White countertops are gorgeous, contemporary, stylish and perfect for creating light and space in your kitchen.
They are a must for an all-white kitchen but a white countertop could be the perfect counterpoint to dark walls and cabinets – however, the effect won’t be so striking if you choose a material that can be easily stained. You want your countertops to stay pristine. Fortunately worktop materials have come a long way in the last few years with technology providing us with super-tough options that will work for a space as busy and functional as a kitchen and one of these is laminate.
Laminate! Yes. The material has come a long way over the past couple of decades and works on so many levels.
Laminate countertops not only give you more bang for your buck but their resistance to wear and tear is improving. Plus, routine cleaning of laminate kitchen countertops is not difficult or demanding.
What is a laminate worktop?
Laminates are made by fusing multiple layers of impregnated paper under high pressure temperatures, bonded to a substrate (an underlying substance or layer). They are non-porous, are easy to maintain and you can choose from an array of designs and colours, including white. Laminate countertops are a great budget option as they’ll give you the look of a more expensive granite, slate or wood version but at a fraction of the price. Laminates are resistant to most stains and chemicals but not heat or steam and if you want to do food prep then you’ll have to use a chopping board but they are a good all rounder and you’ll get that stunning white look that is so desirable right now.
How can I keep my laminate worktop looking good?
Always use chopping boards.
Always place hot pots/pans on trivets (discoloration from heat can happen quickly and one of the downsides of laminates is that these burns can’t be repaired).
Make sure you mop up spills quickly.
Do not store liquids on the surface that may leak and stain.
Be aware that bleach, inks and dyes can damage or stain their surface.
While you can easily clean your countertops with a household detergent, remember to rinse thoroughly with water
Do not use abrasive or acidic cleaning products or even place them on the surface.
Advantages
It’s super budget-friendly
Want a white top that looks like Carrera marble? You got it! Laminates can mimic any finish.
The prepping is minimal. Unlike other materials there is no sealing required. You literally set it in place and forget about it.
It’s resistant to most stains.
Laminate is pretty easy to maintain
They can be antibacterial. Popular brands of plastic laminate countertops are available with antimicrobial protection baked into them.
Laminate is strong. It will be able to withstand being pounded by a heavy object unlike natural stone which may chip.
Disadvantages
Not heat resistant.
Can scratch.
Not great for chopping.
If burnt or scratched they cannot be repaired.
If you want to know more about laminate worktops and how they may work for you, then don’t hesitate to contact us or find your local showroom here.
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