Laminate Kitchen Countertops An easy, inexpensive option.You can get laminate kitchen countertop material in a variety of colors and styles. Being a manufactured product, laminate lends itself to limitless finishes and textures, and you can achieve the look of other expensive materials without breaking the bank. Laminate can be textured to matte, glossy and granular finishes and also be made to look like wood, marble or granite. This means you can get precisely what you want so that it matches with the rest of your kitchen cabinetry, appliances and overall kitchen design. Laminate is made by bonding paper and particleboard with resin. This is subjected to high heat and pressure, which gives it its solid look. You can buy laminate in sheets or molded with finished edges that can be round or squared. Beveled edges are also available, with the option of wood or brass inlay. If you intend installing your kitchen countertops yourself from sheets, you will be able to cut square edges. The rounded ad beveled edges need heat and pressure to produce that finish. In terms of durability, laminate kitchen countertops have always scored high, going by the number of people who have opted for it. It is a strong material and when you take proper care, can last practically a lifetime of use. Maintenance is not difficult since all you need soap and water to clean, and a soft cloth for mild stains. For tougher stains, baking soda and water works. Some laminates can experience problems with moisture, high heat and can show scratches. Since it is a manufactured product, if water pools around the edges it can dissolve the sealants binding the material. However, there are laminates whose color can mask minor scratches. It is advisable not to cut directly or use sharp items on a laminate surface. If the surface scratches or chips, there’s a tendency for bacteria to hide, so regular cleaning with a good cleaner becomes essential. Associated Cost of Laminate Kitchen Countertops The price of laminate sheets can be as low as $ 4 a square foot. If you opt in for the molded or beveled edge countertops or get a customized design made it can be $ 15 to 25 per square foot. In any case, laminate is inexpensive and can be a great way to give your kitchen a quick makeover. If you include installation, removing your old countertop, cost of plumbing, etc. then the complete job should cost you in the range of $24 to $48 per square foot. It is advisable to go in for professional installation for a good finish. Most likely your local hardware store will give you a good deal on material plus installation. Laminate kitchen countertops, without a doubt are a sensible option in the kitchen especially for those on a budget. Recent finishes are also environmentally friendly since manufacturers are using recycled materials to make the sheets.
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