Laminate Countertops

Laminate Countertops - Always A Wise Decision

So you think you have to get the big bucks out for that chic and trendy kitchen countertop. You know the one that will have your friends green with envy? Well think again! Formica laminate countertops are the answer! And what's even better is they look fabulous and cost a fraction of what other materials do. Laminate Countertops are a wise buy!

Plastic laminate is often called Formica which is actually the company that manufacturers it. It's one of the most common material types used in homes today. That's because it's not only affordable it is very durable, and it's easy to install for the handyman in the home. And there are styles that nicely immolate stone.

Read on to find out what the strengths and weaknesses of these laminates are. That will allow you to make the best choices for your kitchen.

You should take samples of your favorite laminate patterns and colors home to try in your kitchen. If you are shopping online many sites allow you to download samples.

Narrow your selection down to two or three chips plus one off the wall choice. Place the chips on your counter and leave them there for a week or two. Start to live with them and then you'll be able to better judge them. Look at them in the daylight, in the evening, with your kitchen lighting on, with your track lighting on, and any other type of lighting that might be in the room. Lighting really affects the look of color.

If you are finding the chips are two small to tell see if your local dealer has a larger slab that you can borrow. If available do the same thing as you did with the chips.

If you are looking for something a little different consider a backsplash or edge that is a different color or pattern. It's a great way for a little contrast.

Take your kitchen countertop mission a serious one, after all it's part of your kitchen décor. Therefore don't be shopping at any old store, rather shop with a kitchen specialty retailer online or at your local home center. They will have a wider selection of products, colors, and they will also be very knowledgeable on their products.

Be aware of dark colors as they can show scratches a lot easier. If you are going to use your countertop then it's going to get the occasional scratch. It really is inevitable. On light colored counters it's often hard to even notice these scratches but with dark colors they tend to jump out.

If you just have to have that dark color because you love it. Test the chip by dragging your coffee cup across it, then a steak knife. See if the scratches are visible. If they are choose another product.

Try a laminate that has a thicker color layer than regular laminate. It might cost a little more but it's worth every dime. Test this laminate chip the same way. Expect to pay about 4 times more for the heavy duty laminate.

You can choose between matte or glossy. Glossy shows scratches more and will dull if it is heavily used so the matte finish is highly recommended. There are also different types of matte finish to choose from.

There are a number of edge treatments available in the laminate counters. The post form is the most common. This means the top is formed from a single piece of laminate which includes the front edge and the backsplash. There are no seams which makes it really easy to clean. The front is just slightly raised which traps spills from running off the counter.

Laminate countertops are the most affordable countertop option on the market. So what are you waiting for? Isn't it time to make your kitchen look great?

Seven Step Guide To Install Laminate Countertops

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A Step by Step Installation Guide for Your Laminate Counter Top

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Differences For The Laminate Counter

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Options of Laminate Countertop Edge Treatments

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Finding Supplies Laminate Countertop

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