23 Jul The Difference Between Formica, Granite, and Quartz Kitchen Countertops
When doing kitchen renovations, your cabinets are likely the first thing you will think about changing. After all, revamping this one element can entirely transform how the room looks and feels.
However, you should also consider replacing your existing countertops with something that suits your needs and your style better. In this post, we’ll be walking you through three of the main kitchen counter materials – granite, formica, and quartz – so that you can make an informed decision on which option to select for your home.
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Granite
30mm thick
Granite is a natural stone, making it perfect for those who want a unique look. It’s incredibly durable thanks to its resistance to both heat and scratches, and you can select the width of your counter, allowing for greater flexibility in sizing.
Adding to your existing granite counters can be tricky as it’s not a man-made material, so it may be hard to find an exact match. The variation in natural formation does mean you’ll get quite a one-of-a-kind look, although be warned that this material is on the expensive side.
In summary: Offering a natural look and high durability, granite is a firm favourite of those willing to invest a bit more in their kitchens.
Formica
32mm thick
Formica, also known as laminate, is a popular kitchen counter material because of its budget-friendly price point. These counters are also easy to clean and install.
However, this low price does come with its downsides. Formica counters come in standard widths of 600mm, 640mm, and 900mm, so you don’t have many size options. They also aren’t as durable as slightly more expensive options, as you can run the risk of water damage if the edges aren’t properly sealed. However, professional installation and additional precautions like placing silicone mats under hot pots can increase longevity.
In summary: Formica is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly solution and who don’t mind having limited sizing options.
Quartz
20mm thick (usually!)
Finally, there’s quartz, who many would agree to be the best of both worlds. It has the durability of granite without as hefty a pricepoint, although it is still more expensive than formica.
Being a man-made stone, quartz also offers a high level of customisation, as you can tailor it to your style and needs. Add low-maintenance and stain resistance to the list of benefits, and it’s easy to see why this is a popular choice. It’s also easy to engineer matching counters should you ever want to add onto your kitchen.
In summary: Those seeking custom countertops that are more durable than Formica but more affordable than granite can’t go wrong with quartz.
In conclusion
All three options mentioned above are great, and choosing the right one will depend on what best suits your needs, style, and budget. As always, we highly recommend working with a seasoned professional to get the best results and determine which material will work for you. Cupboard Value West Rand offers free quotes, as well as comprehensive support throughout the entire process – from consultation, to design, and finally, installation. Feel free to fill in our enquiry form to get in touch!
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