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Laminate vs Stone: Practical Considerations
Those who have had the laminate versus stone dilemma before you are divided about their previous choices. Some say they would “never go back to laminate again” while others say they wish they hadn’t wasted their money on stone. Their reasons for having a strong preference are not always based on the cost alone:
- Those who prefer granite love it because it is more scratch and wear resistant than laminate.
- Some prefer reconstituted stone over granite, marble or laminate because of its uniform appearance.
- Those who like natural stone prefer granite over marble because granite is more scratch and stain resistant than marble.
- Some who go back to laminate do so because their stone benchtop was too dense and they broke plates and glasses against it.
- Stone benchtops can get scratched and stained. Once scratched or stained, they can be difficult or impossible to repair.
In general, homeowners with children lean towards laminate because it is inexpensive and softer than granite. They don’t need to worry about children spoiling the surface or being injured. Homeowners who don’t have young children can take better care of their stone benchtops and appreciate their beautiful appearance.
When it comes to kitchen benchtops, we can be extremely versatile in our design at Perth Premier Home Improvements and there is a lot said for Laminate when it comes to look, feel, quality and price. I will get to Granite Benchtops shortly.
Laminate
Laminate benchtops are well known in Perth and the price is substantially cheaper than granite, but what about the durability. Well don’t just take my word for it. Laminate comes in a huge variety of colours and patterns including look a like granite. Let us guide you where we can. Call us for some samples.
Choosing materials for your new kitchen or kitchen renovation, you’ll be pondering the question, do we choose laminate or stone bench tops. “Shall we invest and choose stone or save money with laminate?” Only you can make the final decision, but if you’re facing the “laminate versus stone” dilemma, these tips might help you make the right decision.
Laminate vs Stone: The Costs*
Unless you have an unlimited budget, you will have to seriously consider the cost of your benchtop. For comparison’s sake, the materials you need for five metres of benchtop (standard 600mm depth) will cost approximately:
- Laminate (with rolled edges): $625.00
- Caesarstone (a popular reconstituted stone product): $2800.00
- Granite: $3300.00
- Marble: $3500.00
These are average prices and we can give you an exact quotation with a free obligation measure up prior to your kitchen or bathroom renovation. Laminate will always cost far less than either reconstituted or natural stone. Another thing to note is Stone benchtops cost more to install than laminate benchtops.
Also think about how long you will be staying in your house. If you’re planning on selling within a couple of years, a stone benchtop won’t add its cost to the sale price of your home. If you’re planning on staying five years or more, the extra cost of stone may be worth it to you. If you decide to go with stone, your next decision will be between natural stone and reconstituted stone. Call Pierce at Perth Premier Home Improvements for more information about the pros and cons of these materials.
*Cost and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.
Perth Premier Home Improvements
Top bathroom and kitchen renovation company in Perth. Specialised home improvement services and delivering beautiful, functional spaces.
