Get matched with top countertop and backsplash pros in Salmon, ID

Formica is a brand of laminate, so all Formica is laminate, but not all laminate is Formica. To identify it, look for a thin, plastic-like surface bonded to a wood or particleboard base. Formica often has branding on the underside. If you don’t see Formica, it could be Wilsonart, another familiar laminate brand. If the countertop is unique, you can visit the Formica site to find a match. Formica is known for creative collaborations that lead to unique design offerings.

Start your search for a reliable countertop contractor online, and look for companies that have high ratings from past customers. Check each of these companies on the Better Business Bureau website and rule out any that have a high number of complaints or an overall low rating. Next, contact the remaining companies and ask for a list of references and examples of past work. It’s best to choose a provider that has references that are still pleased with the work years later and one that provides professional-looking examples of how it serves its customers.

Yes, laminate (or Formica) countertops often come in precut sizes. It is important to measure your space and then do some research, or take the measurements to a local home improvement store to see if you can get the right size. If you do get precut laminate countertops, you may still have to cut holes for the sink and fixtures.

Formica® countertops last an average of 10 to 15 years. Top-quality materials that are well looked after and in a low-traffic kitchen could look good for 20 to 30 years or more—but you may want to replace them to modernize your space before they start to look shabby. Avoiding harsh cleaners and using chopping boards can help keep your Formica® countertops looking good for longer.