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Different Countertop Materials: What Should You Choose Granite vs Laminate?
Before you decide to go out and make a purchase for your new countertop, you should first take the time to review the options that will best suit the needs of your Pittsburgh kitchen. There are many different types of countertop materials available; from synthetic materials, to your high end marble and granite. However, it is always a good idea to compare your options before you decide to go shopping for new countertops. Thus, you should narrow it down to a few choices before you decide to go out and make a purchase.
The most commonly used types of countertop material are granite, marble, or a synthetic material such as a laminate countertop. Granite and marble are both natural materials which are commonly used in many Pittsburgh kitchens. However, knowing the differences between these types of materials may help you make a choice.
Laminates
Laminates are popularly used due to the fact that they are much cheaper than marble or granite countertops. These types of materials can be made to imitate the look and feel of a granite or marble countertop. However, their durability and sturdiness are not near as comparable to that of a granite or marble countertop. This type of material is prone to scratches and heat damage. Thus, the main advantage to using a synthetic material is that it is much less expensive than a granite or marble countertop.
Granite
Granite is one of the most widely used materials found in most kitchens. There are many granite dealers located within the Pittsburgh area that would be able to give you a quote as well as the different types of granite that would be best suited to your needs and budget. One of the best qualities of a granite countertop is that it is very durable when compared to a synthetic countertop. It is able to withstand scratches, heat, and chemicals, unlike most synthetic materials. It also very unique in its design and coloring since it is a naturally occurring material. Thus, its pattern and coloring are different for each slab.
However, installing granite countertops in your Pittsburgh kitchen usually proves to be quite the expense. It is a very high end material to use it most kitchen. However, its durability and unique design and look make its price tag worthwhile. Thus, when it comes to choosing between a laminate countertop and a granite countertop, it all comes down to pricing as well as the needs of you and your kitchen.
