"Darin was incredibly easy to work withâ responsive, prompt, clear, thorough, and informative. He got our project done in a faster timeframe than first estimated, and the product looked just as pictured. We love our new butcher block countertop!"
Countertops and Backsplashes questions, answered by experts
You can save some money on countertops by going the DIY route, though it can be risky. Laminate is attractive for cost-conscious homeowners, as it can mimic natural materials like granite and wood. It’s also easy to install. Other inexpensive options include ceramic tile, porcelain tile, and butcher block. For serious savings, skip a full replacement and refinish the pre-existing countertop.
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.
The best way to save money on countertop installation is to choose an affordable material. For example, if you have a busy kitchen and need durability, choose a more affordable but lasting material like granite countertops. Likewise, if you don't use your countertops often, you can use a softer material that costs less than more sturdy ones.
Another way to cut costs is to remove and dispose of the existing countertops yourself, if possible. That way, countertop installers can get straight to placing the new feature, reducing labor costs.
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.
There are many differences between solid surface and quartz countertops. Whether one is as good as the other will depend on what you value most in a counter. These two materials are nonporous, although quartz is more durable. Some people may prefer the look of quartz, although they’re both available in many different colors and designs.
The Mullen, NE homeowners’ guide to countertop and backsplash services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Are you getting close to deciding on Caesarstone® countertops for your home? Discover all the details behind Caesarstone® countertop costs in this guide.
The cost of porcelain countertops is affected by many factors, primarily the material's type (tile or slab) and finish, as well as your counter’s size and shape.
From protecting your walls from cooking spatter to solidifying your aesthetic, these backsplash ideas will elevate the form and function of your kitchen.
