While laminate countertops are popular, are they really the best material for your home? Before making your choice, we’ve outlined some of the most important things to consider when deciding between granite and quartz countertops over laminate ones.
WHAT ARE LAMINATE COUNTERTOPS?
Laminate countertops typically consist of plastic fused with kraft paper or particleboard. Laminate intends to create the appearance of “expense” without the cost. Laminate countertops often imitate wood, marble, and other opulent surface materials.
WHAT ARE GRANITE AND QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS?
Granite is a naturally beautiful and sturdy stone that is stain-resistant, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant. In addition, granite comes in a wide range of colors, making it a versatile option for your kitchen’s style or color palette.
Quartz is an engineered stone with tiny crystals bound with resin to reinforce the material’s resilience. Some advantages of quartz include its durability, low maintenance, and scratch resistance.
LAMINATE COUNTERTOPS: THE CONS
There are several things to consider before choosing laminate countertops. Here are some of the most common:
Easy to Break
Laminate countertops are made from plastic and particleboard (or kraft paper). The consequence of this is that material is easy to crack, especially around the edges.
Looks Cheap
Surfaces like marble and wood get their characteristic appearance from more than just the surface. But unfortunately, laminate countertops are merely printed patterns of the real thing.
Do Not Add Value
With the above downsides, this can make laminate countertops less than desirable. This can dwindle their resale value and make it difficult to promote on the market after use.
GRANITE & QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS: THE ADVANTAGES
The advantages of granite and quartz countertops are tenfold. Here are a few of the most prominent ones:
Better at Handling Heat
If you place a hot pan on a laminate countertop, it will undoubtedly leave a mark. Granite countertops are heat resistant and heat-friendly.
More Durable
Granite and quartz are made to take the abuse of a typical kitchen setting for a very long time. The same isn’t true of laminate, which will have to be replaced at some point. Granite and quartz are not only more functional, but they are built to last.
Easy to Take Care Of
Caring for granite and quartz countertops is a breeze due to their scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean surfaces.
Adds Value to Home
Not only is granite and quartz a beautiful alternative to other surface materials, but it also doesn’t depreciate like laminate. In fact, a good granite countertop will add value to the home as it ages.
GRANITE AND QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS: COSTS TO CONSIDER
Your final decision should include suggestions regarding material, fabrication, and installation. We suggest that you consider the following items when counting up the final cost:
- Type of material chosen
- Grade of the granite or quartz
- Color and pattern
- Preferred edges (eased, bullnose, half-bull, ogee, etc.)
- The complexity of labor to fabricate
GRANITE AND QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS VERSUS LAMINATE: FINAL THOUGHTS
Laminate countertops cost between $1,000 – $2,000, considering material and installation fees. While the consumer advantage to laminate is cost, given its resale value and quick depreciation, the adage “you get what you pay for” rings true.
We don’t mean to say that you should never buy laminate, but now that you have a clearer picture of the pros and cons, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision on what is best for your home.
CONTACT BAD LIZARD GRANITE & QUARTZ FOR YOUR GRANITE AND QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
You’ve done the research. You’ve picked the samples. You’re ready to implement your kitchen renovation ideas –– but you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed to do it alone. Don’t worry.
Our Bad Lizard Granite & Quartz team is here to help make your dream a reality. When it comes to countertop fabrication and installation, we are some of the best in West Virginia.
If you have any questions, give us a call at 304-472-6483 or contact us online today.