Pittsburgh Laminate Counters

Though there are many different materials used to make countertops, laminate remains one of the most popular. Many would claim that its wide use is due only to its low price and that other materials such as granite or concrete are far superior in every aspect. Laminate is definitely less expensive than some other materials, but it has some physical properties that might impress interested homeowners in southwest PA, as well.

Benefits of Laminate Counters in Pittsburgh
Those who haven't looked at any in a while will be surprised at how far technology has brought laminate countertops. Pittsburgh residents that are picturing the old, plastic-looking laminate counters of decades ago will be amazed at the wide variety of contemporary designs and color choices available today.

Laminate counters can also last quite some time as long as they are taken care of. In most cases, they will easily perform well for 20+ years, and some companies even offer warranties up to 40 years! When problems do occur, they can usually be repaired not only quickly, but cheaply, too. If the damage is so bad that replacement becomes necessary, this process will also be fast and relatively inexpensive.

Drawbacks of Pittsburgh Laminate Counter Tops
In the city, the housing market gets pretty competitive. While laminate counters are a very practical choice for a house you are planning on inhabiting, they don't have the same appeal as natural materials like stone or wood. When selling a house, everything matters, and a kitchen with laminate countertops probably won't be as appealing to a prospective buyer as one with granite counters. Natural stone will also increase the market value of a home more than laminate will.

If your kitchen gets a lot of use, laminate will also wear out faster than stone. It is also easier to scuff and scratch than a granite surface would be. It is recommended that anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen choose a matte finish laminate rather than a glossy finish to keep these inevitable scratches and scuffs from showing up as glaringly.

Laminate counters are also far more susceptible to heat damage than their heavier, denser counterparts. When handling hot pots and pans, it is very important to use a trivet to protect your counter's surface. With a harder substance, damage would be far less likely. In fact, some people choose to install a small section of ceramic tile next to the stove specifically for hot cooking equipment.

Pricing of Pittsburgh Laminate Counters
Though not the only reason for its popularity, laminate's price certainly makes a case for itself, especially when compared to the prices of other common counter materials. To install laminate counters, Pittsburgh homeowners are looking at a bill of somewhere around $1,400 (give or take, depending on the size of the job). Pittsburgh prices for granite, concrete, and solid surface counters can easily reach over $4,000. With that kind of a price difference, you might be able to get new laminate counters several times before you ever reach the cost of one installation of a harder material!