Countertops are a key part of your kitchen’s design, and it’s easy to fall in love with bold patterns, rich colors, or rare materials. But some of the most beautiful countertop options also require the most care.

If you’re thinking about a new installation, it’s important to know which materials look great—but may demand more effort to keep them that way. Here’s what to consider before choosing a countertop that’s high on style but also high on maintenance.

Natural Stone Can Be Beautiful—But Needs Extra Care

Stone countertops like marble, soapstone, and slate are known for their natural beauty. They offer unique veining and rich texture that can’t be duplicated. But those qualities also come with trade-offs.

Challenges of natural stone:

• Many types are porous, which means they can absorb liquids and stain easily
• They may need to be sealed regularly to protect the surface
• Scratches and etching from acidic foods or cleaners are more likely

Marble, for example, looks elegant but may not be ideal for high-traffic kitchens or homes with young kids.

Concrete and Butcher Block Bring Warmth—but Not Without Work

If you’re drawn to an industrial or rustic look, concrete or wood (butcher block) countertops may appeal to you. They offer a unique design element that adds character to any kitchen.

But be aware of their maintenance needs:

• Concrete can develop hairline cracks over time and may need resealing
• Wood is prone to water damage and needs regular oiling or sealing
• Both materials can scratch more easily than stone or solid surfaces

These materials aren’t off-limits, but they do require a commitment to upkeep.

Some Surfaces Are More Prone to Stains and Discoloration

Countertops that are lighter in color or softer in texture can show signs of wear faster if not properly cared for. Even small things—like placing a hot pan directly on the surface—can lead to lasting damage on certain materials.

Surfaces to be cautious with:

• Light-colored marble or soft granite
• Polished finishes that show water spots and fingerprints
• Any material that isn’t sealed or treated correctly after installation

A trusted Idaho Falls ID countertops professional can walk you through how to protect your chosen surface from daily wear and tear.

Low-Maintenance Alternatives That Still Look Great

If you want a stunning kitchen without constant upkeep, there are several materials that offer a great balance of style and simplicity.

Low-maintenance favorites include:

• Quartz: Non-porous, stain-resistant, and easy to clean
• Solid surface materials like Corian
• Laminate: Budget-friendly and improving in style variety

These materials give you the beauty of more expensive choices, without the maintenance headaches.

Conclusion

The most stunning countertop materials often come with higher care requirements. If you love the look of marble, concrete, or butcher block, just be prepared for the upkeep that comes with them. And if low maintenance is a priority, there are plenty of stylish alternatives to choose from. Need help picking the perfect surface for your home? Call Custom Royal Countertops & Tile at (208) …

Upgrading your kitchen or bathroom can be a smart move, especially if you’re thinking about resale. One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is, Do new countertops actually increase home value?

The short answer is yes, but the full story depends on what you choose, how it’s installed, and the overall style of your home. Here’s what you need to know before making the investment.

Why Buyers Notice the Counters First

When potential buyers walk into a kitchen or bathroom, the countertops are one of the first things they notice. They take up a large visual space and say a lot about how updated and well-maintained your home is.

New countertops can:

• Instantly modernize an older kitchen or bath
• Make small spaces feel cleaner and brighter
• Help your home stand out in a competitive market

Buyers often associate stone and solid-surface countertops with higher-end homes, so a well-chosen upgrade can make your property more attractive.

Return on Investment: What the Numbers Say

Not all remodeling projects give the same return, but kitchen and bath updates tend to offer solid value, especially when done strategically.

Industry studies show:

• Minor kitchen remodels (like new countertops) can return 60%–80% of their cost at resale
  
• Stone materials like quartz and granite are considered desirable upgrades by buyers
  
• Homes with updated kitchens typically sell faster and for higher prices

If your current countertops are scratched, stained, or dated, replacing them is a smart step to improve marketability.

Choosing the Right Countertop Material Matters

Different materials appeal to different buyers, but some choices tend to hold value better than others. Choosing wisely can make a big difference in how your upgrade is received.

Materials to consider:

• Quartz: Durable, low-maintenance, and a popular favorite
• Granite: Timeless and attractive to buyers who love natural stone
• Butcher block: Warm and inviting, but may require more upkeep

A knowledgeable Idaho Falls ID countertops installer can guide you through the pros and cons of each option to match your goals and budget.

