Research & Planning
Family-Friendly Countertops: Laminate vs. Quartz For Busy Homes
Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It's where morning chaos meets after-school snack time and weekend baking projects. And for families juggling the daily hustle, countertops should offer more than just great style- they need to stand up to spills, scratches, and everything in between. If you're exploring new countertops and trying to decide between laminate and quartz, you're in the right place! In this blog, we'll break down the differences between these two popular options so you can make the best choice for your busy, family-friendly kitchen.
What Are Laminate & Quartz Countertops?
First, let's cover the basics on what each countertop material is, so we can easily compare. Laminate Countertops: Laminate countertops start with a solid core of particleboard, and are then topped witha a high-pressure,durable, and easy to clean laminate sheet. Known for their affordability, today's laminate styles can convincingly mimic highend materials like marble or granite- without the big price tag. CustomCraft Countertops, for example, offer a wide selection of colors and patterns. We offer over 150 designs, from colors like Calacatta Marble, to wood patterns like Wide Plank Walnut, to stone inspired like Spring Carnival. Quartz Countertops: Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz crystals and durable resins. They're non-porous, extremely strong, and come in 18 colors with a wide range of patterns and designs. Think of them as low-maintenance, high-performance option with the look of natural stone. Quartz is also a top choice for homeowners focused on resale value, thanks to its long-lasting appeal.
How Do They Hold Up To Family Life?
Laminate: Laminate is a smart, budget-friendly solution that performs well in the day-to-day life of a busy household. It resists most stains and is easy to clean, which is perfect for families with young kids. Think morning smoothies, afternoon crafts, and evening dinners- all managed with a quick wipe-down. While it's not heat-proof or immune to scratches, simple habits like using trivets and cutting boards can keep it looking great. Quartz: Quartz is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to stains, scratches, and heat. It's a great fit for families who spend a lot of time cooking or entertaining. Whether you're prepping meals for the week or letting teens take charge of taco night, quartz countertops are built to handle it with ease. They require very little maintenance- just wipe and go! Both materials offer durability that can keep up with your lifestyle. Your choice depends on how much daily wear your countertops see and what kind of care you prefer.
Cleaning & Maintenance Made Simple
Laminate: Being low-maintenance means laminate is a reliable choice for households with lots of activity. You won't need special cleaners or tools- just soap, water, and a soft cloth to keep things tidy. Quartz: Equally as easy to care for, quartz countertops are also non-porous, so there is no need for sealing. They're naturally resistant to bacteria, mold, and almost all stains, making them a hygienic option for food prep and family meals. Whether you prefer the simplicity of laminate or the built-in durability of quartz, both are practical for busy homes.
Aesthetic Options For Every Taste
Laminate: Modern laminate is all about possibilities. CustomCraft Countertops® offer designs that echo the beauty of natural stone, concrete, wood, and more- perfect for design-savvy families who want big impact on a smart budget. Lighter colors and soft patterns create a fresh, open feel in any kitchen. Quartz: Quartz offers a refined and consistent aesthetic, ideal for homeowners who prefer a more highend, polished look. From soft, light colors to striking and bold patterns, quartz makes a statement while staying versatile and timeless.
DIY Or Professional? Installation Insights
Laminate: If you're the hands-on type, laminate is a great option. It's lightweight and more forgiving for DIY installation, making it a popular choice for homeowners tackling their first remodel. CustomCraft Countertops® come with detailed installation instructions, making the process even easier. You can find everything you need about installation of laminate countertops, here. Quartz: Quartz is heavier and may require more care when handling, but it can still be installed by confident DIYers- especially with help from CustomCraft's clear installation instructions, which you can find here. While some homeowners prefer to bring in a professional for installation, it's not the only option. With the right tools and preparation, installing quartz yourself is possible and rewarding. Both options can be installed by homeowners using our step-by-step guides- just choose the level of involvement that fits your comfort and experience.
What's The Investment?
Laminate: One of the most budget-conscious options on the market, laminate gives you room to upgrade other areas of your kitchen without sacrificing style. It's an excellent choice for first-time homeowners, DIY renovators, or those working within a modest budget- it's the most affordable countertop choice! Quartz: Quartz is a long-term investment that brings durability and elegance to your home. Through more expensive upfront, many homeowners view it as a worthwhile upgrade that adds long-term value and appeal- especially if resale is in your future. No matter your budget, both materials offer great returns in quality, function, and appearance. Start your countertop design today using our free countertop design tool, ŪCrëatë®.
Choosing What's Best For Your Home
Laminate and quartz countertops each bring something special to the table. Laminate is affordable, stylish, and DIY-friendly- ideal for growing families and weekend renovators. Quartz delivers lasting strength, low-maintenance, and a sophisticated finish that elevates any space. Instead of thinking in terms of which one is "better", consider which one best suits your family's lifestyle, design preferences, and renovation goals. Either way, you?re getting a surface that stands up to everyday life.
Ready To Upgrade Your Kitchen?
CustomCraft Countertops® makes it easy to bring style, durability, and functionality into your home. Whether you're leaning toward laminate or quartz, you'll find beautiful, family-friendly options available at your local Menards. Not sure which look fits your space? Use our Ucreate tool to visualize your dream kitchen and explore trending light-toned countertop colors like Aluma Marble Laminate or Calacatta Sands Quartz. Because every busy family deserves countertops that can keep up.
