Learn the key similarities and differences
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Is it possible to compare quartz andlaminate countertops?
But now, quartz countertops and laminate countertops vie for a place in many kitchens.
Read on for a breakdown of how to decide between quartz and laminate countertops.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Both materials are also available in a range of colors.
Both materials are generally durable and highly stain-resistant, and neither needs to be sealed like natural stone does.
Quartz vs. Laminate Countertops: Major Differences
Laminate countertopsare a sandwich of materials.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Quartz countersare a blend of several materials, mostly minerals.
Tip
The laminate covering is often referred to as plastic, but this is not so.
Laminate is made primarily of layers of kraft paper and synthetic resins.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Quartz countertop material is homogeneous; it is the same throughout the entire thickness of the countertop.
Water Resistance
Quartz countertops are 100-percent waterproof.
Unlike stone products like granite, quartz countertops do not need to be sealed.
The top surface of laminate countertops is 100-percent waterproof.
But the materials below the laminate sheet, include some parts of the sheet itself, are not waterproof.
Best for Water Resistance: Quartz
Quartz countertops are more water resistant than laminate countertops.
Heat Resistance
Quartz countertops may look and feel like stone but they are not stone.
The presence of resins in the material makes quartz susceptible to heat damage.
Laminate countertops are built of laminate sheets glued to wood bases.
Laminate can delaminate from the wood under high heat.
A hot, dry pan set down on either surface is likely to burn it.
Heat damage on quartz is difficult to repair; burned or singed laminate cannot be repaired.
Durability and Maintenance
Quartz is highly abrasion-resistant under normal conditions.
Scratches in quartz countertops can be professionally sanded down and buffed out.
Laminate’s topmost wear layer, though surprisingly robust, is still its weak point.
This can be a problem since sharp objects such as knives feature prominently in kitchens.
Scratches cannot be sanded out.
Best for Durability and Maintenance: Quartz
Quartz is tougher and easier to maintain than laminate countertops.
Installation
Nearly all quartz counters must be professionally installed.
It is difficult for homeowners to develop the skill set needed to fabricate and install quartz countertops.
Laminate countertops can be professionally installed or some types of laminates can be self-installed.
Laminate is an easy material to work with and can be cut and finished with standard woodworking tools.
Fabricating a laminate countertop can be cost-efficient if you have the skills for the job.
Best for Installation: Laminate
Both quartz and laminate countertops tend to look and perform best when professionally installed.
But only laminate has a do-it-yourself option.
Laminate countertops range from $14 to $38 per square foot, installed.
Best for Cost: Laminate
Laminate is the clear winner on price.
Laminate counters cost about one-third of the price of quartz countertops.
