In the battle of laminate vs. Formica countertops, there's no clear winner. Formica may have a higher standard of quality than off-brand imitations, but there are other quality brands on the market like WilsonArt or Arborite.
Laminate – No. Hot pans can leave permanent burn marks. Use trivets underneath appliances that get hot.
Once upon a time, Formica laminate was the only option for kitchen countertops. Then, it fell out of favor with homeowners as granite soared in popularity. But as with many previous trends, Formica is back.
Formica® Laminate is resistant to scratches and impacts under normal use conditions. Use cutting boards chopping blocks or other protective surfaces.
Lifespan. Though Formica countertops are durable, their lifespan is shorter compared to more premium countertop materials. A well-maintained Formica countertop might last between 10 and 20 years. On the other hand, materials like granite or quartz can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
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.
Quartz is the most durable countertop material. A perfect choice for any kitchen or bathroom, quartz countertops contain a mixture of crushed quartz and resin. These materials create diverse appearance options that range from vibrant, customizable colors to the tried-and-true natural finish.
Formica vs generic laminate countertops: cost
On average, a generic-brand laminate countertop costs about $10-40 per square foot. Formica laminate comes in at an average of $20-60 per square foot. Granite or marble countertops, in comparison, cost an average of $40-100 per square foot.
Do not use abrasive materials such as sandpaper, steel wool, or wire brushes to repair scratches on your countertop. Abrasives will damage the protective coating on high pressure laminate surfaces.
Quartz countertops are engineered stone products composed of about 93% quartz particles and 7% resins and pigments. This manufacturing process creates an incredibly durable surface that is both heat and scratch-resistant. Unlike natural stone, quartz is non-porous, which means it doesn't need periodic sealing.
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!
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.
DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, powders, scouring pads or steel wool to clean the countertops. These will scratch and damage the tops. 1. Laminate countertops are not stain-proof.
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.
Granite. Granite countertops are renowned for their durability and natural beauty. They are heat-resistant and scratch-resistant, making them an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate. If using laminate countertops, specify that the substrate be made with a no added formaldehyde (NAF) resin. Additionally, CDPH-certified laminate materials are preferred.
Use a multi-surface cleaner such as Windex® Multi-Surface Disinfectant Cleaner to clean and shine countertops made of sealed granite, sealed marble, Corian®, Formica® and more. For a gentle clean that also works on a variety of surfaces, try Windex® Vinegar Glass Cleaner.
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can effectively remove stains and restore the shine to laminate surfaces. Mix a paste of baking soda and water, and then apply it to the countertop. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the surface in a circular motion, and then rinse with clean water.
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.
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.
Quartz Countertops
Much like granite, its value is best appreciated in the long term, as it is a durable and low-maintenance material. Quartz is a practical choice, compatible with the challenges of busy family and work lives because it requires so little effort to maintain its classic beauty.
Grays, browns, whites, tans, olives, and other neutral colors are a great choice, helping the style of your kitchen outlast the trends and fads that come and go year in and year out.