Best countertop and backsplash pros near Galax, VA

The average cost to install or replace countertops is $3,105, with most projects falling between $1,858 and $4,177. However, the total price can range from $400 to $8,500 depending on several key factors. The most influential cost factors include the countertop material, the size in square feet, the quality of the new countertops, and the complexity of the job, such as the number of sink cutouts, corners, and special edging. Other considerations are the accessibility of the installation area and whether the project includes the removal and disposal of your old countertops. You have a wide array of material options to choose from. Laminate is generally the most budget-friendly, costing between $8 and $27 per square foot. On the higher end, slate countertops range from $30 to $90 per square foot. Other popular materials with varying price points include butcher block, quartz, granite, stainless steel, Corian, and wood.

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.

You should use glue and screws when installing butcher block countertops. Opt for a construction adhesive or wood glue applied along the top edge of your base cabinets. For added strength, install support brackets on the base cabinets, then secure your countertop with screws. Make sure you only tighten the screws to the point where the butcher block is snug against the cabinet and don’t overtighten.

Yes, Corian® and other solid surface materials can be cut with standard woodworking tools, such as a circular saw or a jigsaw. However, it is crucial to use the correct type of blade to avoid damaging the material.

For a circular saw, a tungsten carbide-tipped blade is required; a triple chip grind blade is highly recommended. For a jigsaw, you should use a fine-tooth down-cutting blade. Do not use blades designed for cutting wood, as they can cause microfractures that weaken the edges of the countertop. A diamond blade is also unnecessary, as those are designed for harder materials like natural stone, which Corian is not.

After cutting, the edge will be rough. It is essential to sand and smooth the cut edge to prevent microfractures, which can eventually compromise the integrity of the countertop.