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Porcelain countertops have a fairly long life span, sometimes lasting for decades. Depending on how much wear and tear you put your countertops through, it could last 25 to 50 years. But be warned, porcelain is also prone to cracking, so as long as you take good care of it, you’ll have those countertops looking brand new for years to come.

Undermount sinks have clips that attach to the countertop, but they have pros and cons. They are heavier than drop-in sinks, so they only work with sturdy countertops like natural stone and are a more expensive option. You might need someone to help you install the sink, depending on its weight.

Engineered stone countertops range in price between $60 and $200 per square foot. The three main types are quartz, recycled glass, and sintered stone. The most affordable is sintered stone, which is ideal for outdoor kitchens and costs $60 to $100 per square foot.

Recycled glass countertops fall in the middle at $65 to $140 per square foot and offer a very distinct look. Meanwhile, quartz counters are on the higher end of the price range at $50 to $200 per square foot. Popular quartz options mimic the look of natural stones like marble and granite.

Here are some things to avoid to help protect, maintain, and care for laminate countertops. Do not put hot pans or appliances directly onto the countertops because they can scorch the surface. Always use trivets and hot pads. Avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaning products and steel wool. Opt for hot, soapy water and a soft microfiber cloth instead.