Choosing Kitchen Countertops? Compare Laminate & Granite First
When it comes time to replace your worn and outdated kitchen countertops, two popular options rise to the top - laminate and granite. But how do you decide between these two countertop materials? What are the key differences, pros and cons of each one? We'll compare laminate vs. granite countertops on cost, durability, maintenance, appearance and more to help you make the right choice for your home.
Laminate Countertops: The Budget-Friendly Option
Laminate countertops offer an affordable option for most kitchen remodeling budgets. Made from layers of particle board with a plastic laminate surface, laminate counters come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes - some even mimicking the look of natural stone or hardwood.
The lower cost of laminate comes from the inexpensive man-made materials used to create it. Prices range from $20-50 per square foot installed. While not as durable as natural stone, laminate holds up reasonably well to daily wear and tear. Just don't expect it to last decades like a granite or quartz countertop would.
Laminate Countertop Pros
- Very affordable, $20-50 per square foot installed
- Huge range of colors and pattern options
- Some styles mimic natural stone and hardwood
- Easy DIY installation
Laminate Countertop Cons
- Prone to scratching, chipping, burns
- Not as durable as natural stone
- Low resale value for homes
- Seams can separate over time
Granite Countertops: A Premium, Lasting Choice
On the higher end of the spectrum, granite countertops offer unmatched beauty and durability. As an exceptionally hard natural stone that's heat and scratch resistant, granite can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Mined from quarries across the globe, granite's mineral composition gives it a one-of-a-kind appearance no two slabs are exactly alike. Granite costs $80-150 per square foot installed. Though more expensive, it significantly increases the value of a home and will last for decades.
Granite Countertop Pros
- Extremely durable and heat/scratch resistant
- Increases home resale value
- Unique natural beauty and pattern
- Can last decades with proper care
Granite Countertop Cons
- Expensive, $80-150 per square foot installed
- Can stain/etch if not properly sealed
- Needs periodic resealing
- Difficult for DIY, professional install recommended
Key Differences Between Laminate and Granite
When evaluating laminate vs. granite countertops, there are a few key differences to consider:
- Cost: Laminate is significantly cheaper than natural stone. Granite costs 4-8 times more than laminate per square foot.
- Durability: Granite is much more durable and long-lasting, while laminate is prone to wear, scratches, burns, and water damage over a shorter timeframe.
- Maintenance: Laminate requires very little maintenance, just cleaning. Granite needs periodic sealing to prevent staining and etching.
- Appearance: Laminate offers endless colors/patterns. Granite has an unmatched, natural beauty with unique stone patterns.
- Resale Value: Granite increases a home's resale value exponentially more than laminate counters.
Choosing Between Laminate and Granite Countertops
When deciding between laminate vs. granite, the choice often comes down to budget and longevity. For a quick, affordable kitchen update, laminate countertops offer lots of color options and easy installation. However, laminate will likely need replacing again in under 10 years.
For a long-lasting, quality investment that boosts your home value, granite is worth the higher initial price tag. With proper maintenance, granite countertops can add beauty and functionality to your kitchen for decades or even a lifetime before needing replacement.
Home cooks who frequently prepare food or place hot items on their counters may also prefer the heat resistance and durability of natural stone. In the end, weigh the pros and cons carefully for your needs and budget.
While laminate and granite each offer unique benefits, for most homeowners, granite countertops are the clear winner when it comes to long-term value, investment, and durability. Paying more now for granite saves money and hassle in the long run over having to replace laminate counters every 5-10 years. And nothing beats the enduring beauty of natural granite stone.