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New countertops can last for anywhere between 15 and 50 years, with the exact lifespan depending on the material:

• Quartz: 50 to 100 years

• Marble: 50 to 100 years

• Granite: 50 to 100 years

• Laminate: 15 to 20 years

• Concrete: 20 to 30 years

• Tile: 40 to 100 years

Keep in mind some materials are more likely to stain and chip than others, which is an important factor to consider when it comes to the longevity of your countertops. Some materials also need special cleaning and maintenance, like tile countertops, which need grout cleaning, and concrete countertops, which need resealing.

Marble is a porous natural stone that needs sealant to minimize staining. Leaving this type of countertop material sealant-free means any liquids left on the surface will quickly absorb into the stone, discoloring it and dulling the sheen. Dark or acidic liquids, like red wine, coffee, and lemon, are the worst culprits. 

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.

Yes, onyx countertops can scratch easily—especially if they’re not adequately sealed. But with the proper maintenance (which includes re-sealing the countertops to protect them from damage), you can prevent your onyx countertops from scratching and repair any damage quickly to prevent it from worsening.