White marble countertops are highly sought after in contemporary kitchen renovations due to their stylish appeal, ability to brighten dark cabinetry, and resilience to heat. Unfortunately, the cost can reach up to $180 per square foot, leading to an expenditure of $2,000 to $5,000 for an average kitchen, and possibly up to $15,000 for larger spaces. For a budget-friendly alternative, consider IKEA’s EKBACKEN white marble effect laminate countertop. Priced at $109 for a 98-inch by 25 and 5/8-inch slab, the cost is approximately $6.50 per square foot. With positive reviews and quality material, it stands as a commendable, though not flawless, substitute for genuine marble.
When comparing the IKEA option to traditional marble countertops, the first aspect to evaluate is its appearance. Although there are various types of marble countertops, the EKBACKEN is crafted to mimic the typical Carrara marble, which is renowned for its white or off-white base with distinctive gray veining. As a manufactured laminate, the EKBACKEN may not achieve the same unique patterning in large quantities, but reviewers have praised its appearance, often receiving compliments on its likeness to real marble. “These counters are beautiful, and for the price, you can’t beat them,” one buyer noted on IKEA’s website.
Other Pros and Cons of the EKBACKEN
Another key factor in choosing the EKBACKEN over traditional marble is the ease of fabrication and installation. The slab comes in a standard countertop depth, simplifying the alignment of its width. This eliminates the need for costly fabrication and transportation of heavy materials, resulting in significant upfront savings. However, if adjustments to the 96-inch width are required for smaller countertops or additional pieces are needed, challenges may arise. Some customers mentioned difficulty in cutting the slabs: “I broke multiple saw blades cutting mine,” one customer shared on IKEA’s website. Additionally, while some buyers hoped to use the same material for both backsplash and countertop to achieve a cohesive look, they were disappointed by the slab’s lack of backsplash-friendly dimensions.
One of the primary benefits of marble in kitchens is its durability, particularly its resistance to heat and stains. The EKBACKEN offers mixed results in this area. Customers report that spills are easy to clean. “We installed them 3 years ago and they have held up beautifully. I have left spills for a while before wiping clean and they never stain no matter what it is,” one reviewer commented on IKEA’s website. However, concerns about durability persist, with some noting that the material is prone to dents. “A kettle already punctured a dent THROUGH the top,” a frustrated shopper reported.
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