Quartz vs. Laminate Worktops: Which Is Better?

When it comes to choosing a worktop for your space, the possibilities seem endless with the vast variety of types of worktops available. Quartz and laminate are two of the most popular worktop types, and understandably so! However, choosing between the two requires a deep analysis of your requirements, including budget, aesthetics, and maintenance. Choosing the right material should not be a rushed decision, and you should understand all the key factors about both types of worktops. That’s where we come in. In this blog, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both quartz and laminate worktops to help make your decision easier!

What are Quartz Worktops?

Engineered from man-made stone, natural quartz, and resin, quartz worktops are gradually becoming a fan favourite when choosing a worktop material due to their non-porous and durable attributes.

Advantages Of Quartz Worktops

There are many beneficial characteristics of installing quartz worktops in your space, such as:

• Durability: Quartz worktops are known for their durability, lasting close to a lifetime without cracking or chipping unless there’s damage by impact, such as heavy objects like hammers.
• Aesthetics and Styles: Quartz worktops come in a variety of styles and patterns to suit your style. Whether you’re looking for modern, minimalist, classic marble, or worktops that stand out, there’s a huge array of designs to choose from. Find some of our available quartz worktops here!
• Low Maintenance and Hygienic: Unlike laminate worktops, quartz worktops do not require regular sealing as they’re non-porous, resulting in a countertop that is resistant to staining. Non-porous surfaces are more hygienic as they do not absorb any liquid, preventing any bacteria, mould, or mildew from growing or spreading.
• Environmentally Friendly: As quartz worktops are engineered, they require less water and energy for quarrying, cutting, and delivery, making them more environmentally friendly than other worktops, including laminate. Additionally, numerous materials on the quartz worktop are recycled, for example, glass and ceramic, which would otherwise have ended up in landfills.

Disadvantages Of Quartz Worktops

Nonetheless, as well as quartz worktops being an excellent option when choosing which worktop material to go for, it does come with some disadvantages, for example:

• Cost: Despite being more affordable than other stone or natural worktops, compared to laminate countertops, quartz is more expensive.
• Installation: Due to their weight, quartz worktops will need a specialist team to install them, which may increase your costs.
• Heat Resistance: While quartz worktops are highly heat resistant, it is essential to use heat-resistant pads and avoid putting hot pans or utensils on the surface.

What are Laminate Worktops?

Composed of multiple layers of materials, such as fabric and paper, bonded by resin, laminate worktops have been a popular worktop type for decades, and for good reason too, based on their affordability and ease of installation.

Advantages Of Laminate Worktops

Moreover, laminate worktops are a great choice when choosing a worktop material due to their:

• Affordability: One of the key advantages of laminate countertops is their affordability. Being one of the reasonable worktop materials available, laminate is a preferred choice for many.
• Aesthetics and Styles: Similar to quartz worktops, there are equally as many design surface choices to choose from, including realistic wood and stone textures, to meet your desired worktops styles.
• Ease of Installation: One of the biggest benefits of laminate worktops is how easy they are to install due to their solid composition and lighter weight.
• Non-Porous: Due to their construction of layered materials bonded together with resin, laminate worktops are non-porous and will not absorb liquid, making them resistant to staining.

Disadvantages Of Laminate Worktops

Despite laminate worktops having many advantages, this material of countertop also has some disadvantages, for instance:

• Durability: While laminate countertops are resistant to scratches and stains, they may not withhold them as well as quartz worktops.
• Moisture Sensitive: While laminate worktops do not require sealing, like many other natural stone worktops, they are still susceptible to moisture damage if the edges and seams are not properly sealed during installation.
• Heat Resistance: Similar to quartz, although laminate worktops are fairly heat resistant, be sure to use heat-resistant mats for hot pans or utensils.

In the selection between quartz or laminate worktops, it’s essential to have all the information before making an informed decision. The conclusion comes down to your priorities and specifications, and if either worktops meets them entirely. If you’re non-negotiables are something low maintenance, durable, and a great value for money in the future, quartz worktops may be for you. However, if costs, and ease of installation are essential for you, it may be best to choose laminate worktops. Either way, ensure you’re weighing up the benefits and drawbacks of each worktop before deciding, and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!