Laminate Kitchen Countertops come with a lot of perks. They can be quite beautiful. They are generally are quite affordable. They are also fairly easy to care for. These common kitchen and bathroom counters to have some special instructions that come along with them, however.
Making sure Laminate Kitchen Countertops stay looking beautiful does require a bit of special attention. Just like all other countertops out there, the better they are cared for the longer they will stay looking great.
General care:
* Avoid dropping heavy objects on them. Laminate Kitchen Countertops are pretty darn tough, but the laminate itself can be damaged by a particularly nasty drop. Take care when lifting heavy items onto the counters or over them.
* Don’t let them burn. Laminate counters by their nature can be damaged by particularly hot items. Do not place hot pots and pans directly on their surface. Instead, use hotplates, hot pads or even heavy towels to protect the surface.
* Avoid cuts. Make sure not to cut directly on the surface of laminate counters. Use cutting boards, stones or plates instead to protect the finish and surface of the counters. This practice is required for just about every countertop out there. Using the right cutting techniques not only protects the counters, it also protects the knives.
* Be careful with water. Too much water flooded onto a Laminate Kitchen Countertop can cause problems with the seams. If water gets inside, the substrate can swell and ruin the appearance of the countertops.
* Don’t use harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals that have acid in the mix do not go well with laminates. Avoid using them on or near these counters. The types of cleaners to exercise care with include such things as drain unclogging agents, metal cleaners, ceramic cleaners and even rust and lime removers.
Basic cleaning for Laminate Kitchen Countertops is very similar to the care instructions for most other counters. The instructions include:
* Simple cleaning. Wipe up these counters with a clean, soft cloth for basic, everyday cleaning. This will help remove surface dust and dirt without damaging finish.
* Tough stains. Mild household cleaners generally work very well on getting stains out. Avoid using harsh abrasive cleansers. Do not use abrasive sponges or steel wool on laminates. For really bad stains, create a paste out of baking soda and water. Blot this up rather than scrubbing and scraping. Take care to wipe up spills as quickly as possible as laminates can stain permanently.
* Waxing. There are special waxes for laminates that can help create a protective surface to stop stains from sinking in. These waxes should be used on a fairly regular basis to help protect the appearance of counters. Reapplications should be done if the surface wax becomes worn.
Laminate Kitchen Countertops are a little more susceptible to damage than some of the other options out there. Still, these counters can be beautiful additions to any home. With proper care and cleaning, they can look great for years to come.
We are often asked how to paint an existing Laminate Kitchen Countertop, and if it is even possible. Yes, you can paint countertops, but you need to prepare the countertop surface carefully beforehand with special primer. Here’s how.
(1) Wash the countertop with some ammonia-based cleaner or some warm ammonia diluted with water. Get it as clean as possible, removing all dirt and grime. When the surface is dry, you may wish to put strips of low-tack painter’s tape on any trim around the countertop.
(2) The next step is to prime the countertop surface with a bonding primer, this will make sure the paint will stick to a non-porous surface. Some good bonding primers are XIM 400, Sherwin-Williams PrepRite®, or Zinssers Bin. Follow the primer manufacturers instructions; plan on allowing the primer to set for about 24 hours before painting. The odor can be strong, so consider opening windows and closing the room off from the rest of the house when using these products.
(3) When the primer is dry, it’s time to paint your selected new color paint to the existing Laminate Kitchen Countertop. Nothing changes a kitchen’s look quite so much as countertop finishes, so make sure you’ve matched swatches to your existing colors – appliances, walls, flooring and all. If you use your Laminate Kitchen Countertops to prepare food directly on, use water based paint; the chemicals in oil based paints may leech into your food, which is not a good thing. Apply two to three thin layers of paint, letting them dry between each coating. If you like, and are feeling creative, you can stencil-paint some patterned borders on your Laminate Kitchen Countertops new base paint as well at this point.
(4) The final step is to seal the paint. Three coats of satin or high-gloss non-yellowing polyurethane will give you maximum durability. I prefer water-based sealer; it will not alter the appearance of your paint’s colors when it dries. Allow the sealer to dry 24 hrs. You might have to order take-out dinners for a couple of days, but it will be worth it when you see your fabulous new painted Laminate Kitchen Countertops in your kitchen.
