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Laminate Your Log Home Kitchen In Style
Laminate kitchen countertops are the most popular countertops on the market today. These are made up of several layers of synthetic material, including Kraft paper that is used in making paper bags. This is such a versatile material that it is used for much more than countertops. Bowling alleys use this instead of wood. Boat interiors are also lined with this. This particular countertop comes in more colors, patterns and finishes than any other type of countertop. No matter how unique your decor is you can find these countertops to match. From reds to blues to blacks, there is a countertop for everyone. If you desire the look of granite, stone or hardwood, there is one of these countertop that can satisfy you. You will particularly love these countertops if you do a lot of entertaining. The cleanup and maintenance of this surface is foolproof. These countertops are easy to clean but don't use abrasives. Any type of mild soap and a paper towel or dish cloth should do the trick.
If you have a tough stain, you can use baking soda and a mild household cleaning. Swipe the area with a nylon bristle brush. You can use bleach, but using too much bleach can discolor your countertop. These countertops are nonporous and do not need to be sealed like stone countertops. Unfortunately, if these countertops are damaged, they are difficult to repair. This is because the material is layered. These layers can also break apart if exposed to hot items or hot water. You should never place a hot pot, pan or other item directly on one of these countertops. Make sure you place a pot holder or trivet between the countertop and surface.
These countertops are susceptible to cuts so if you are cutting vegetables, use a cutting board. If you do cut this countertop, it cannot be repaired and you will have to replace it. Since the layers are made of Kraft paper, you may see dark lines at the edges. To avoid this, install the countertops from wall to wall. You can also trim laminate countertop edges with wood or steel to hide the dark lines. When these countertops are edged properly, it is hard to tell them from higher priced stone countertops. These countertops are the most inexpensive type of countertop on the market today. The cost is between $5 and $30 per square foot at most retail outlets. You can also save on labor costs because these countertops are easier to install and take less time. Many homeowners install these countertops themselves.
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