Boosting Value Without Overbuilding

While new countertops add value, it’s important not to overspend beyond your home’s market range. The goal is to improve appeal and function without pricing yourself out of your neighborhood.

Smart tips for staying balanced:

• Match your countertop materials to the style and price point of your home
• Keep colors and styles neutral to appeal to more buyers
• Coordinate with other finishes like cabinetry and flooring for a cohesive look

A local installer can help ensure your upgrade fits your space and adds the right kind of value.

Conclusion

Yes—new countertops can absolutely boost your home’s value when done right. They freshen up your space, make a strong impression on buyers, and often deliver a solid return. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or just want to improve your daily space, it’s a worthwhile investment. Thinking about upgrading your kitchen or bath? Call Custom Royal Countertops & Tile at (208) 313-8385 today for professional Idaho Falls ID countertops that …

Replacing your kitchen countertop is one of the most noticeable upgrades you can make. It not only improves the appearance of your space, but also makes your kitchen more functional and enjoyable to use.

If this is your first time replacing countertops, knowing what to expect can help the entire process go more smoothly. Here’s what to expect from start to finish when upgrading your kitchen in the Teton area.

Choose the Right Material for Your Needs

Before anything is removed or installed, the first step is choosing the right countertop material for your space and lifestyle. This decision impacts both the look and long-term durability of your kitchen, so take your time comparing your options.

Popular material choices include:

• Quartz: Durable, low-maintenance, and available in many colors and patterns.
• Granite: A natural stone with unique textures and a classic appearance.
• Butcher block or wood: Warm and rustic, though higher in maintenance.

Each option offers a different balance of aesthetics, cost, and upkeep. Talking with a local Teton countertops professional can help you choose the best fit for your daily use and personal style.

Expect a Short Period of Disruption During Removal

Once your materials are chosen and fabricated, the next step is removing your old countertops. This process typically only takes a few hours, but your kitchen will be temporarily out of service during this stage. A little preparation beforehand can make this part go more smoothly.

What to expect:

• The plumbing fixtures and appliances near your countertops may be disconnected.
  
• Your old countertops will be carefully removed to avoid damage to the surrounding cabinets or walls.
  
• Any issues—like uneven surfaces or rotted wood—will be addressed before new materials are installed.

Clear access to your kitchen and countertops will help the crew work efficiently and safely.

Installation Is Usually Quick and Simple

After the removal is done and the base cabinets are prepped, the new countertops are installed. Most standard kitchen installs take a single day, depending on the size of the job and layout.

During installation:

• The new countertop sections are placed, leveled, and joined
• Sink and appliance cutouts are carefully aligned
• Seams are sealed and the edges are secured
• Any gaps are caulked or filled for a finished look

If you’ve chosen natural stone, it may also be sealed during or after installation to protect the surface and extend its life.

Finishing Touches and Reconnection Complete the Job

Once the new countertops are installed, the final step is reconnecting your plumbing and making sure everything is secure. This may require a short wait, especially if adhesives or caulking need time to cure completely.

Final steps may include:

• Reinstalling sinks, faucets, and fixtures
• Cleaning and polishing the new surface
• Adding backsplashes, if part of the project

At this point, your kitchen is ready to be used again, looking better than ever and built to last.

Conclusion

Replacing your kitchen countertop is a smooth, rewarding process when you know what to expect. From selecting materials to …

If you’re thinking about replacing your countertops, you’re probably wondering how long the whole process will take. The good news is that installation is usually fast, but there are a few steps that come before and after the big day. Here’s a simple breakdown of the timeline.

1. Pre-Installation Steps Can Take a Few Days to a Few Weeks

Before installation starts, there are several important steps that help ensure everything runs smoothly. These aren’t just formalities—they’re essential for making sure your countertops fit, function, and look exactly right in your space.

What happens during this phase:

• Initial measurements of the space and existing counters
• Material selection: granite, quartz, or other stone options
• Template creation, often using laser or physical patterns
• Scheduling fabrication at our shop (which depends on material availability)

This phase can take 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the materials and the complexity of your layout. If your project involves unique corners or cutouts, allow a little extra time. Planning ahead makes all the difference.

2. The Installation Itself Usually Takes One Day

Once fabrication is complete, the actual installation process is typically fast and efficient. For most standard kitchen or bathroom projects, the work is completed in just one day, sometimes even a half day if the layout is simple.