Quartz Kitchen Countertops Are Economical, Durable, and Beautiful
If you are looking for an almost maintenance free laminate kitchen countertop material quartz laminate kitchen countertops are a great pick for you. Highly resistant to spills, stains, and any other type of mess aids in helping quartz to be one of the top rated kitchen countertop material on the market today. Incredibly durable with a hardness rating of 7, quartz will be able to take almost anything that you can throw at it and not show a single scratch.
Quartz laminate kitchen countertops are made from a combination of 93% quartz mixed with resin and pigment that can provide a beautiful array of colors and hues to ensure that you have a beautiful one of a kind laminate countertop. While it is being mixed the pigment is what will decide the color of the final products, well that and you of course. Available in over 50 colors it does not offer the most choice out of any material but it definitely does not leave you looking for more options.
Pros:
-High durability and impact resistance
-Heat, scratch, and stain resistant
-Looks of granite without the maintenance and cost
Cons:
-Higher cost
With proper care and maintenance quartz laminate kitchen countertops will stay looking beautiful for many years to come, and probably longer then you will live in the home. Ranging from $45-125 dollars a square foot it is not the cheapest thing in the world but its many benefits can easily justify the higher cost if looked at over time. A highly durable and more economical version of granite, but without its many downfalls, quartz counter tops are a wonderful choice for a family looking for a beautiful, as well as functional kitchen countertop material.
The best kitchen countertop ideas are the ones that meet the requirements of the individual customer. When I first bought my home I fell for the kitchen because it had a large expanse of black granite laminate kitchen countertop. It gleamed hygiene and lifelong strength. Black granite is one of the most expensive and sought after laminate kitchen countertop surfaces.
The best kitchen countertop ideas are those that you hear about before you buy your home or remodel your kitchen. I live in a hard water area and my black granite is impossible to keep looking nice. It is completely impervious to water so every drop sits on it and leaves behind a calcium residue that is a constant struggle to avoid. I also live in a subtropical climate and ants are our constant companions. My beautiful black granite laminate kitchen countertop is the perfect camouflage background for insects.
The best laminate kitchen countertop idea is to foresee and list out your requirements for laminate kitchen countertops and cabinets before you buy. The price I would suggest is the top priority requirement. So your budget needs to be top of your shopping list. The most expensive black granite is not necessarily the best quality if it busts your budget. Kitchen laminate kitchen countertop price are at three levels. Cheapest of all are the laminate kitchen countertops with the fiberboard base. These are the best laminate kitchen countertop ideas of modern times; lighter (cheaper to transport and easier to self-install), non-porous (excellent for hygiene) and available in a large range of colors and styles. Laminate kitchen countertops do have the expensive look without the drawbacks of natural kitchen laminate countertops like marble or engineered stones. Laminate laminate kitchen countertops meet customer requirements with a less painful installation and a great end product.
Next up in budget terms is a wide range of natural wood laminate kitchen countertops and not so natural imitation stone laminate kitchen countertops ‘Silestone’ is another best laminate kitchen countertop idea. It is the color range from vermillion to ‘day-glo’ orange that makes this laminate kitchen countertop well worth investigating. Silestone also has a very appealing warm leathery quality feel. Corian is a synthetic laminate kitchen countertop surface that can be fitted like wood but has the hard quality of marble or quartz, another one the best laminate kitchen countertop ideas.
As I have learned from my own black granite experience the best laminate kitchen countertop ideas are not necessarily the most expensive. Natural stones that weigh so much and cost so much to acquire, deliver and install may look amazing at first sight but can be very bad ideas when you have to live with them. The best laminate kitchen countertop idea is to think in depth about your requirements and then make no compromise in meeting them.
The kitchen is often the most beautiful room in the house. Some people entertain there while others just like to have a nice family meal in the soothing environment of the kitchen. Whichever it is everyone can agree that it is a room that a great deal of time is spent in. So why not make it look better? Maybe a little more updated? A major way that you can change the look of your kitchen would be with a new laminate kitchen countertop. A new laminate countertop can make the kitchen look new and bring out the beauty of it that you have been missing. In this article we will discuss some different types of laminate kitchen countertops that can make any kitchen go from looking out dated to new and improved.
Granite
If money isn’t an issue then granite laminate countertops can bring out any kitchen. The stone will look beautiful while also giving the kitchen a modern and cleaner look. If someone is dreading the look of their kitchen then this would be an ideal solution to have them running to their kitchen as opposed to running away from it.
