Formica Vs. Laminate Countertops: Which Is Right For You?
By A. R. HOPKINS
A laminate countertop is created by layering paper and resin on top of particleboard, and Formica is simply the most popular brand of laminate countertop on the market.
Laminate mimics high-end materials like stone or wood, but not all brands are equal. Formica excels in custom imaging, providing superior aesthetics compared to generic brands.
Unlike stone, laminate isn't scratch, water, or heat resistant. Formica withstands scratches better, but it still doesn't match the durability of high-quality materials.
While laminate lacks durability, its affordability is attractive — especially when compared to stone. Generic laminate costs $10-40 per square foot, while Formica averages $20-60.
The countertops you choose should be the ones that fit comfortably within your budget, so Formica costs slightly more than generic but offers more durability and customization.