Get matched with top countertop and backsplash pros in Wappapello, MO

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.

You can occasionally use hydrogen peroxide to remove stains on concrete and granite countertops. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing agent that cleans without bleaching surfaces, which is why it’s so popular as a budget-friendly cleaner. However, it’s still somewhat acidic, so you should use it sparingly on certain countertops.

No, you should not put hot pots or pans directly on epoxy countertops, as this can cause permanent damage. While epoxy is heat-resistant, it is not fully heatproof. Epoxy countertops can typically withstand temperatures ranging from 135°F to 300°F, but cookware directly from a stove or oven can reach much higher temperatures (300°F to 500°F). Placing an extremely hot item on the surface can cause it to melt, soften, or discolor. To protect the integrity and appearance of your countertops, always use a trivet, hot pad, pot holder, or other heat-resistant barrier before setting down hot cookware.

Yes, Corian® and other solid surface countertops can be cut with standard woodworking tools like a circular saw or a jigsaw, but using the correct blade is crucial for the best results.

The recommended blade is a tungsten carbide-tipped blade, often called a solid-surface planer or triple chip grind blade. This type of blade is hard enough to cut through the material effectively. For a jigsaw, a fine-tooth down-cutting blade should be used.

It is important to note that a diamond blade is not necessary. Diamond blades are designed for harder materials like natural stone, concrete, or brick, and Corian is not a natural stone.

Using blades designed for wood is not recommended as they can cause microfractures that weaken the countertop's edges. While a tungsten carbide blade provides a much cleaner cut, the resulting edge will still be rough and must be sanded and smoothed to prevent microfractures from developing over time.