- Family-Friendly: Since laminate is a solid surface, it’s not porous, and therefore doesn’t absorb bacteria and food spills as some natural stone surfaces do. For a busy, active household, laminate counters are a convenient choice.
- Cost Effective: Drastically more affordable than stone, laminate countertops are a smart option for homeowners looking to renovate on a small budget, and still get great style.
- Low Maintenance: Only soap and water are needed to keep laminate countertops clean. No sealers or special polishes needed, as required by other countertop materials such as stone and quartz.
- Wide Variety of Colors: Popular brands such as Formica and Wilsonart are continuously coming out with new colors, patterns and even materials. Formica recently partnered with home decor guru Jonathan Adler for a fun pattern collection.
- It’s Versatile: Laminate can be cut into pretty much any shape, providing a fantastic solution for rooms with difficult dimensions.
A few additional things to know about Metropolitan’s laminate countertops:
- From our postform inventory we stock a number of colors for quick delivery
- We build custom tops to your job’s specifications from all major brand laminates on furniture board or plywood substrate
- We make custom square edge countertops, available with or without a backsplash
- We fabricate laminate from every vendor, including Formica, Wilsonart, Pionite, Poliform, Nevamar, Arborite, and Lamin-Art
- All custom orders are made with specified product brand
For more check out all of our laminate cabinets here.
Advantages of Laminate Countertops
Affordability of Laminate Cabinets
Laminate countertops continue to be among the most affordable options on the market. Their low cost is not only limited to the purchase price but also reflected in the reduced installation and maintenance expenses.
Design Versatility
Thanks to modern printing technology, laminates now come in an array of designs, colors, and textures. Whether you’re looking for the rich appearance of marble or the rustic charm of butcher block, there’s likely a laminate that meets your design needs.
Customizable Aesthetics of Laminate Cabinetry
The lightweight nature of laminate makes it an excellent option for DIY enthusiasts. Most homeowners can handle the installation themselves with basic tools, saving on the cost of professional installation.
Low-Maintenance Laminate Cabinetry
Unlike natural stone, laminate does not require sealing or special cleaners. Simple daily cleaning with soap and water is sufficient to keep laminate countertops looking new.
Family-Friendly Features of Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops are an excellent choice for families, especially those with young children or frequent kitchen activity. Here’s why they stand out as a practical option for busy households:
Durability Against Daily Wear and Tear
Laminate’s durability makes it well-suited for the rigors of a family kitchen. It resists most scratches and impacts that are common in high-traffic areas. This resilience ensures that even with children using the kitchen as a space for homework, crafts, or snack time, the surfaces remain intact and attractive.
h3>Sanitary Surface for Food Preparation
Laminate countertops offer a non-porous surface, which means they do not harbor bacteria or odors. This characteristic is particularly important in kitchens where food safety and hygiene are priorities. Parents can prepare meals with peace of mind, knowing that the surfaces are easy to sanitize and safe for food contact.
Cost-Effectiveness for Growing Families
The affordability of laminate countertops is especially beneficial for families looking to maximize their home improvement budget. With the cost savings from choosing laminate, families can allocate funds to other areas of their home or family needs, such as creating more functional spaces or updating appliances.
Low Maintenance for Busy Families
For families on the go, the easy maintenance of laminate countertops is a significant advantage. They require only a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild detergent to keep them clean. This ease of maintenance helps parents save time and effort, making it simpler to manage spills and messes quickly.
Considerations Before Choosing Laminate
Durability Concerns
While durable, laminate is less resistant to heat and scratching compared to materials like granite or quartz. Using cutting boards and trivets can help extend the life of your countertops.
Longevity and Repair
Laminate’s lifespan is shorter than that of more robust materials, and damage typically necessitates full replacement, as repairs are seldom feasible without noticeable flaws.
Installation Insights
Installation Process
Installing laminate countertops involves careful measurement and cutting to fit the kitchen layout. Edges and seams must be sealed properly to prevent water damage and delamination.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
For those less experienced with home improvements, hiring a professional can ensure that the countertops are installed correctly and last longer.
Design Trends and Customization
Current Trends
Current trends in laminate design include large-scale patterns and vibrant colors that make a bold statement. Textures that mimic natural stone or wood grains are also popular, providing the look of more expensive materials without the cost.
Customization Options
Custom edges, such as bullnose or ogee, can add a touch of elegance to laminate countertops. Additionally, because laminate is manufactured, it offers consistency in color and pattern that is not always possible with natural materials.
Conclusion: Is Laminate Right for You?
Summarize the key points about laminate countertops, including their benefits and limitations. Encourage readers to consider their budget, lifestyle, and design preferences to determine if laminate is the ideal choice for their home renovation project.