During installation, our team will:

• Remove the old countertops
• Prepare the base cabinets and confirm measurements
• Place and level the new counters
• Secure seams, edges, and backsplashes
• Clean up and inspect the final result

If your project includes custom cuts for sinks, cooktops, or unusual corners, it may take a few extra hours. Larger kitchens or multi-room projects might require a second day, but that’s the exception, not the rule.

3. Add a Little Extra Time for Plumbing and Finishing Touches

Once the countertops are set, a few final tasks remain before the space is ready to use. These finishing touches usually take 1 to 2 days, depending on materials and scope.

Common follow-up tasks include:

• Installing new sinks or faucets
• Sealing natural stone surfaces (if required)
• Cleaning and curing adhesives or sealants

If you’re replacing your kitchen sink or adding new plumbing fixtures, a licensed plumber may need to reconnect everything. 

Also, sealants or caulk may need time to fully dry before regular use. Your installation crew will guide you on exactly when it’s safe to return to normal routines.

4. The Total Timeline Depends on Your Project Size and Scope

While the actual installation day is quick, the total process from start to finish can take 1 to 3 weeks. This includes planning, material prep, fabrication, and any post-installation work.

Larger projects or specialty materials may take longer, but with the right team, delays are rare. We always keep homeowners in the loop and stick to the timeline we set together.

If you’re planning a custom upgrade with Teton countertops, we’ll help you schedule everything so the job gets done smoothly, with minimal interruption to your routine.

Conclusion:

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Installing new countertops can be an exciting way to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, but it’s not without its challenges. Many homeowners make simple mistakes during installation that can lead to costly repairs, delays, or even damage to their new countertops. 

Avoid these common pitfalls by following the right steps and ensuring you don’t make these mistakes.

Incorrect Measurements

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make when installing countertops is poor measurements. Even a small error can lead to a countertop that doesn’t fit properly, causing gaps or awkward seams that affect the overall look and functionality.

To avoid measurement errors:

• Measure twice to ensure accuracy.
• Double-check cabinet dimensions, sink placements, and overhangs.
• Account for any special cuts for appliances or sinks.

Accurate measurements are the foundation for a smooth installation and a professional finish.

Using the Wrong Tools and Materials

Choosing the wrong tools or materials can lead to problems during the installation process. For instance, not using the right adhesive or cutting tools can result in damage to the countertop or an unstable installation.

Here’s how to get it right:

• Use proper adhesives and sealers for the countertop material (e.g., epoxy for granite, silicone for quartz).
  
• Use the correct cutting tools for your material—saw blades and diamond blades are essential for granite and quartz.
  
• Ensure support brackets are installed correctly to avoid sagging or instability.

Using the right tools and materials ensures a long-lasting, secure installation.

Improper Support and Alignment

Countertops require proper support, especially around edges and seams. If the countertop isn’t properly aligned with the cabinets, it can lead to uneven surfaces, unsightly gaps, or even cracking over time.

To avoid misalignment:

• Use a level to ensure the countertop is even.
• Install support brackets in areas where extra weight will be placed, such as overhangs.
• Make sure seams are tight and properly aligned to create a seamless look.

Proper alignment and support prevent uneven surfaces and structural issues down the road.

Neglecting to Seal Countertops Properly

For materials like granite, marble, and even some engineered stones like quartz, sealing is crucial to protect the surface from stains, bacteria, and water damage. Failing to apply a sealant or using the wrong type of sealant can shorten the lifespan of your countertops.

Here’s how to ensure proper sealing:

• Clean the surface thoroughly before sealing.
• Apply a high-quality stone sealer recommended for your countertop material.
• Reapply sealant every 6–12 months, depending on the material’s wear.

Proper sealing keeps your countertops looking great and protects them from damage over time.

Skipping Professional Help

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when installing Rexburg ID countertops is trying to do it yourself without the proper experience or expertise. While DIY projects can be fun, countertop installation requires technical knowledge to ensure everything is done correctly, safely, and up to code.

Why consider professional help:

• Professional installers ensure accurate measurements, proper alignment, and a secure fit.
  
• They have the tools and experience to handle any material, whether granite,

…

Custom countertops are an excellent way to elevate your kitchen or bathroom. In Rexburg, where homeowners value both beauty and functionality, custom countertops allow you to achieve a personalized look that fits your unique style. 

