Laminate offers high-end look at lower cost

Granite and quartz countertops are popular, but they can be costly. Laminate quartz or granite-patterned countertops are widely available and offer a natural stone look on a budget, says Donna Hamm, owner of Hamm's Home Interiors in Iowa City.

Seamless lines

Laminate countertops used to show end seams. New options, however, offer seamless, rounded and molded edges for a more finished look.

Many laminate countertops can now also be fitted with an undermount sink, as opposed to a drop-in sink. Previously, these options were only available with quartz or granite countertops.

Pattern control

People love granite for its natural beauty, Hamm says. No two pieces will ever look alike, and Hamm highly recommends viewing granite slabs before purchasing.

For some homeowners, that is part of the appeal. For others, however, the lack of consistency is a drawback.

'Each one is different. Some love it, some hate it,' Hamm says.

Laminate offers more control. Choose a color and pattern from a sample and the final product will match.

Laminate made to look like granite has been designed to mimic the natural variation in the stone. However, if a space requires more than one piece of laminate, colors and patterns can match exactly.

Installation

To be under warranty, quartz and granite must be installed by the fabricator — the person who cut and treated the stone. Special equipment is needed to transport and install each slab.

Laminate countertops, however, can be installed by a skilled contractor.

Hamm's Home Interiors

1134 S. Gilbert St., Iowa City; (319) 354-1881; hammshomeinteriors.net

Hamm's Home Interiors Inc. can handle all of your design needs. Give us a call or visit our showroom today.