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The best tool for cutting countertops depends on the type of countertop material. For some softer materials, like laminate (Formica) and butcher block, you can use a hand saw, but most experts recommend power saws like circular saws, since these make the job go faster and easier and give more even results. However, power saws and circular saws are dangerous if used incorrectly, and they can be so powerful that they damage or chip laminate, stone, and other types of countertops. For this reason, you should take safety precautions and use best practices to prevent damage.

The timeline to install countertops largely depends on the materials and the job size. Installing granite countertops takes anywhere from two to seven hours, though complex designs can pass the eight hour mark. Average-sized quartz countertops take two to five hours to install, though most pros will recommend a 24-hour settling period. Marble, on the other hand, is finicky and can take up to two whole days to install. No matter how you slice it, however, a professional is going to complete the job much quicker than an amateur.

You most likely purchased a quartz countertop because it won't stain or etch like marble. However, etching can still happen depending on the quality of the quartz and whether it is repeatedly cleaned with harsh chemicals or exposed to acidic spills. Remember, while quartz is more resistant than natural stone, just like Superman when faced with Kryptonite, it is not indestructible.

Yes, epoxy countertops can yellow over time, especially when they are exposed to direct sunlight or UV rays for an extended period. Discoloration is also often a part of the natural aging process of epoxy resin. UV-resistant epoxy products and a protective topcoat can help minimize yellowing and maintain the countertop's original appearance for extended periods.