Laminate Countertops

By far the commonest and least expensive kitchen countertop material is plastic laminate. There are four major manufacturers of laminate kitchen countertops, Wilsonart, Formica, Nevamar and Pionite. All these companies offer hundreds of different colors and styles from smooth surfaces to intricate design work. Laminate kitchen countertops can be painted in any color you desire and the patterns that can be worked into the color motif range from traditional scrollwork to abstract designs and even simulate stone and marble.

The construction of laminate kitchen countertops begins with a plywood or particleboard shelf being constructed to fit. The backsplash board is glued to the back and then the whole thing is painted with strong wood glue. The laminate sheet is then carefully laid over the top of the wooden piece and the rollup onto the backsplash is curled into the angle. After that the whole countertop is fastened into specially designed frames that squeeze it all together and is left to dry. After it comes out of the mold, the sink holes are cut out and the end pieces are capped.

Some of the advantages to laminate "Formica(tm)" kitchen countertops are that the surface is very nonporous and therefore is very difficult to stain and if undamaged will not hold bacteria. Laminate kitchen countertops are very easy to clean, needing only soap and water to remove spills.

Some of the disadvantages are that the laminate kitchen countertop is not heat resistant and a hot pan placed directly on the surface can mar the surface. They cannot be used as a cutting surface as they will scratch. While they are impact resistant, there is a danger of chipping along the edges. Since laminate kitchen countertops are constructed of a plastic sheet glued to a wooden substrate, the ends have a separate piece glued on that is usually the first thing to be knocked off. There is also a danger of grime collecting under the sink flange and making a habitat for bacteria. If the surface is cut or the sealant around the sink develops a gap, water can seep in and warp the laminate overlay till it comes loose from the undersurface.

But with a price that is only a fraction of the cost of most of the other materials that can be used, it can still be the best choice for your home. Besides, most of the possible disadvantages to laminate kitchen countertops only occur if you do not give even a modicum of care to your work surface.