Ceramic tile
If price is an issue than ceramic tile can be exactly what you are looking for. Besides being easy to clean it is inexpensive and can even be installed by a do it yourselfer. Ceramic tile is also durable so you will not need to be extra careful when you set down those dishes.
Wood
Everyone can agree that wood brings wonderful warmth into a room. The wood brings out the atmosphere of the kitchen and also will give it a classic look. Woods that are often used are maple and oak and can do any kitchen justice.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel can give your kitchen a clean industrial look. Besides being durable, stainless steel is also heat resistant.
A Marble Kitchen Countertop is Considered Elegant and Sophisticated
A marble kitchen countertop is one of the most sought after kitchen laminate countertop materials that is around today and it has been so for many years. Marble laminate kitchen countertops will add a definite touch of class and beauty that is by nature marble. Available in different colors and hues marble ranges in color from yellows and greens to the black and white which is most common.
Marble counter tops are a metamorphic rock in the limestone family. Over time limestone changes to slate under incredible heat and pressure and then further changes to marble when left under even higher amounts of heat and pressure. Marble is found in quarries around the world and can be sculpted to any shape which could be a benefit if you are trying to blend with a decorative piece.
Another thing that can be done to give it an even more defined look is a process that will give it an antique look that definitely add a certain something to even the most beautiful of kitchens. Due to its porosity marble kitchen countertops need to be sealed when they are finished or you risk changing the marble into something you will not be too happy with. The marble laminate kitchen countertops today will last a few decades or longer with proper maintenance which can help justify the very high cost associated with a marble laminate kitchen countertop. look of elegance all its own
-Every piece is unique
-Durable
-Perfect for a baking area because it retains its coolness
Cons:
-Can crack and break
-Most small blemishes can be sanded out
-High cost
A marble laminate countertop will range anywhere from $150-250 per square foot installed the biggest variable is the amount of fabrication done to it. Marble laminate kitchen countertops are a truly elegant and unique material that will add sophistication to any kitchen remodel that you are involved in.
Considerations for choosing kitchen laminate countertops everyone had unlimited budgets, then they would all probably choose granite laminate countertops This is because granite is tough and impermeable if properly sanded and sealed. It’s the material of choice of many five-star hotels, restaurants, and expensive living spaces.
Stainless steel is another very modern and expensive material, in fact much more expensive per square foot than granite, but not all kitchen designs can complement a stainless steel laminate kitchen countertop. these materials can go beyond some people’s budgets and thus they have to look for alternative laminate countertop materials, such as engineered stone, wood, tiles, marble, or laminates. The following are just a few of the features of laminate kitchen countertops you need to look into before deciding on purchasing one:
It should be non-porous. Marble was the laminate countertop material of choice in the ’80s through the early ’90s, but when it was discovered that liquid can seep through its minute cracks, people began stripping off their marble kitchen countertops and replacing them with other material.
You may think that seepage is a minor thing, but when we’re talking about liquids and other liquid foodstuff that spoil, then the trouble comes when those substances start to smell and you don’t even know where they’re coming from.
It should be tough. Kitchen laminate kitchen countertops must be able to take a lot of pounding. Pots and pans are frequently set on them in a haphazard manner, and the material the laminate kitchen countertop is made of should be able to take this daily beating.
The best types of laminate kitchen countertops in this aspect are stainless steal and stone surfaces. However, one must refrain from using granite laminate kitchen countertops as chopping blocks, for instance, because the stone could easily dull your knives.
It should be heat-resistant. You can’t expect to always have a laminate kitchen countertop protector on hand to place beneath fresh-off-the-stove or oven pots and pans. Besides, even if you are alert enough to always use them, there will always be spills from hot drinks or soups. Laminates do not fare well in this aspect and may warp. Hardwood, although it can withstand the heat, may have to be re-oiled from time to time.
With all these considerations, it will now be easy for you to choose the laminate countertop of your choice. Remember, there are a lot more materials to choose from if you make a quick search on the Internet. You’ll find that there’s slate, glass, soapstone, concrete, cement, formica, and many others.
The best thing to do is to go to the home depot nearest you and get a tactile experience of the materials you are considering. Looks are just one aspect of these materials. There’s also the feel to the touch. Some folks don’t want the ‘coldness’ of stainless steel or granite, for instance, and may opt for slate, which adjusts to room temperature.