Unlike standard, off-the-shelf options, custom countertops are designed to meet your specific needs and preferences. Here’s why you should consider custom countertops for your Rexburg home.

Tailored to Your Style and Preferences

One of the biggest advantages of custom countertops is the ability to create a unique look that fits your personal style. Whether you want a sleek, modern kitchen or a rustic, farmhouse-inspired bathroom, custom countertops can bring your vision to life.

• Choose from a wide range of materials such as granite, quartz, and marble.
• Select colors, textures, and finishes that complement your home’s aesthetic.
• Customize the shape, size, and configuration to fit your space perfectly.

With custom countertops, your options are virtually limitless, making it easy to create a kitchen or bathroom that is truly one-of-a-kind.

High-Quality Materials for Durability

When you opt for custom countertops, you have access to premium materials that are not only beautiful but also highly durable. Unlike pre-fabricated options, custom countertops are built to last and withstand everyday wear and tear, making them a smart investment for any home.

• Granite: Highly resistant to heat, scratches, and stains.
• Quartz: Engineered for durability, non-porous, and low maintenance.
• Marble: Offers classic beauty, perfect for those looking to make a statement.

Choosing the right material is key to ensuring your countertops not only look great but also stand up to the demands of daily use.

Fit for Your Specific Space and Needs

Every home is unique, and so are your countertop needs. Custom countertops are designed to fit perfectly within your space and accommodate your lifestyle. Whether you need additional space for cooking, a bigger sink area, or extra storage, custom countertops allow you to create a setup that works for you.

• Design countertops with extra depth or width for more workspace.
• Add special features like integrated sinks or built-in cutting boards.
• Choose specific edges, corners, and cutouts that suit your kitchen layout.

With custom countertops, your design will be as functional as it is stylish.

Increased Home Value

One of the best reasons to choose custom Rexburg ID countertops for your home is the increased value they can add to your property. High-quality, custom countertops are often a key selling point for potential buyers, and they can significantly boost your home’s resale value.

• Custom countertops are seen as an upgrade, making your home more appealing.
• Buyers are willing to pay more for kitchens and bathrooms with top-notch finishes.
• The unique design and materials of custom countertops create a memorable space.

Investing in custom countertops today could lead to higher returns in the future.

Conclusion

Custom countertops provide a combination of style, durability, and functionality that’s hard to beat. By choosing custom options for your Rexburg home, you can create a space that truly reflects your personality and needs …

When choosing countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, it’s important to pick a material that suits both your style and needs. One material often admired for its elegance is marble. But is it the right choice for Idaho Falls homeowners? 

While marble is beautiful, it comes with both advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of choosing marble countertops for your home.

Pros of Marble Countertops

Marble countertops are known for their stunning beauty and natural elegance. Here’s why marble may be the perfect fit for your home:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Marble’s unique veins and natural patterns make each piece one-of-a-kind, adding a luxurious touch to any space.
  
• Heat Resistance: Marble is heat-resistant, making it ideal for kitchens. You can place hot pots and pans on it without worrying about damage.
  
• Adds Value: Marble is seen as a high-end material, which can increase the resale value of your home.

If you love classic beauty and durability, marble can be an excellent choice for your kitchen or bathroom.

Cons of Marble Countertops

Despite its elegance, marble does come with some challenges. Here are the main downsides:

• Prone to Scratches and Stains: Marble is softer than other stones, making it more susceptible to scratches and stains from spills, especially acidic substances like lemon juice and wine.
  
• Regular Maintenance: Marble needs regular sealing to prevent stains and moisture damage, which can be time-consuming.
  
• Higher Maintenance: It requires more care and attention compared to granite or quartz, making it less ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance option.

If you’re willing to maintain its beauty, marble could still be a great choice for your countertops.

How Weather Affects Marble in Idaho Falls

Idaho Falls has extreme temperature changes and varying humidity, which can impact marble countertops. The freeze-thaw cycle in winter, as well as moisture in the air, can cause damage to marble over time.

• Freeze and Thaw Cycles: Freezing water can crack marble, making it vulnerable to damage.
  
• Moisture Sensitivity: Marble is more porous than granite or quartz, so moisture can seep in and cause damage.

While marble can withstand some weather conditions, it requires extra care during colder months and high humidity.

