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

The least porous countertop material is engineered quartz. Made from a blend of natural quartz and resins, it is non-porous and highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. This makes quartz countertops exceptionally low-maintenance and durable, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where hygiene and easy upkeep are priorities. Other non-porous options include solid surface materials like Corian, which also offer excellent resistance to moisture and stains.

The best budget-friendly countertop option depends on personal preference. Concrete is a great alternative to more expensive materials, as it can be cured and treated for unique designs. Another cheap material worth considering is plywood. It can be laminated or stained to suit nearly any aesthetic. Granite remnants are also a good choice. 

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.

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.