen remodeling budget. Not only is the low initial cost appealing, if you want to change the counters to a new color or pattern several years down the road, it is relatively affordable to do so. You wouldn’t be so happy to regularly change a granite counter that cost thousands if not tens of thousands of dollars. If you like to change your décor often, laminate kitchen counters are definitely a choice to consider.
Ease of Installation
Installation of laminates is relatively easy compared to the other types. Do-it-yourselfers can easily take on the task. New laminates can be applied directly onto existing laminate surfaces with some cleaning and sanding. New sheets can be simply glued onto the prepared surface. If your existing counters are in rough shape, replacing the whole countertop with pre-mounted laminate counters is easy too. If you aren’t so handy, paying a professional installer to install your laminate counter is much less expensive than for granite or marble.
Choice of Colors and Patterns
Because laminate has been a popular option for so many years, the number of choices available is enormous. Many finishes have been made to look like more expensive counter options such as granite and marble. Finding a color to match your kitchen will be easy. You don’t have to go to a specialty store either; most home improvement centers carry large selections.
There are several disadvantages to consider. The surface may become damaged with excessive heat. Open flame will melt or scorch the surface. Laminates can be scratched relatively easy. Because the color is only on the surface layer of the material, when you accidentally cut the surface you may be able to see the color of the under layer show through making the cut more noticeably visible. Cutting food on the surface is a definite no-no.
The top of the surface is resistant to water, however if water happens to get between the top layer and the particle board or plywood underneath, warping can occur. There are measures you can take to help protect against these problems. Caulking or sealing the edges will help prevent moisture damage.
With a little care and protection, laminate countertops can last a good many years. Always consider the pros and cons of all possible materials in your price range before reaching a decision. Don’t discount any one of them before you’ve seen all the facts.