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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.

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.

Butcher block countertops typically last around 20 years, and sometimes longer, with proper maintenance. This lifespan is comparable to granite and longer than laminate. Key maintenance tasks include regular cleaning after every use and resealing, ideally once a month. You can also sand and resurface the countertops to remove imperfections like deep scratches, stains, dings, and scorch marks. The longevity is also affected by the thickness of the wood strips used in its construction; thicker strips are generally more durable.

The angle at which you cut countertops depends on the material, your intended outcome, and the location of the cut. For example, rather than cutting a straight 90-degree angle for internal corners, cut edges at a 45-degree angle to give a clean, professional look. For outside edges, most homeowners want squared-off sides, so 90-degree angles can make the most sense there. Because you want to get angles exactly right to minimize seams and eliminate the need for patching, be sure to measure several times before cutting and use the right equipment to get sharp, accurate angles.