Others may want to take a closer look at the patterns of the stone they are buying, as you can’t always see the fine details and <a target="_new" rel="nofollow" href="http://kitchen kitchen laminate countertop and size on a magazine photo or Internet shot. Just keep in mind that the kitchen laminate countertop laminate kitchen countertop laminate kitchen countertop or break a kitchen, so give its selection a lot of time and effort.
The popularity of granite laminate kitchen countertops has increased dramatically in recent years, with the media focus on kitchen remodeling and personal incomes rising. Originally the choice for granite laminate countertops was limited to wealthy individuals. Today, homeowners of moderate means choose granite laminate countertops for their durability as well as beauty. In addition to their utility and longevity, granite laminate kitchen countertops are one of the few home improvements that maintain their value. Typically, any appliances, flooring or cabinetry decisions will only add about twenty-five percent of their retail value to the appraisal value of a home. In addition to long term value, the beauty and warmth of granite makes it an ideal material for aesthetic appeal among homeowners and interior designers.
The natural beauty of a granite laminate kitchen countertop complements any style of cabinetry, from French country to the sleek lines of cosmopolitan styles. This ancient stone adds warmth and character to any kitchen, whether it’s a new build or a remodel. Granite is found world wide, and is available in hundreds of colors. Brown and beige tones are the most popular, as they work well with a variety of kitchen color schemes and offer a great deal of flexibility. Some granite colors exhibit “movement,” or a noticeable design within the color, while others have very small patterns. The combination of color and movement means that no two laminate kitchen countertops look exactly alike.
Opinions regarding the color that is best for a kitchen will vary. Dark cabinets can be warmed up with a light colored stone, while light colored cabinets can be anchored with a dark stone. When choosing the granite that will be added to a kitchen décor, it is best not to make selections from “chips” that the decorator or major retailer has on hand. There is too much variation in the color and movement in each slab to be captured in a single chip. Rather, it is better to go to the stone supplier and look at each slab. The slab needs to be reserved at the time of decision, or it may not be available at a later time.
Granite laminate kitchen countertops are a favorite choice for their beauty and durability, however they are not impervious to damage. Regular care includes proper cleaning and the use of sealers to prevent staining. Granite can also easily be chipped, although a professional can perform “invisible” repairs.
The installed prices for granite laminate countertops range from $60 to $120 a square foot, installed. The initial cost is much more than other laminate countertop surface treatments. The majority of the cost is not in the stone itself, but in the cutting, transportation and labor of installation. When it comes to granite kitchen laminate countertops this is one home project that needs to be left to the professionals. Despite the strength of granite, the oversized sheets are extremely delicate and must be precisely cut. Failure to properly set a granite kitchen laminate countertop could cause it to break during regular use.
The durability of granite as a laminate kitchen countertop makes it a favorite of home chefs, as it can withstand more abuse than standard laminate kitchen countertops A hurried cook can quickly set down a hot pot without fear of damage to the polished finish. The hardness of this ancient stone serves as an excellent surface for rolling dough and working with confectionery. When it comes to rolling the perfect piecrust, it’s easy to chill a section of the laminate kitchen countertop by setting a bowl of ice water over the chosen workspace for 15 to 20 minutes.
Granite kitchen laminate countertops have proven to be a wise investment for homeowners. While the final cost of installing granite kitchen countertops will be more than other laminate kitchen countertop material choices, granite will outlast other materials. Selecting granite as a counter surface proves to be an investment in the value of the home as well as the enjoyment of use for the family chef.
Kitchen laminate kitchen countertops possess an important impact upon the total appearance of the kitchen. It’s one of the more used places within a kitchen. Though it could act as a centerpiece of the kitchen, a laminate kitchen countertop ought to be made for keeping its value of function in mind. The kitchen laminate countertop needs to be strong enough to withstand consistent usage, while maintaining its neat and clean appearance. There’re scores of laminate kitchen countertop choices obtainable to select from. Yet, the ideal option must be made keeping a few factors in mind. The more vital quality of concern will be the laminate kitchen countertop material durability. Additional factors include water and heat resistance, simplicity of cleaning, and cost of installation and maintenance. Here’re a few laminate kitchen countertop material choices to select from:
The Solid Surface
The solid surface laminate kitchen countertops could be the ideal choice if you wish to have a seamless and smooth surface at an affordable rate. It’s designed of cast plastics such as polyester, and mineral and acrylic fillers. They’re non-porous and durable. They’re very resistant to scratches and all additional damage and markings could be sanded off. Sinks, as well as additional kitchen laminate countertop materials could be integrated to develop a graceful line. The solid surface laminate kitchen countertops will be obtainable within a huge array of designs and colors. But, they could become discolored by extended heat exposure. They’re prone to damage and cracking by warm pans.
