Laminate is a good material
Modern laminate is practical, easy to clean and comes in stone, timber and matte finishes, including relevant Polytec ranges. For many kitchens it is a sensible choice, and it remains available as a replacement option.
Why the price gap can be smaller than you'd think
Laminate material usually costs less than stone. On a new kitchen that difference shows up clearly. On a replacement, a large share of the cost isn't the material at all. It's the work:
- removing and disposing of the old benchtop
- measuring to the existing cabinets and walls
- manufacturing the new top, including joins and cutouts
- installation and finishing
- disconnecting and reconnecting the sink, tap and cooktop
That work is needed whichever material you choose. Once it is included, the installed price difference between laminate and some entry-level alternative surfaces may be smaller than customers expect, depending on the project. The point is to compare the complete installed price rather than the material price alone.
How they compare in use
- Heat: both need trivets for hot pans; porcelain is the most heat tolerant option.
- Water: laminate is durable on top, but water getting into edges or the sink cutout can swell the board underneath over time.
- Sinks: laminate generally suits drop-in sinks; stone and mineral surfaces allow undermount sinks.
- Repairs: chips and burns in laminate are hard to repair invisibly.
Our suggestion
Ask to compare both. Choose "Not sure – help me choose" or laminate in the estimate form and we can compare the complete installed options for your project. See the cost guide and stone and mineral options for more detail.
Laminate questions
Can you replace an existing laminate benchtop?
Yes. Existing laminate benchtops can be removed and disposed of, then replaced with new laminate or another suitable compliant surface if the cabinetry is worth retaining.
Is laminate cheaper than other benchtop materials?
The laminate material generally costs less, but complete installed cost also includes manufacture, removal, installation and trades. Depending on the project, the difference from some entry-level alternative surfaces may be smaller than expected, so it is worth comparing both.