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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.

The short answer is yes. A stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth are all you need to clean and maintain terrazzo. Harsh cleaners aren’t necessary. You can also apply stone polish every few months to refresh your terrazzo.  

It’s recommended that you clean your terrazzo countertops daily to remove dust before it begins to build up. Dust and other debris can cause small scratches over time. If you spill something, be sure to clean it up immediately before stains set in.

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.

Any surface, including a waterfall countertop, can last decades based on a few things. First is the chosen material. For instance, quartz and granite are more durable and long-lasting than marble or concrete. Proper care also plays a key role. Regular cleaning and sealing, if required, will help any counter resist stains and damage over time.