Tips on Getting a Laminate Kitchen Countertop
Posted on: 3 November 2020
If you're looking for an attractive and durable counter when undergoing kitchen renovations, you could consider laminate which has reigned popular for decades. Consider the following tips to help you make an informed decision.
How They're Made
To produce a laminate counter, manufactures combine wood, paper, and resin in a unique way. The inner core often consists of particleboard. Decorative papers, printed with a design or photograph, glue to the outer side of the board to create a decorative surface. Finally, a resin laminate covers the top, forming a tough hard plastic.
You'll have a wide choice of designs as the decorative papers display various hues, graphic designs, or photographs of natural substances such as granite. As printing techniques become more sophisticated, laminate counters become more attractive and lifelike when mimicking natural substances.
Installation
You won't suffer too much inconvenience when installing a laminate bench. They come in pre-cut lengths, which may work in your kitchen. Otherwise, the laminate can be cut and fitted on-site, often within a day. Other materials, such as stone, require an initial measurement of the area, and the benchtop then needs to be carved, the overall process of which can take weeks.
Backsplash
With a laminate counter, you can either install a contrasting splashback in tiles or stone—or continue the laminate design across the splashback area. You might be able to insert one integrated piece that covers both surfaces for a smooth effect. This way, you'll eliminate the join between the two planes.
Durability
Laminate counters form hard non-porous surfaces that can cope with the cutting, washing, and food preparation of daily kitchen life. As the plastic top layer isn't covered with tiny holes or pores, it's unlikely to stain. However, laminate can scratch. If spilled water pools, moisture can infiltrate the edges and delaminate the plastic and cause peeling. If that happens, the particleboard inside can warp or suffer from water exposure if you don't fix the issue. Also, laminate will scorch if you place hot pans on the surface, so you'll need to use trivets or make use of a stainless steel sink area.
Maintenance
A major benefit of a laminate counter is that you won't have to fuss over maintenance. You can clean it with your preferred cleaner, though avoid bleach, and you don't have to bother with processes to maintain the surface like other high-maintenance benches. For example, wood requires regular oiling or sealing, as does a natural stone. Ask your supplier about repair kits that can minimise scratches on the laminate.
Contact kitchen renovation contractors to learn more.
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