There are a number of worktop options out there and all these choices can be confusing. Laminate worktops might sound like a good idea when you consider the price but there are also a lot of drawbacks. It’s important to understand the disadvantages in order to make the best possible choice.
There are a number of types of laminate worktops. Some are more expensive than others and they also vary in terms of quality. The cheaper the laminate, the poorer the quality and the sooner they will need to be replaced. Which means that, in the end, you will spend more on regular replacements than a once-off natural stone worktop installation.
Laminate worktops are easily damaged by sharp and heavy objects. Yes, natural stone can also be scratched and chipped but these damages are not nearly as visible and they can be buffed out or filled. Hot objects can also cause damage to laminate surfaces so think twice about that curling iron! Stone worktops are not immune to heat damage but, again, these kinds of marks can be removed without having to replace the entire work surface.
Laminate countertops are often marketed as low maintenance but it’s important to understand that natural stone can also be easy to clean provided you seal these surfaces regularly. Calculate the cost of new laminate worktops every few years and compare this to the price of granite, marble, slate, quartz, or any other natural stone. You might need to spend more at first but stone holds up much better in wet and humid environments like your bathroom.