Laminate counter tops are the most popular, enduring counter tops on the market for a whole lot of reasons. Offering beauty and versatility, these counter tops come with some ups and downs just like their more expensive counterparts. Still, these counter tops are enduring for a whole host of reasons.



Laminate counter tops are generally made using formed plastic, or laminate, for the visible surface. These counter tops are more readily known as Formica, but can go both other names, as well. They are a popular choice due to the versatility they offer in appearance and their relative affordability as compared with others counter top materials.

The advantages of laminates are many and they include:

* Form. Laminates are made by putting a sheet of plastic over a formed fiberboard base. The base material is shaped and cut into the design that's necessary for the surface and the laminate is used to provide the outer, attractive surface. Because of their style of design, laminates readily adapt to a number of different shapes.

* Cost. Laminate counter tops are considered the most affordable of counters on the market generally. Due to their design, they can come in all sorts of different colors and surface textures, too. They tend to be more versatile in appearance.

* Cleaning. Laminates are generally the easiest of counter tops to clean, as well. Typically mild cleansers or soft abrasives can handle almost anything that marks up or dirties a laminate counter top. For tougher stains, lemon juice and baking soda often do the trick better than harsh abrasives.

While laminate counter tops are the most common and popular counters on the market, they do have a few downfalls. Many of these, however, are shared with almost every counter top style available. The fact is counter tops take a beating during the course of everyday use.

The cons of laminates include:

* Scratches: Unlike granite that can typically be buffed out to remove scratches, laminate counter tops do not offer this property. When cuts go in, they tend to stay in. This can be avoided by using proper cutting boards and avoiding direct contact with sharp surfaces.

* Burns: Due to their plastic natures, laminates can and do burn and scorch. It can be virtually impossible to remove the damage once it's done, too. The best way to avoid this problem is to use hot plates and hot pads. Never set hot pots or pans directly on laminate counter tops.

* Seams: Unlike formed counter tops, laminates tend to show very visible seams not only where the counter tops come together, but also on the edges. The look, when well made, can be quite beautiful, but if a slack job has been done, it will be evident.

While laminate counter tops do have their down side, the reality is they are loaded with more perks than pitfalls. Laminates can and do stain, scratch and burn, but so do most other types of counters. With proper care, they can be a beautiful addition to any kitchen or bathroom that needs flat surface work space.