5 Pros of Laminate Counters
Laminate countertop has become very popular over the last few years. These kitchen surfaces have a shiny laminate appearance that looks great and can withstand high temperatures. Because of these qualities, laminate countertops have risen in popularity. If you are considering installing a new kitchen countertop, here are some benefits that you may find it useful to consider.
Laminate Countertops Are Low Maintenance: Of all the kitchen surfaces available, laminate tops are among the easiest to keep clean. Although laminate countertops aren’t as durable as stainless steel or stone counters, they’re still moderately resistant to virtually all forms of damage. In terms of heat, laminate countertops aren’t even moderately resistant to scratches! Keep in mind, laminate countertops aren’t just plastic anymore; they’re actually cloth covered metal. So, stains can easily be prevented if addressed quickly.
Laminate Countertops Have the Look and Feel of Natural Stone: Laminate tops do resemble many different natural stone finishes such as granite, marble, soapstone and limestone. You can get these finishes in a wide array of colors such as beige, chocolate, brick red, and almost any other color you could imagine. You can even get them in patterns such as stripes, honeycombs, and reliefs. One of the most unique features of laminate countertops is that you can choose from a wide variety of textures including hardwoods, softwoods, and various combinations of both.
Laminate Countertops Require Little to No Maintenance: Because they require no sealing, staining, or grout maintenance is generally not necessary. The one time that it might become necessary is if you want to stain or paint your countertop. But, with proper care, laminate countertops can last for decades. Also, because they are sealed, they help to prevent heat and cold from seeping in. So, if you want to cut down on your energy costs and save on your cooling and heating bills, then you should definitely consider installing this type of countertop.
Laminate Countertops Require Little Repair or Maintenance: Because they’re sealed, you won’t need to seal and repair any damage unless it’s severe. However, because they require very little maintenance you don’t have to replace your laminate counters unless they look ugly. Most people are impressed with their beautiful new laminate countertops when they show them off. If you need to seal up a few spots, you can easily do so with sealers or with some water based sealants. When it comes to stains, if you don’t wipe them down and let them dry before using them again you will never have to worry about re-sealing or repairing your laminate counters.
Overall, laminate counters are great for virtually any kitchen style. Of course, the pros do have a bit of a down side, as laminate doesn’t stand up to heat very well, and they do crack. Also, they do dent slightly if they’re not sealed properly, but most companies offer a lifetime guarantee on their products. As you can see, there isn’t much you need to know when it comes to deciding which laminate countertop is right for you. In the end, your decision will be based upon your own personal preferences and budget.