Get matched with top countertop and backsplash pros in Ingleside, IL

The best way to save money on countertop installation is to choose an affordable material. For example, if you have a busy kitchen and need durability, choose a more affordable but lasting material like granite countertops. Likewise, if you don't use your countertops often, you can use a softer material that costs less than more sturdy ones. 

Another way to cut costs is to remove and dispose of the existing countertops yourself, if possible. That way, countertop installers can get straight to placing the new feature, reducing labor costs.

Yes, you can install a new layer of laminate over an existing laminate countertop, which can save you time and money while updating its appearance. The process is similar to installing laminate directly onto particle board. First, clean the existing countertop thoroughly. Next, fill and sand any cracks or damaged areas. Then, you'll need to sand or scratch up the entire surface to help the contact cement or glue adhere properly. After applying the adhesive, you can install the new laminate layer on top. If you're looking for other ways to improve your existing laminate countertops, you could also consider painting them or applying an epoxy finish.

Yes, Corian® and other solid surface materials can be cut with standard woodworking tools, such as a circular saw or a jigsaw. However, it is crucial to use the correct type of blade to avoid damaging the material.

For a circular saw, a tungsten carbide-tipped blade is required; a triple chip grind blade is highly recommended. For a jigsaw, you should use a fine-tooth down-cutting blade. Do not use blades designed for cutting wood, as they can cause microfractures that weaken the edges of the countertop. A diamond blade is also unnecessary, as those are designed for harder materials like natural stone, which Corian is not.

After cutting, the edge will be rough. It is essential to sand and smooth the cut edge to prevent microfractures, which can eventually compromise the integrity of the countertop.

There are many benefits of granite countertops, but it’s not unusual for them to have seams—especially if you’re working with small slabs joined together. Seams are common on larger islands where the installer needs to use more than one granite slab to cover the surface. Luckily, because seams are normal in granite countertops, pros know how to hide them properly, so you’d never know they were there.