Frequently Asked Questions
Below you'll find answers to the most common questions we receive about countertop materials, installation, maintenance, and what to expect when working with AVSONS.
What is the best countertop to put in a kitchen?
The best countertop depends on your lifestyle and design preferences. Quartz is durable and low-maintenance, granite offers natural beauty and heat resistance, and marble is timeless but more delicate. We’ll help you choose what suits your space best.
What type of countertop is most affordable?
Laminate is generally the most affordable, but among natural stones, granite remnants or certain quartz options are budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
What is the typical cost for kitchen countertops?
Pricing varies based on material, size, and complexity. On average, kitchen countertops range from $40 to $100+ per square foot installed. We offer free quotes to help you plan accordingly.
What’s cheaper, quartz or granite?
In many cases, granite can be slightly more affordable, especially if you choose from in-stock options or remnants. However, prices vary by color and source.
Which countertop lasts the longest?
Granite and quartz are both long-lasting and highly durable when properly maintained. Marble can last just as long but requires more care.
What is the lowest maintenance countertop?
Quartz is considered the lowest maintenance since it’s non-porous and doesn’t need sealing.
Can you put hot pans on quartz?
We do not recommend placing hot pans directly on quartz as it can cause discoloration or cracking. Use a trivet or heat pad to protect the surface.
Do quartz countertops need to be sealed?
No, quartz is non-porous and does not require sealing.
Can you put hot pans on granite?
Granite is heat-resistant and can generally handle hot pans, but using trivets is still a good idea to avoid potential cracking.
Can you get new countertops on old cabinets?
Yes, as long as your existing cabinets are level and structurally sound, we can install new countertops on top of them.
Is it worth it to replace kitchen countertops?
Absolutely. New countertops can dramatically improve the look, function, and value of your kitchen.
Can you put hot pans on quartzite?
Quartzite is very heat-resistant and can generally handle hot pans better than quartz, but we still recommend using trivets to be safe.
Can you put hot pans on marble?
Marble is heat-resistant but can be prone to discoloration or thermal shock. It’s best to use protection under hot cookware.
How often should you seal / reseal your countertops?
Granite and marble should typically be sealed once a year, though some sealers last longer. Quartz does not need sealing.
What is the difference between cracks and fissures?
Cracks are structural breaks that weaken the stone, while fissures are natural lines that occur during formation and do not affect integrity.
Why you don't want to fill in fissures in natural stone with epoxy or glue.
Fissures are part of the stone’s character and are not defects. Filling them may affect the look and longevity of the stone.
Do natural stones come with pits, cracks, and fissures?
Yes, natural stones often include pits and fissures that are inherent to their beauty and uniqueness.
How to care for your marble or quartzite countertops.
Use mild soap and water for daily cleaning. Avoid acidic cleaners and seal the surface regularly to maintain protection.
Why you can’t have invisible seams.
Seams are necessary in most countertop installations, and while we work to make them as tight and discreet as possible, they will always be slightly visible. This is due to natural color variations, light reflection, and the need to allow the stone to expand and contract over time—just like wood, though to a lesser degree. Whether you're using natural stone or engineered materials, seams provide essential space for the material to "breathe." Many clients can’t spot the seams until we point them out, but it’s important to understand that they are a normal and necessary part of any stone installation.
