Get matched with top countertop and backsplash pros in Kinross, MI

Solid surface countertops are fairly resilient. You can use soapy water or ammonia-based cleaners. You can also occasionally use diluted bleach (around 5 tablespoons per gallon of water) for sanitization. Avoid window cleaners because they leave a waxy film that can dull the countertop’s surface. Solid surface material is nonporous, so there’s no need for sealing.

If you are building a laminate countertop from scratch, instead of buying premade laminate countertops, you can use particle board underneath the laminate. You will need to use a sheet of particle board for the substrate, along with four-inch strips underneath the edges. For proper installation, make sure that any seams are level and use a sander as necessary before installing the laminate.

Granite countertops can last for 100 years or more with proper maintenance, even in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Granite can crack, stain, or fade over time, like any countertop material, but it’s a highly durable option that should offer a lifetime of use. Some ways to increase the longevity of granite countertops include regularly cleaning the surface, especially after spills, avoiding sharp objects directly on the countertop, and resealing the material every few years.

Butcher block countertops are generally more affordable than quartz countertops. The average quartz countertop costs around $4,500, while the average butcher block countertop costs around $3,750. However, high-end butcher blocks with custom features can negate the savings, since certain woods come with a higher per square foot cost.