Best countertop and backsplash pros near Kula, HI

The most expensive countertop materials are marble and granite. These natural materials are very heavy and require specialized tools and knowledge to install. Their natural veins and flecks elevate the design and make a beautiful statement in the kitchen or bathroom. Because they’re natural, no two countertops will be the same. 

Quartzite is more expensive than granite, largely because of its rarity. Granite is naturally more common. A granite slab generally costs $40 to $60 per square foot (excluding super-rare types), while quartzite slabs cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per square foot. 

With both materials, it’s usually more affordable to purchase stones that are readily available in your location. You may need to import other stones, which come at a higher cost.

Yes, Corian® and other solid surface countertops can be cut with standard woodworking tools like a circular saw or a jigsaw, but using the correct blade is crucial for the best results.

The recommended blade is a tungsten carbide-tipped blade, often called a solid-surface planer or triple chip grind blade. This type of blade is hard enough to cut through the material effectively. For a jigsaw, a fine-tooth down-cutting blade should be used.

It is important to note that a diamond blade is not necessary. Diamond blades are designed for harder materials like natural stone, concrete, or brick, and Corian is not a natural stone.

Using blades designed for wood is not recommended as they can cause microfractures that weaken the countertop's edges. While a tungsten carbide blade provides a much cleaner cut, the resulting edge will still be rough and must be sanded and smoothed to prevent microfractures from developing over time.

Countertop overlays can be a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking for an affordable and fuss-free way to update their kitchens without a full replacement. The installation process is budget-friendly, saves time and labor, and can often be completed in a single day as it doesn't require demolition. Overlays are installed directly over the pre-existing countertop, with material options including quartz, granite, and recycled glass. However, for the overlay to be long-lasting, it is crucial that the underlying surface is properly prepped to ensure strong adhesion.