Get matched with top countertop and backsplash pros in Bruce Crossing, MI

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.

No, you should not put a hot pan or pot directly on a quartz countertop. While quartz is generally heat-resistant, the resin binders used in its manufacturing are sensitive to extreme heat from items exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This can damage the resin, leading to discoloration, burns, or even cracking. To prevent permanent damage, always use trivets or hot pads for hot cookware.

With the cost of kitchen countertops ranging from $1,900 to $4,300, you’ll want to choose a countertop material that’s durable and cost-effective. Marble countertops will come in on the high-end, whereas corian, quartz, stainless steel, and granite will run in the middle range. Butcher block and laminate are the most budget-friendly—and many DIYers choose to install butcher block on their own because it’s one of the more accessible countertops.

The best finish for butcher block countertops depends on their intended use. If you plan to use the surface for food prep and cutting, a food-safe oil like mineral oil or tung oil is recommended. These oils provide a water-resistant, velvety matte finish but require regular reapplication. If the countertops are primarily for appearance or serving, a stain can add color and sheen. Polyurethane is another option, but it tends to show scratches more prominently, making it less ideal if you plan to cut directly on the surface.