Laminate countertops have gained a lot of attention in the home-improvement / interior-design niche due to their amazing affordability and ease-of-use. They are interpreted as a trendy, kitchen-designing choice and are finding an increasing application in the domestic and commercial space. Some of the prominent benefits of using a laminate countertop are:

Undemanding Maintenance

Most laminate countertops are resistant to staining—a major issue associated with the kitchen space. These laminates are manufactured not to retain moisture, vapors or grime. Thus, cleaning a laminate countertop is easier. You don’t need to buy expensive cleaners to maintain the shine of such surfaces—a daily wipe with a moist cloth is considered sufficient.

A heavily used laminate countertop surface might retain some stains over time, but these can be easily scrubbed-off with a lightly-bristled brush, without worrying about scratching the surface. The high synthetic content of laminates translates into an increased ability to repel scratches. Unless, a sharp object is forcefully rubbed into the laminate surface or the general handling is extremely negligent, chances of scratching the surface are minimal.

Greater Affordability

This is perhaps the most significant reason for making laminates a popular countertop choice across the world. Even the most upgraded of laminate countertops will cost less than the basic version of other countertop materials.

However, this shouldn’t be interpreted as laminates being a ‘cheap’ alternative. Laminates are merely more economical than other countertop choices without compromising the performance or the appearance of the countertop. Further, the process of tending minor repairs like redoing the edges of a laminate countertop is inexpensive and undemanding.

Appreciable Safety-of-Use

Laminates have a nonporous surface and thus, they cannot absorb or retain water. The absence of moisture-seepage makes them an excellent choice for the kitchen since this feature negates issues like growth of fungus and other type of bacteria or mold/mildew.

Since harsh, chemical cleaners aren’t needed to clean the laminate countertops, exposure to harmful chemical residue is eliminated. In addition, the manufacturing process doesn’t involve any chemicals that pose a risk of leaching upon gradual aging of the laminate.

Multiple Aesthetic Possibilities

When choosing a laminate countertop, your vendor will provide you with samples or images to choose from, i.e. laminate strips exhibiting various colors and pattern combinations. A wide variety of colors is available, as nearly any pattern could become a laminate countertop. Finishes on laminates include possibilities that vary in the grain pattern, the degree of sheen and the color density.

Edging Options

Homeowners can choose from three edging choices for laminate countertops, rolled, squared or angled edges. Rolled edges render a softer appearance compared to squared and angled edges that help to create a more defined look.

Additional Information:

• Wilsonart Laminate