When comparing engineered quartz and laminate benchtops in Australia, there are several pros and cons to consider. Here's an overview:
Engineered Quartz Benchtops:
Pros:
Durability: Engineered quartz is highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It can withstand everyday kitchen activities and is less likely to chip or crack.
Aesthetics: Quartz offers a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, mimicking the appearance of natural stone. That can enhance the look of your cabinetry.
Longevity: Engineered quartz is known for its longevity. With proper care, it can last for many years without losing its beauty or functionality.
Off-cuts: Often when using stone in a kitchen there will be "off-cuts" available which is basically left over stone that can be used as a bathroom or laundry benchtop, as a hearth or on an alfresco servery for the same price as laminate.
Intergrated drainers and edge profiles: Stone allows you to integrate a drainer into your benchtop (see below) as well as offering an array of edge profiles.
Intergrated Drainer by Trustone on a cabinetry project by Designer Cabinetry
Photo Credit: Soda Creative
Engineered Quartz Benchtops
Cons:
Cost: Quartz benchtops tend to be more expensive than laminate options. The price can vary based on the brand, colour, edge profile and thickness of the slab.
Vulnerability to UV Light: Extended exposure to direct sunlight can cause the colour of quartz benchtops to fade over time. This is a concern mainly for outdoor applications or areas with excessive sunlight. There are outdoor ranges available, however these products can sometimes be more expensive.
20mm Engineered stone benchtop
Photo: Designer Cabinetry
Laminate Benchtops:
Pros:
Affordability: Laminate benchtops are generally more budget-friendly compared to engineered quartz. They offer an economical option for those seeking a cost-effective solution.
Variety: Laminate benchtops come in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes. They can mimic the look of natural stone, wood, or other materials, providing many design options.
Easy Maintenance: Laminate surfaces are relatively easy to clean and maintain. They are resistant to stains and don't require sealing or special cleaning products.
ABS/ Acrylic Edging: The dreaded black line is a common reason for people not wanting to use laminate in their design. However there are now some wonderful products that mimic stone; acrylic and ABS edging being a few of them.
Laminated Benchtops
Photo Credit: Soda Creative
Laminate Benchtops:
Cons:
Durability: While laminate is durable, it is less resistant to scratches, heat, and impact compared to engineered quartz. However, laminate is still a quality long wearing product.
Moisture Sensitivity: Laminate can be vulnerable to moisture damage if the edges or seams are not properly sealed. Prolonged exposure to water can cause swelling or delamination.
Undermount Sink: If you have your heart set on an undermount sink then you will have to use stone as lamination cannot withstand the moisture from these sinks.
Undermount Sink
Photo credit: Lisa Hayman
It's important to consider your budget, style preferences, and the specific requirements of your cabinetry project when choosing between engineered quartz and laminate benchtops. Additionally, it's recommended to consult with professionals or suppliers for more detailed information and to explore availability and pricing. Contact us at Designer Cabinetry for more information!