How to Care for Marble Countertops in Idaho Falls

To get the most out of your marble countertops, proper care is essential. Here are a few tips for keeping your countertops in great condition:

• Seal Regularly: Seal marble countertops every 6–12 months to protect them from staining.
  
• Use Coasters and Trivets: Always place hot items and drinks on coasters or trivets to prevent burns or marks.
  
• Clean Immediately: Wipe up spills quickly, especially from acidic substances, to avoid damage.

With the right care, your marble Idaho Falls ID countertops will remain stunning and functional.

Conclusion

Marble countertops offer timeless beauty and luxury, but they do require regular maintenance, especially in Idaho Falls’ climate. If you’re willing to put in the effort, marble can be an excellent addition …

In Idaho Falls, the local weather can have a significant impact on your countertops. With varying temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year, it’s important to understand how your chosen countertop material will react. 

Whether you’re dealing with the heat of summer or the freezing cold of winter, taking care of your countertops in this unique climate can prolong their life and beauty.

Effect of Temperature Fluctuations on Countertop Materials

Idaho Falls experiences a wide range of temperatures, which can cause materials like granite, quartz, and marble to expand and contract. These natural shifts can lead to damage if your countertops aren’t properly installed or maintained.

• Granite: While granite is heat-resistant, extreme temperature fluctuations can lead to cracking, especially if direct heat is applied without protection.
  
• Quartz: This engineered stone is more vulnerable to heat than granite, and excessive temperature changes can cause warping or discoloration.
  
• Wood: Wooden countertops are highly susceptible to expansion and contraction due to temperature changes, which can result in warping or gaps if not sealed properly.

To protect your countertops, avoid placing hot pans directly on them and always use trivets or heat pads.

How Humidity Affects Your Countertop Durability

Humidity plays a crucial role in maintaining your countertops, especially for materials like wood, laminate, and stone. Idaho Falls can have humid summers followed by very dry winters, which causes significant strain on certain countertop materials.

• Wooden countertops: Humidity can cause the wood to expand, swell, or even crack if not sealed properly.
  
• Laminate: Humidity can cause laminate countertops to warp or bubble, leading to surface damage.
  
• Stone: Granite and marble countertops are relatively moisture-resistant but can still suffer from prolonged exposure to humidity, which can cause the stone to weaken or crack over time.

Ensure that your countertops are sealed correctly, especially during the most humid months, to prevent damage from moisture absorption.

Winter Weather and Freeze-Thaw Cycles

Idaho Falls experiences cold winters with freezing temperatures, and the freeze-thaw cycle can severely affect certain countertop materials. As water enters the surface and freezes, it can cause cracks and expansion in materials that are not designed to withstand freezing conditions.

• Stone countertops (granite/marble): While these materials are durable, water infiltration during the winter freeze-thaw cycle can lead to cracks or chips.
  
• Concrete countertops: Concrete is prone to cracking during extreme cold as the moisture inside freezes, expanding and causing structural damage.

Protect your countertops by wiping up any spills immediately and ensuring that the materials are sealed correctly to prevent water absorption.

How UV Exposure Impacts Your Countertops

With Idaho Falls’ sunny summers, UV rays can affect countertop materials, particularly those that are prone to fading or discoloration over time. The sun’s UV rays can break down the molecular structure of certain materials, causing them to lose their luster.

• Quartz countertops: While resistant to staining, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause fading in darker-colored quartz.
  
• Wood countertops: Over time, the sun

…

Installing countertops in your kitchen can significantly change the look of your space, but it requires a bit of work and planning. Whether you’re renovating or upgrading, following the right steps ensures your countertop installation goes smoothly. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide for installing countertops in your kitchen.

Step 1: Measure and Plan Your Layout

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful installation. Measure the length and width of the area where the countertop will go, noting any irregularities or cutouts for sinks and appliances. 

A proper layout helps avoid issues later on, especially when it comes to fitting multiple countertop sections together.

• Measure for overhangs: Ensure a polished look by considering the overhang, which provides a professional finish.
  
• Account for seams: Plan for seams, making sure they’re placed in areas that are less noticeable.
  
• Double-check measurements: A quick recheck ensures accuracy and avoids costly mistakes.

Good measurements mean your countertops will fit perfectly, ensuring a hassle-free installation.