The Granite
The granite laminate kitchen countertops will be the more exquisite appearing laminate kitchen countertops and could spruce up the appearance of the kitchen. It’s designed of natural stone and will be water and heat resistant. It’s additionally dent and scratch proof and will be immune to stains of lemon juice and oil. These types of laminate kitchen countertops are available within many patterns and colors. But, being the more costly laminate kitchen countertop choice, they’re heavy upon your pockets. Once you have them put in, proper maintenance and care will be needed to keep your laminate kitchen countertop appearing just like new. It’s recommended to utilize cleaners that’re uniquely designed for granite. If money isn’t an issue, the granite laminate kitchen countertops will be the ideal choice for you.
The Quartz
The quartz laminate kitchen countertops additionally called engineered stone, will be designed from a blend of resin binders and pigments and natural quartz. It makes it strong and will maintain the appearance of the natural stone. Quartz laminate kitchen countertops will be non-porous, therefore easy to clean and hygienic. They’re scratch, crack and heat resistant and will be available within various colors and patterns. The quartz laminate kitchen countertops will be heavy and have to be put in by professionals. If you’re searching for laminate kitchen countertops which appear just like natural stone, yet has a uniform color, quartz will be the perfect one for you!
The Laminate
The laminate kitchen countertops will be designed of medium density fiberboard or plywood and will be coated using plastic. Laminate laminate kitchen countertops will simply clean with water and soap and will be durable. It’s available within various textures and colors. It’s resistant to stains and water, but, it’s non-resistant to heat and could scratch or crack. This laminate kitchen countertop will be one of the cheaper choices.
Your kitchen can never be complete without a laminate kitchen countertop. This is one of the furnishings that make kitchen operations easier. It is the space, where you can chop your food. When you are done cooking, this can be the area for plating. It is just the perfect space for food preparation and displaying kitchen items. No wonder it is important because it is one of the most utilized spaces in the kitchen.
Because people never cease to stop using laminate kitchen countertops it is important to find the best one. Every homeowner should be able to find quality laminate kitchen countertops at the best price. Here are the top 5 options you can chose from:
1. Laminate laminate kitchen countertops kinds of laminate kitchen countertops are in demand because it can mimic the designs of marble, granite, wood or stone kitchen countertops It is the best option to choose if you are on a strict budget budget. With laminate, you can have good quality kitchen countertops without having to sacrifice the look of your kitchen. It is also easier to maintain compared to other materials. Moreover, if you plan to remodel your kitchen in the future, you can change this one easily for a better and a more expensive material.
2. Natural Stone Countertops
This can be made out of marble, granite, quartz and concrete. They are durable compared to laminates. And they can even give your kitchen a more sophisticated look. In fact, this material is said to be an eco-friendly solution for laminate countertops Tile Countertops
This is another economical solutions for laminate kitchen countertops Aside from their affordability, people opt to have them because they are highly resistant to heat and scratches.
There are different types of tiles that are made into laminate kitchen countertops Some of them are porcelain, ceramic and stone. Each of them has different characteristics, which gives different features and level of comfort.
4. Wood Countertops
Wood always creates a natural beauty. When made into kitchen laminate countertops it creates a homey and warm effect to your kitchens. One of the most famous wood laminate kitchen countertops is the butcher block.
Since wood is porous, it has more areas for bacteria to thrive on. Thus, it needs to be cleaned all the time. It is also prone to burns, stains and scratches. But the good thing about them is that they can be refinished every time they look worn out. It is easy to restore their old looks.
5. Stainless Countertops
Made of metal, this kitchen countertop gives a modern and a contemporary look for your kitchen. They are also sturdy and resistant to damages. Therefore, a homeowner would not have to worry about chipping, scratching, burning and staining. It is also easy to maintain. Spills and dirt can be easily wiped out. You can also use disinfectants to keep the surface bacteria-free all the time.
There are so many laminate kitchen countertop options for your kitchen. All of them can provide a different kind of beauty and comfort. In choosing, evaluate your budget, see the best material that can blend with your kitchen’s overall design and consider the maintenance. This is how you can select the best kitchen laminate countertop to have at home.
