Formica is still used. It's just become easier and cheaper for the average home owner to invest in stone instead. As technology has improved over the years, granite has become easier to fabricate.
But as with many previous trends, Formica is back. In fact, Architectural Digest even ran a story on its re-emergence. So, Formica is actually cool again.
According to Formica Corporation, one of the leading manufacturers of laminate, more consumers than ever are interested in the material—the brand has seen a nearly three times increase in the number of residential laminate samples requested between 2021 and 2023.
Unfortunately, any laminate countertop surface can be cut by sharp knifes, accidentally scorched by hot pans, or chipped. This normal wear and tear, or just out-of-date colors, will eventually require a change in your Formica® countertops.
Again, the most practical way to clean and polish your counter or tabletop is with a dry, clean, non-abrasive microfiber cloth and a little elbow grease. You can also use Hope's Perfect Countertop spray and wipe wax to polish Formica® laminate and give it an extra shine.
AvoidAnce of AbrAsive cleAners/mAteriAls
These can damage the surface finish and make it susceptible to staining Ceramic or other abrasive objects, due to their inherent hard- ness, can cause scratching and premature wearing of laminate surfaces.
With proper care and maintenance, Formica countertops can last for many years. On average, they can have a lifespan of around 10 to 20 years. However, many factors contribute to this, such as the level of use and the care and maintenance practices applied over the years.
They're popular because they're affordable, easy to install and clean, and have an almost limitless number of options. Though it's not as trendy as other countertop types, it's a reliable standard. The only drawback is that Formica isn't as durable as other countertops.
Laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are all essentially the same thing; laminate is the substance, and Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both types are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters and available in a variety of colors and designs.
Affordability: The typical cost per square foot of installed granite may be roughly $120, while Formica® Brand Laminate costs between $14 and $38 per square foot installed. Sink options: Yes, you can have an undermount sink!
Corian (designed by DuPont) was the first solid surface material to appear on the market. It was first sold in 1971 in only one color. The brand still exists and now manufacturers more than 100 colors. The material is stain-resistant due to its non-porous nature, a useful characteristic for a kitchen counter.
Yes, it sure can. I was so excited to find this out! Installing the new laminate right over the old made this project go so much faster than having to build all new countertops from scratch.
Premium edges, patterns, finishes, and higher-end brands will cost more. Formica, a laminate brand that's become so ubiquitous people use it as a catch-all term, is slightly more expensive than other laminates. Formica countertops cost $40 to $80 per square foot on average.
It's super popular today due to the price and number of patterns available. The patterns give laminate the ability to mimic other materials at a cost-effective price. So you could have a marble-looking countertop for cheap. If your budget is tight, a laminate countertop is your best choice.
Yes, you can paint Formica countertops and cabinets. You can paint laminate floors, too.
Conclusion: Laminate Flooring Can Look Stylish
By selecting high-quality products, considering thickness and texture, complementing the flooring with appropriate décor, and ensuring professional installation, you can achieve a stylish and sophisticated look with laminate flooring while staying within your budget.
Paint the Formica countertop either with a roller and a high-density foam roller cover designed for smooth surfaces or by spraying on the paint. Always keep a wet edge as you move along the countertop.
Formica® Laminate is resistant to scratches and impacts under normal use conditions. Use cutting boards chopping blocks or other protective surfaces.
INGESTION: Not likely to occur and not expected to cause a significant toxic response. However, ingestion of dust could cause irritation of the mouth, throat and stomach. If this occurs, rinse mouth with clean water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
On average, laminate countertops can last between 10 and 15 years. However, this can vary depending on the quality of the material, the care and maintenance given, and the use they endure. Some laminate countertops that are of a higher quality and have been installed professionally can last up to 20 years or more.
Price and durability are nearly identical between Wilsonart and Formica. Both offer competitive prices across their standard lines, and their durability is comparable, providing robust surfaces that are scratch, heat, and impact-resistant.
DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads, steel wool, sandpaper, etc. to clean laminate surfaces. These can damage the surface finish and make it susceptible to staining Ceramic or other abrasive objects, due to their inherent hardness, can cause scratching and premature wearing of laminate surfaces.