Natural stone staircase or laminate: what is the difference?
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Laminate has long been a popular choice for its price and wide range of designs. At the same time, interest in natural stone stair renovations is growing for their appearance, durability and architectural character.
Short answer
If you are looking for a practical solution with a wide range of designs, laminate is the obvious choice. If you want the staircase to become part of the interior design, a stone appearance fits better.
Differences
Natural stone offers a distinct stone appearance, while laminate is strong in wood designs. In material experience and luxurious appearance, natural stone scores higher. In timeless character, natural stone is generally experienced as stronger. Wear resistance is high for natural stone and medium to high for laminate. In design value, natural stone is experienced as the strongest.
Laminate
Laminate is popular for its many designs, affordable options, familiar appearance and relatively easy installation.
Natural stone
A stone appearance is chosen for its timeless look, luxurious character, architectural calm, ease of maintenance and material experience. It appears more and more in modern homes and design interiors.
Timelessness
Laminate follows trends in colours and designs. Stone-like materials have been used in architecture for centuries and are therefore experienced as more timeless.
Summary
Laminate stands for practical applicability and a broad range of designs. A stone appearance stands for material experience, architecture and a timeless look. The choice depends on whether you want a practical finish or want the staircase to become part of the interior design.
Stone appearance within the portfolio
Within the Omnistair portfolio, EverStep and Signature provide a natural stone appearance.
Unsure between laminate and a stone appearance?
Have your staircase assessed or compare the materials at the Experience Center.
Frequently asked questions
In many cases yes; the purchase price is usually higher. However, a stone appearance is geared towards long-term use, so the cost over the lifespan can be closer than the purchase price suggests.
Natural stone is often associated with a more luxurious appearance, partly due to the real material experience. Laminate looks more practical and is especially strong in wood designs.
Often a stone appearance, because it fits sleek, modern interiors well. Wood-look laminate fits better with a warm, classic atmosphere.
Stone-like materials are often experienced as timeless, because they have been used in architecture for centuries. Laminate designs follow living trends more strongly.
Yes, laminate is still widely used in homes for its price and broad choice of designs. For a staircase as a design element, people more often choose a stone appearance.