Step 2: Choose the Right Countertop Material

Selecting the right material is key to both the aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen. Your choice will affect the look, maintenance, and durability of your Idaho Falls ID countertops. Popular choices include:

• Granite: Durable and heat-resistant, granite is ideal for high-use areas, offering timeless beauty.
  
• Quartz: Low-maintenance, durable, and available in a variety of colors and patterns.
  
• Laminate: Affordable, and available in many colors and designs to fit different budgets.

Pick the material that suits your kitchen’s needs, your budget, and your desired look.

Step 3: Remove Old Countertops

Before installing new countertops, the old ones must come off. This step ensures your new countertops are installed on a clean, sturdy surface. Here’s how:

• Disconnect plumbing: Make sure all water supply lines are safely disconnected.
  
• Unscrew the old countertop: Use a power drill to remove screws and detach the countertop from the cabinets.
  
• Lift and remove: Carefully lift the countertop and remove it without damaging the surrounding areas.

Check the cabinet frame for any necessary repairs before proceeding.

Step 4: Install Your New Countertops

Now for the exciting part—installing your new countertops. Here’s how to secure them properly:

• Start with the longest section: Begin by placing the largest piece into position.
• Use a level: Check to ensure your countertop is even before securing it in place.
• Attach the countertop: Secure it using screws or adhesive, depending on the material.
• Align seams tightly: Make sure seams are aligned properly for a seamless look.

Once installed, check for alignment and secure all sections tightly.

Step 5: Finish with the Backsplash

After securing the countertops, it’s time to install the backsplash. This final touch adds both protection and style to your kitchen.

• Measure and cut: Carefully measure and cut the backsplash to fit your space.
• Apply adhesive: Secure the backsplash by pressing it firmly into place.
• Grout and seal: Apply grout and seal the edges for a polished look.

…

Your countertops are an essential part of your kitchen or bathroom, and keeping them in top shape ensures they remain beautiful and functional for years to come. 

In Idaho Falls, where varying weather conditions can take a toll on surfaces, proper maintenance becomes even more critical. 

Whether you have granite, quartz, or laminate countertops, maintaining them doesn’t have to be a difficult task. Here’s how to keep your Idaho Falls ID countertops looking their best.

Regular Cleaning Is Key

Cleaning your countertops regularly helps to maintain their shine and prevent build-up that can cause stains or surface damage. Depending on the material, the cleaning process may vary, and using the right cleaning method is crucial to ensure longevity.

• For granite and quartz, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges, as they can damage the finish.
  
• For laminate countertops, a damp cloth with a gentle cleanser is enough to wipe away dirt and spills, making maintenance simple and easy.

Always dry your countertops after cleaning to prevent water spots or stains. Regular cleaning can keep your surfaces looking like new.

Protect Against Stains and Scratches

While your countertops are durable, they’re not indestructible. Spills, sharp objects, and heat can all cause lasting damage if not addressed properly. Taking steps to protect your surfaces will prevent these common problems.

To protect your countertops:

• Protect your surface by using cutting boards to prevent scratches from knives and sharp utensils.
  
• Avoid heat damage by placing trivets or hot pads under hot pans, pots, and baking sheets.
  
• Wipe up spills quickly, especially from acidic liquids like lemon juice or vinegar, which can harm granite and marble surfaces.

By taking these simple precautions, you can extend the life of your countertops and keep them looking pristine.

Sealing Your Countertops for Extra Protection

For materials like granite and marble, sealing is an essential step in maintenance. Sealing helps protect against stains, moisture, bacteria, and wear over time, keeping your countertops looking great for years to come.

Here’s how to seal:

• Clean the surface thoroughly before applying a sealant to ensure no debris or oils remain.
  
• Apply a high-quality stone sealer recommended for your countertop material, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  
• Reapply the sealer every 6–12 months, depending on the material and how frequently you use the countertop.

Proper sealing is an important step that enhances both the longevity and performance of your countertops.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Many homeowners unknowingly cause damage to their countertops by using incorrect cleaning methods or neglecting maintenance. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, which can strip the finish and cause discoloration.
  
• Neglecting repairs like chips or cracks that could get worse over time and affect the countertop’s integrity.
  
• Placing heavy appliances directly on countertops without pads or protection, causing unnecessary stress or damage to the surface.

By being mindful of these mistakes, you can preserve the beauty and functionality of your …