Granite vs Laminate: Is Granite or Laminate Better for My Home?

Natural stone, such as granite, quartz or marble, is selected by many homeowners for countertops, fireplace surrounds, tables or staircases. Other homeowners opt for laminate, a manmade option created from layers of paper. Both natural stone and laminate have pros and cons, ranging from cost, durability and ease of care. Spectrum Stone Designs, Central Virginia’s leading natural stone fabricator, examines the pros and cons of granite vs laminate:

Granite:

Granite is a natural stone that is ideal for high-traffic areas, such as kitchens, because it is one of the hardest stones in the world.

Pros:

• Granite is extremely durable. Granite can even be used intermittently as a cutting surface because it is stronger than knife blades.
• Heat doesn’t affect granite. Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure under the earth’s crust. The heat from a cooktop or frying pan won’t damage granite.
• It is highly unlikely that abrasive cleaners will affect the appearance of granite as it is one of the strongest stones in the world.
• When sealed properly, granite is resistant to stains.
• Because it is a natural material, each piece is unique.
• Granite is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
• Granite countertops work with a variety of sink styles including drop-in and apron.
• Granite countertops can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.

Cons:

• If you use a granite countertop as a regular cutting surface, it may dull your knife blades. Granite is an extremely tough and durable material that is stronger than knife blades.
• Granite is made from the heat and pressure under the earth’s crust, causing unique colors and patterns. Depend on the granularity, color and pattern, some seams may show. A dramatic pattern with swaths of color will show more seams than a uniform pattern, but many people find the beauty of natural granite outweighs the concern of seams.
• Granite can be chipped, so it is important to use a professional fabricator and installer.
• Granite countertops are typically more expensive than laminate countertops because they are made of natural materials sourced from around the world. The type of granite selected, edging and complexity of fabrication will affect the cost.
• Granite should be cleaned regularly and resealed periodically to keep granite in the best shape possible.
• Granite that is not sealed properly by a professional granite installer can be discolored by liquids that penetrate the surface of the porous material.

Laminate:

Pros:

• Laminate comes in a wide variety of colors.
• Laminate countertops are generally inexpensive.
• Laminate is chip resistant.
• Laminate makes a low-maintenance countertop.
• Laminate is a lightweight material.
• Cared for properly, a laminate countertop can last 10 to 20 years.

Cons:

• Laminates generally cannot handle heat. A lit flame or heat from a frying pan or other object could leave burn or scar marks on countertops.
• Laminates typically cannot stand up to knife blades, so it is generally not recommended to use laminate countertops as cutting boards.
• Household cleaners containing abrasives can dull the surface of laminates.
• Acidic liquids, such as lemon juice, orange juice, soda or vinegar, may stain laminates.
• Scratches in laminate countertops may be very difficult to repair.
• Improperly sealed laminate can be susceptible to water penetration. If water penetrates the core layer of laminate, it can cause warping, destroying the laminate countertop.
• Laminate is not generally recommended for undermount sinks.

Granite and laminate both offer a variety of pros and cons. To determine which type of material is best for your home, consider lifestyle, budget and maintenance abilities before selecting granite vs laminate. Have additional questions about granite and laminate? Contact Spectrum Stone Designs today.