Why Laminate Countertops are Making a Big Come Back

If you’ve been shopping for new countertops, chances are you’ve been shown the latest in laminate countertops, artificial stone, or even cement. But has anyone explained to you about the advantages of and advancements in the most popular countertop surface today -- decorative laminate countertops?

Laminate has been a surface of choice for more than 50 years. It became popular after World War II, when America’s housing boom was in full swing and it was the “cool” new alternative to linoleum countertops. In fact, they are now “cool” again, with a new generation of homeowners seeking out original laminate countertops and dinette tables to re-use in their retro-themed homes!

Most new laminate countertops are being designed with a nod to this illustrious past -- with updated metal edges that recall the dimensional molding that was used on so many tops of their time. But customized, edge treatments are just one of the reasons people are returning to laminate.

When consumers get bombarded with today’s range of luxury countertop options, they’re likely to be dazzled, then intrigued, then confused.

It’s difficult to sort through all the promotional messages and to compare all these new choices, especially when they’re also doing the same thing with cabinetry, faucets, appliances and flooring!

It’s when people get their cost estimates, that they stop in their tracks and collect themselves. They realize that luxury countertops can become a overwhelming share of their construction budget, and could prevent them from getting that custom cabinetry, professional range, or built-in refrigerator they really had their hearts set on.

Today’s laminate countertops can be thought of in two parts -- the visual style of the surface itself, and then the edge treatment. They both offer more options than ever before.

The laminate designs you have to choose from are amazing. You can pick from solid colors, graphics or attractive natural looks. The laminate ‘stone design’ is not the same as what you saw a few years ago. The manufacturers have upgraded the visual qualities of their designs.

Once you’ve chosen your favorite laminate design, take some time to think about the various ways to edge the top. The edge, gives you options -- to integrate the countertop with the backsplash, to upgrade the countertop’s look, to integrate it into the cabinet scheme, or to set the counter off as a design element all its own. Using the conventional self-edge, people are now adding a custom twist by using laminate or metal, in a different color.

You can also make postformed edges by wrapping the laminate down the front of the top. If you don’t like the ‘dark line’ along the edge of traditional countertops, you can use a beveled edge, which, when combined with a stone-design laminate, delivers the impact of more expensive granite or marble.

You will see kitchens with the beveled portion of the edge as an accent stripe. This will help tie in any other color from the room’s color scheme.

Another plus offered by laminate -- you don’t have to worry about the unpredictable visual variation that comes with granite and marble.

Laminate has always enjoyed a position at the bargain end of the cost spectrum. While undermount sinks and special edges can add to the final price tag, an upgraded laminate countertop still leaves plenty of room in the budget.

For homeowners seeking the most value-packed combination of easy maintenance, visual style, low price, and durability laminate remains the top choice.