Laminate is the most popular countertop material on the market today.  Not only is it a reliable and low cost option, it comes in a limitless number of colors and designs.  Laminate countertops are also very easy to clean, requiring little maintenance. 

For those with a tight budget, choosing laminate countertops is an economical decision that offers an endless variety of colors, designs, patterns and finishes, while maintaining a high quality. Laminates have a good cost to durability ratio. One drawback of laminate is that it lacks the natural beauty found in natural stone, but overall, it is a strong choice.  

Laminate is a synthetic material made up of several layers, which are sheets of kraft paper (similar to the material of grocery bags).  Although more expensive, solid-color laminates are made of a colored plastic throughout and do not have dark edges. 

Cost: About $5 to $20 per square foot.

Weighing the Options

Pros:
- Limitless variety of color and design.
- Can replicate the look of granite, solid surface, hardwood, among others, providing a more upscale look at a cheaper price.
- Requires easy upkeep, and is easy to clean up.
- Inexpensive, due to reduced labor and less expensive materials compared to other countertop surfaces.
- Allows for decorative edge treatments.
Cons:
- The multiple layers make it difficult to repair chips and scratches.
- Layers can break apart due to hot items and water seeping into the seams.
- Requires use of cutting boards.
- Cannot be cleaned with abrasives.
- Seams show and finishing the front edge can be expensive.
- Not stain-proof.

Enjoy Home Makeovers?

Laminate surfaces have an added bonus for those who like to redo the look of their house more often.  These surfaces can be resurfaced easily at a reasonable cost opposed to a solid surface, stone, or wood countertops. 

Source: Express Countertops, www.expresscountertops.com