The truth is, laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are basically the same; laminate is the material while Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both brands come in a wide range of colors and patterns and are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters.
But today's laminates are of considerably better quality than the classic Formica countertops of the 1960s. While they still may not have the prestige of quartz, natural stone, or composite materials, these latest high-pressure laminates (HPLs) are by no means inferior countertop materials.
Laminate is cheap, even if you're going for the brand name Formica countertops. If you're looking to get a new kitchen on a budget, then a laminate countertop is probably best for you.
Caring for Laminate Countertops
With proper care, a laminate kitchen countertop can last at least 10 to 20 years. Scratches and burns account for the demise of most laminate countertops. So: Don't use your countertop as a cutting board.
Like other laminate countertops, Formica kitchen countertops are made from layers of plastic, bonded to kraft paper or particleboard to create a solid, durable countertop surface.
Formica is a laminate product available in a wide range of styles and colors to suit your every design need. With its water-resistant surface and its ability to be cut to fit, Formica wall panels are perfect for covering bathroom walls quickly, instantly changing the look of your bathroom in a matter of hours.
Laminate that Looks Like Quartz
Synonymous with laminate countertops, Formica offers countless styles and colors. If you like the look of quartz, this Bottle Glass Quartz style from Formica may be what you're looking for. Make your countertops look like new with this unique refinishing process.
You may have heard that you can't have an undermount sink with a laminate countertop, but that's old news. Yes, you CAN have an undermount sink!
According to Better Homes and Gardens, laminate countertops cost between $20 to $60 per square foot. It's one of the least expensive countertop options available and is far less expensive than other countertop materials. Prices can vary based on pattern and color selection.
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 costs a minimum of $15 per square foot, but around $25 per square foot on average.
For Formica® HPL and DecoMetal® Metal Laminates, we recommend disinfecting with: 1) Quaternary Ammonium which is the largest group (198 listed) of EPA approved disinfectants. Examples of Quaternary Ammonium products include: Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes, Lysol®, Virex®, Caviwipes®… 3) Sodium Hypochlorite or Bleach.
However, despite the latest fads, Formica (laminate) counters are still the most popular in homes. 70% of homes today still prefer laminate countertops due to their resiliency, easy maintenance, and of course, affordability.
Heat is a welcome element for cooking but make sure you keep it off the laminate countertops in your kitchen. Hot cookware can leave permanent burn marks on many countertop surfaces including laminate.
Granite has been the number one kitchen countertop option for homeowners for several years. While it has more competition than in the past, granite remains to be a top choice among homeowners because of its natural composition, exquisite looks, and designs that cannot be replicated.
Q: Can I install plastic laminate over a countertop that's already covered with existing laminate material? A: Yes, but the existing surface must be even and smooth. Repair any gouges or loose edges and make sure the existing laminate is glued firmly.
Laminate countertops are not resistant to heat and can scratch. Laminate countertops are an inexpensive, low-maintenance alternative to pricey stone and solid-surface countertops, and they are available in many styles that mimic expensive surfaces such as granite or marble.
Laminate is the most affordable material for use in countertops. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, many of which are created to look like granite, marble or other high-end materials. Most laminate countertops are attractive and surprisingly durable.
Laminate Countertops Are Not Out of Style.
Laminate Countertops
Generally the most affordable countertop material available, laminate is made from layers of plastic bonded to particleboard to form a solid surface.
Also called top-mount or drop-in sinks, overmount sinks have a lip that sits above, and covers a small area of, the countertop. They also have both pros and cons. This is an example of an overmount, stainless steel, double bowl sink.
Stainless steel sinks work particularly well with solid laminate worktops as they complement the sleek appearance of the work surfaces. Due to the construction and waterproof design, both overmount and undermount sinks can be installed in this material.
Cut the Hole With a Jigsaw
Insert the jigsaw blade through the hole, lay the foot of the saw flat on the countertop, and begin cutting along the line. After you've cut about three-quarters of the outline, you'll need a brace to prevent the cutout from falling prematurely and snapping the laminate.
The truth is, laminate, Formica®, and Wilsonart® are basically the same; laminate is the material while Formica® and Wilsonart® are the brand names. Both brands come in a wide range of colors and patterns and are widely marketed for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and bar counters.
Laminate is making a comeback and is being used more and more these days because of its improved design and style. Today's laminate looks more like natural stone and because of improved printing techniques and designers who are creating better recreations of stone, laminate has made a dramatic comeback.
Quartz and Laminate Durability
Both materials are generally durable and highly stain-resistant, and neither needs to be sealed like natural stone does. Quartz is highly abrasion-resistant, under normal conditions, while laminate's top-most wear layer has long been its weak point.