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If you want your butcher countertops to last the typical 20 years, you should seal them monthly. Most homeowners use either oil or polyurethane, which helps repel water from the porous material. Keep in mind that if your countertops are in a kitchen, you’ll want to use a food-grade sealant. Tung oil, mineral oil, and beeswax are all popular options.

Onyx countertops have pros and cons. If you seal it properly and take care not to damage it, it can make a good countertop surface. However, it's more often used in bathrooms, where it’s less likely to sustain damage. Having an onyx kitchen countertop is possible, but you’ll need to take extra care not to burn, stain, or otherwise damage the material.

Since knowing how to install countertops correctly requires in-depth knowledge and understanding of the topic, we recommend hiring a professional countertops installer near you to work on this project. Kitchen countertops are a high-visibility investment, meaning mistakes made during DIY installation will be easy to spot, may cause damage, and potentially require re-purchasing materials. Professional countertop installers have the skills, tools, and experience to place your new kitchen feature safely and correctly.

Avoid using harsh, gritty, or abrasive cleaners and sponges on Formica countertops. This includes steel wool, scouring pads, and strongly alkaline or acidic cleaning products like chlorine bleach, oven cleaner, drain cleaner, furniture polish, or vinegar. These can compromise the surface, leading to scuffs, discoloration, and other damage that will reduce the countertop's longevity. Additionally, never place hot items, such as pots and pans directly from the oven or stovetop, onto the laminate surface, as the high heat can cause it to scorch.