Best Marble Look Countertops: IKEA EKBACKEN Review
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When it comes to finding the perfect countertop that combines style, durability, and budget-friendliness, the IKEA EKBACKEN laminate countertop is one of the best. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of installing these countertops in various settings—from our cozy lake house rental to my contractor husband’s kitchen renovation clients’ homes, and even on our own kitchen island. Every time, they have consistently delivered on both aesthetics and functionality. In this review, I’ll share why the IKEA EKBACKEN has become my go-to marble-look countertop. I’ll also share why it might just be the perfect fit for YOUR next kitchen project!
A Budget-Friendly Option That Doesn’t Skimp on Style
One of the biggest draws of the IKEA EKBACKEN countertop is its affordability. At only $100 CAD for a 6-foot piece and $120 CAD for an 8-foot piece at the time of writing this post, it’s an incredibly cost-effective way to achieve the coveted marble look without breaking the bank. For those of us who love the elegance and timelessness of marble but are working within a budget, the EKBACKEN offers a fantastic alternative that looks far more expensive than it is.
But don’t let the price fool you—this countertop doesn’t compromise on quality or style. The marble-look pattern is subtle, with delicate veining that adds a natural and sophisticated touch to any kitchen. It’s not overly dramatic, which is perfect for those who want the elegance of marble without the boldness that some marble patterns can have. This makes it a versatile choice that can easily blend with a wide range of decor styles and cabinet colors. I’ve used these counter tops with white cabinets and black cabinets, but they’d also look lovely with natural wood tones or brown walnut cabinetry.
Durability That Stands the Test of Time
In all the years I’ve had EKBACKEN countertops in different settings, I’ve been consistently impressed with their durability. Whether it’s in a high-traffic rental property or our busy family kitchen, these countertops have held up exceptionally well. There are no visible scratch marks or signs of wearing, even in areas that see a lot of use. This is impressive given that laminate is often seen as a less durable option compared to materials like quartz or granite.
The EKBACKEN’s durability is due in part to its construction. The laminate surface is a durable material designed to resist scratches, and stains, making it a practical choice for everyday kitchen use. I’ve found that it can handle everything from messy cooking to knife slips without showing damage or stains. And even in a rental property, where countertops can take quite a beating, the EKBACKEN laminate countertops have remained in excellent condition.
Keep in mind that you do have to use a pot holder or trivet under hot pots and dishes on this countertop, as you do on any laminate counter.
A Classic Look That Complements Any Style
Another reason I’m such a fan of the IKEA EKBACKEN countertop is its classic design. The marble-look pattern is timeless, which means it won’t go out of style any time soon. Whether your kitchen is modern, traditional, farmhouse, or somewhere in between, this countertop can seamlessly blend into the design.
In our lake house rental, which has a cozy, coastal vibe, the EKBACKEN adds a touch of elegance without feeling out of place. To contrast, in my husband’s clients’ homes—some of which lean more toward contemporary styles—it provides a sleek, clean backdrop that enhances the overall design. In our own traditional kitchen, the EKBACKEN is the perfect neutral base that ties everything together.
The rounded square edge of the countertop also contributes to its versatility. It’s a simple, understated design that adds a polished finish without being too ornate or fussy. This edge profile works well with various cabinet styles, from Shaker cabinets to flat-front modern designs. It’s a bit of a thinner countertop which keeps it looking understated and subtle in any style of kitchen.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of the IKEA EKBACKEN countertop is how easy it is to install and maintain. If you’re a DIYer like me, you’ll appreciate that the countertop comes with edging strips that can be glued on after cutting the counter to size. This ensures a clean, professional-looking finish even if you’re doing the installation yourself.
In terms of maintenance, the EKBACKEN is incredibly easy to clean. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild dish detergent or soap is all it takes to clean any messes. There’s no need for special cleaners or sealants. Those can be a hassle with other countertop materials like real marble or granite countertop. This low-maintenance aspect is especially appreciated in a rental property, where you want something that looks great with minimal upkeep.
Peace of Mind with IKEA’s Warranty
When investing in any home improvement product, it’s always reassuring to know that the manufacturer stands behind their product. IKEA offers a 25-year limited warranty on the EKBACKEN countertop. This speaks to the confidence they have in its durability and longevity. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected. I’ve returned and replaced a few things from IKEA. They’re always great with their customer service when I have to do so.
The Verdict: Why IKEA EKBACKEN is My Favourite Marble-Look Countertop
After years of using the IKEA EKBACKEN laminate countertop in various settings, I can confidently say it’s my favourite marble-look option on the market. It combines everything I look for in a countertop—style, durability, affordability, and ease of maintenance. The subtle, natural-looking marble pattern is a timeless choice that complements a wide range of decor styles, making it a versatile option for any kitchen.
The durability of the EKBACKEN has been particularly impressive. Despite heavy use, it shows no signs of wear, and the surface remains as smooth and scratch-free as the day it was installed. For those on a budget, the price point is unbeatable, offering a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
In addition to kitchen counters, I think this beautiful countertop would be an excellent choice for bathrooms. You could cut the pieces to suit shallower bathroom vanity cabinets; a standard counter overhang is 1 1/2 inches.
Whether you’re renovating your own kitchen, building a new kitchen, updating a rental property, or working on a client’s home, the IKEA EKBACKEN laminate countertop is a fantastic choice that delivers on all fronts. With its classic design, easy installation, and low maintenance requirements, it’s a product that offers both beauty and practicality—a combination that’s hard to beat.
So, if you’re in the market for a marble-look countertop that won’t break the bank but will still provide a touch of elegance and durability, I highly recommend giving the IKEA EKBACKEN a try. It’s a product I’ve trusted in multiple homes, and it continues to exceed my expectations every time. Happy renovating!!
I completely agree with all the pros that you have itemized for the Erbacken Marble countertop. It is beautiful, durable, affordable, and easy to work with. My most favourite reason why I like IKEA Erbacken countertop is because they are fabricated so that the frustrating dark grey seam that is so visible on most laminate countertops does not exist. IKEA has made these countertops so that the laminate seams are colour matched for a much higher end look. It’s a great product at a great price
point.
What a great set of inspirational photos! Thank you for sharing.
PS: I’m curious if you’ve found a way to handle extra long lengths of countertop. We want to build wall-to-wall cabinets in our dining room, but the length is a few feet beyond IKEA’s longest countertop length.
Which color did you pick? The lively marble effect or the white marble effect!?
White marble effect.