Frequently used in restaurants and lounges, metallic laminates are now trendy for home use, where they provide a contemporary, sleek look. Several manufacturers create solid metal or foil-faced laminates for use in kitchens or other areas. Metallic laminate is most often used on vertical spaces: for backsplashes, to cover cabinets or appliances, or as special accents on drawers. Some metallic laminates can be used on horizontal surfaces.
Metallic laminates are constructed much like plastic laminates, but are topped with a thin layer of aluminum, brass, copper, or stainless steel. They are available in a variety of finishes and textures. Metallic laminates come in titanium, aluminum, iron, gold, pewter, and stainless steel finishes. Within these categories, you can choose satin, striped, herringbone, shiny, or polished looks. Some designers combine glossy and matte metallic looks within a kitchen for contrast.
Common choices for metallic laminates in residential use include silver tones, such as pewter, aluminum, and stainless steel. For neutral metallic laminates, texture adds interest; some are dotted or hammered. Other patterns can include abstract designs or geometric patterns.
Metallic laminates are durable and easy to clean. They can be cleaned with warm water and mild dish or hand soap. Do not use abrasive cleaners on metallic laminates. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Colored metallic laminates come in shades including red, green, and blue. Some have an antique, less industrial look, using warmer tones of copper, bronze, or black. A metallic laminate even exists that resembles the color of green glass.
A peel and stick version of laminate provides the look of metals such as stainless steel, brushed aluminum, or copper. Some plastic laminate is made to look like metal. Plastic laminate is created from numerous layers of plastic coated paper bonded to particleboard with pressure and heat. Although laminate is very easy to maintain, it is susceptible to scratches and is not heat resistant.
Metal backsplash tiles are a popular alternative to metallic laminates and are available in many designs, from contemporary to Old World style. A smooth metal backsplash can provide a place to hang utensils from hooks. Metal backsplashes often complement granite or solid surface countertops.
Metallic laminates are available through manufacturers and from home centers. They sell for about for 6 to 8 US dollars (USD) per square foot, with fabrication and installation priced at an additional 8 to 9 USD per square foot.