Countertops are a big part of the décor in your kitchen, and whether you’re building a new home or have purchased an existing one, you want to make sure that they look good for as long as possible. Depending on which type of counter you have, these tips can help you to preserve their longevity.

1. Caring for Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are actually pretty hard wearing, and are unlikely to need much in the way of care or maintenance. An application of a product called a ‘stone impregnator’ is one way to extend the lifespan of this type of counter. It is a product that reduces the porosity of the stone surface, which helps to keep stains at bay. It is still worth remembering that stone can stain though, so if you do spill; wipe it up as soon as possible.

2. Caring for Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops require even less maintenance than granite or other natural stone countertops. This is thanks to the resin that is added during manufacturing. Adding resin makes this type of countertop scratch and stain resistant, and makes it non-porous. So aside from cleaning with a household cleaner, there is not much that needs to be done with this type of counter.

3. Caring for Butcher Block Countertops

If you have butcher-block countertops, then you will need to invest in mineral oil, walnut oil or beeswax to treat and seal the surface from time to time. Avoid cutting directly on the surface, as this will permanently damage and scar it, and make sure that you clean up spills quickly. Butcher blocks, even oiled and treated ones, can and will stain, and once they are stained, you are stuck with it. The good news is that the more often you treat the surface of a butcher-block counter, the better the protection will become.

4. Caring for Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are the cheapest countertop option, but they are also the most likely to be permanently damaged by water and spills. Use regular household cleaners to wipe laminate countertops frequently, and make sure that you check the caulking and seals on your countertop frequently. Avoid standing water too. If you get water under the laminate surface, it will cause the composite board substrate to swell, and that cannot be repaired.

5. Caring for Tiled Countertops

Tiled countertops are not a popular choice in new homes, but there are still a few lurking in older homes. If you have a tiled countertop, the best way to care for it is to use a cleaner designed for tile. If tiles are chipped or cracked, however, it is best to replace the whole counter. Repairing this type of counter is rarely an option, and cracks and chips are unsanitary and can be dangerous.

Generally, the higher the quality of a countertop material, the less work it will take to keeping it looking as good as new. So if you are buying a new house or remodeling your existing home, try to allow a little more in the kitchen budget, so that you can save time and hassles later on.