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.
Absolutely. Wilsonart® laminate is exceptional quality, crafted to challenge everything you thought you knew about laminate. With advanced finishes that flawlessly mimic natural stone, wood, and textiles, they bring high-end design to life.
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.
You must take care when placing fresh-off-the-stove pots and pans on it, too, since it's only heat tolerant up to 275 degrees Fahrenheit for a brief period. Dropping heavy items on it can also mar the surface. Once damaged — whether from water, excessive heat, or a break — it's hard to fix laminate.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Formica® Laminate is resistant to scratches and impacts under normal use conditions. Use cutting boards chopping blocks or other protective surfaces.
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.
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.
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.
Wilsonart® HD® and Premium Laminates feature AEON™ Enhanced Scratch & Scuff-Resistant Performance Technology for a dramatically more durable surface than natural surfaces or competitive laminates with similar finishes.
Customers say the Monte Amiata Solid Surface countertops offer a beautiful and affordable alternative to marble and granite, with a durable and easy-to-clean surface.
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.
To clean the surface, use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild soap or detergent. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry. Difficult stains such as coffee or tea can be removed using a mild household cleaner/detergent and a soft bristled brush, repeating as necessary.
Formica® Laminate can withstand heat up to 275 degrees for short periods of time. However, like all surface materials, a trivet should always be used on your countertops to avoid any possible heat mishaps.
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.
In 2024, several countertop materials continue to be popular choices for kitchen renovations. Quartz countertops remain a top favorite, appreciated for their durability, versatility, and wide range of colors and patterns.
Granite. Granite has long been a popular choice for countertops, and it continues to be highly sought after in 2024. This natural stone offers unmatched beauty, with its unique patterns and impressive color variations. One of the most significant advantages of granite countertops is their durability.
Tile Countertops
Ceramic and porcelain tile are among the cheapest countertop materials and come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including designs that mimic granite and other stone. Natural stone tiles are pricier than ceramic but are much more affordable than slab granite or marble.
The official Formica site suggests treating post-formed material no higher than 177 degrees Celsius (or 350.6 degrees Fahrenheit). We offer versions of this material in grades ranging from 82 to 86, using metals such as aluminum, copper, and steel.
The average cost of laminate countertops is $600 to $3,200 total or $20 to $80 per square foot with installation. Material prices are $10 to $50 per square foot, while labor costs are $10 to $30 per square foot. Antimicrobial and high-durability laminates are popular, affordable choices for kitchen countertops.