The debate continues over whether granite or laminate is the better choice for your kitchen countertop, and there are several key factors to consider when making the decision including cost, look and quality, among others. If you’re one of the thousands of homeowners searching for answers, we’ve cut through the countertop chatter with some straight talk about why engineered granite is the better choice.
Cost
While laminate has traditionally been on the lower end of the cost scale, premium laminate is possible to get at a cost that’s competitive with quartz and granite. Granite can cost anywhere from $60 to over $175 per square foot, and laminate ranges from $10 to $50 per square foot, depending on the quality.
Quality
You can’t judge a book by its cover, and the same can be said for laminate countertops. There’s no doubt that laminate has come a long way; so much so that today’s laminate is made to resemble granite and other types of stone. But the truth is, beneath the surface, laminate is no match to granite when it comes to quality. Laminate is made of thick particleboard with a thin sheet of laminate over it which has a decorative layer made to replicate the look of quartz or granite. Granite Transformations combines superior engineering with the highest quality granite in the world, making its surfaces among the most popular in the home remodeling industry.
Heat-Resistant
Heat can cause permanent discoloration and damage to laminate countertops. Additionally, the adhesive can react and deteriorate the surface if it encounters temperatures above 150 degrees, causing it to burn or melt. Engineered granite is not susceptible to heat, which makes it a “hot shot” in the kitchen. So, by choosing engineered granite, you can place hot pots or pans directly on the counter without scrambling at the last minute for a trivet.
Scratch and Stain-Resistant
With laminate countertops, you’ll find yourself using a cutting board more often, since the surface is susceptible to scratches, staining and water damage. Granite Transformations makes its own quartz, recycled glass and granite surfaces which include a proprietary ingredient called ForeverSeal® making the surfaces stain, scratch and heat-resistant – guaranteeing the lifetime use of the product. And unlike natural granite surfaces, Granite Transformations’ surfaces never require sealing, which can save you a lot of money in the long run.
Beauty
Today’s laminate is available in a variety of colors and patterns, but there’s something about the beauty of stone that tops the charts when it comes to appearance. Granite elevates the look of any area and provides a high-end feel that is unmatched when compared to laminate. You can always tell when a countertop is laminate – because it looks and feels fake.
Increases Home Value
Today’s homebuyers pay special attention to kitchens and bathrooms when searching for a new home. Homes with granite countertops make it to the top of the list since buyers will see a lower quality surface as something they will have to immediately replace. Although laminate countertops are a budget-friendly choice, granite is an investment that will yield a higher long-term return, while delivering elegance and beauty for years to come. Laminate is a good choice for a part-time, temporary, low-cost solution – such as if you need a quick fix for an apartment you rent out.
Lasts a Lifetime
There are not many things you can count on that will last forever. Laminate is not one of them. You can expect laminate to last about 10 years, with burns and scratches among the reasons you will need to replace it. With proper care, the granite available from Granite Transformations will maintain its beauty and durability for a lifetime, and to back that up, it comes with a Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Quick and Easy Installation
Granite countertops from Granite Transformations can be installed over your existing countertops in as little as one day, without the mess of demolition. Just imagine, you can transform the look of your kitchen in days instead of weeks. The process is quick and easy, and you are just a click away from the kitchen of your dreams.
Schedule your free in-home design consultation and see your dream kitchen come to life in no time, just in time for the holidays.