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Atlanta Laminate Counters

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Atlanta is, and always has been, known for its wealth of diversity. When it comes to countertop materials, that means that laminate counters in Atlanta should fit right in. No other countertop material offers you more choices when it comes to surface textures, appearance, or design. And even better, laminate counter tops in Atlanta are one of the most cost-friendly countertops you can install, making them an excellent choice for homeowners across the metropolitan area.

The Cost of Atlanta Laminate Counters Compared to Other Materials
We'll start with what's on the mind of most homeowners facing the prospect of installing new countertops: cost. We already mentioned that laminate countertops in Atlanta are easy on your pocketbook, but what does that mean in dollars and cents? Prices will vary from supplier to supplier, and contractor to contractor (that's why it's so important to get multiple bids on your countertop installation), but as a rule, you can count on laminate countertops to run in the $8 to $20 per square foot range. Do the math, and an average kitchen with 30 feet of countertop space will end up costing between $500 and $1,200 to install. Compare that to butcher block countertops, engineered stone, or natural stone, that prices out anywhere from $50 to $100 per square foot, and it's easy to see that you can cut your cost for new countertops in half by choosing laminate over more expensive materials.

What Are Atlanta Laminate Counters Made Of?
While just about everybody in the ATL has heard the term "laminate" thrown around in home improvement circles, few know exactly what a laminate countertop is made of. Laminate itself is made of a combination of industrial papers or fabric, which is then laid over a high density fiberboard, or plywood, substrate. Adding a high-resolution image is the next step, followed by the application of a durable melamine resin. What's most important to know is that at its heart, laminate is a durable, cost-effective countertop material. And since the surface appearance is achieved through that high-resolution image (i.e. photograph) we just mentioned, your choice of countertop designs are virtually limitless.

Atlanta Laminate Counters: Appearance
What exactly does limitless mean? A quick survey of Wilsonart laminate countertops, one of the largest laminate countertop manufacturers in the world, reveals more than 300 looks to choose from, including some impressive names such as Blond Echo, Raven Gemstone, and Jamaican Ivory. Whether you prefer the warm look of wood countertops, the timeless beauty of stone, or you're interested in a more abstract design that can't be replicated anywhere else, there isn't another material on the market that can rival the selection that a laminate counter top in Atlanta provides.

Atlanta Laminate Counters: Other Design Features
It's important to note that your design options aren't limited to choosing between the speckled green of Hunter Nebula and the mottled browns, ivories, and grays that make up Mystique Dawn, either. Atlanta laminate counter tops also offer multiple textures to choose from, as well as the option to custom tailor your laminate countertops in Atlanta with beveled edges, rolls, and curves. You will pay more if you choose these stylish additions, but if you're looking for an Atlanta laminate counter top that sets itself apart from the others, it adds up to money well spent.

Atlanta Laminate Counters: Durability
The subject of durability is always a touchy one when it comes to an Atlanta laminate counter top. Providers of other countertop materials will undoubtedly tell you that laminate is susceptible to scratching and burns, and it won't last a lifetime like some of the competition. Truthfully, when compared to stone or concrete countertops, those providers are absolutely right. Laminate isn't indestructible, and there will come a day when it will need to be replaced. If you make a commitment to take care of your new countertops by using hot pads, cutting boards, and performing regular cleanings, however, you can count on your laminate counters in Atlanta to look great, and perform flawlessly for years into the future.

If you think Atlanta laminate counters might be the right choice for you, talk to a contractor experienced in working with, and installing, laminate about what it will take to install laminate in your home. Better yet, talk to at least three of them, and check references before you hire. Since the state of Georgia doesn't require contractors to obtain any licensing to operate, it makes it all the more important that you do your homework to make sure you're getting the best contractor, and price, you possibly can when you install laminate counters in your Atlanta home.

Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.

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