Granite countertops are a timeless luxury that can add value and aesthetics to any home. With a wide range of colors and textures to choose from, there’s a granite work surface for every style.
The natural stone’s durability means it resists scratching and can withstand spills without showing marks, provided they’re re-sealed regularly. Granite counters also are naturally heat resistant, which makes them a good choice for busy kitchens.
Durability
Granite countertops offer one of the most durable surfaces homeowners can choose for their kitchen. They also increase the resale value of a home, making them an investment that will pay off in the long run. Since they are a natural material, they have a tendency to resist damage better than most other countertop options, reducing the likelihood that homeowners will need to replace them soon after installation.
However, this durability comes at a cost, and premium building materials are seldom cheap. Granite is an exception to this rule, and its prices can get high when homeowners opt for rare colors or a particular cut that requires extra time and skill to fabricate.
Fortunately, a homeowner can save money by shopping around for the best deals. Granite fabricators may be able to provide them with samples of slabs in a wide range of popular colors, and they can ask local suppliers for advice about which options will work well within their budget.
When looking at slabs, homeowners should bring a picture of their existing countertop and know their preferred color, edge style, and finish. They should also bring the exact dimensions of their sink, cooktop, or range so that they can get a precise estimate of the square footage needed for their new counters. If they find a stone that they love, have the fabricator tag it for them and take photos from several different angles to make sure that it will look good in their kitchen.
Easy Care
Granite countertops in the kitchen are a beautiful and practical addition to any home. These durable surfaces are heat-resistant and stain and scratch-resistant. They will need to be re-sealed periodically, but the process is simple and affordable, and it is one of the most popular countertop options for homeowners.
To keep your granite counters in great condition, avoid placing hot or acidic items directly on the surface, and use trivets or hot pads for protection. Additionally, it is important to wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent them from sitting on the counters for long periods of time.
It is recommended to clean your countertops daily with a soft cloth or sponge and mild dishwashing liquid and to dry them completely to eliminate water spots and streaks. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers and cleaners that contain harsh chemicals or acidic ingredients, such as vinegar, which can dull the surface or weaken the sealant.
Another way to help preserve your granite’s shine is to spray a 50/50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water on the countertop once a month. You can also find natural, eco-friendly products for cleaning your counters, such as the Environmental Working Group’s Cleaners and Air Fresheners Guide, which provides transparent labeling and simple ingredients for consumers to make informed choices when choosing what they bring into their homes for cleaning.
Eco-Friendly
If you’ve watched a home improvement or real estate show, you know that granite countertops are highly desirable in any kitchen. They convey luxury and add value to your home when you’re ready to sell it. But what many people don’t realize is that granite countertops are also eco-friendly.
This natural stone comes straight from the earth and does not leach harmful chemicals into the environment like other countertop materials. Granite is also highly resistant to stains. The sealer used on your granite countertop will need to be re-applied annually, but it will prevent the penetration of acidic foods and beverages that can discolor other countertop surfaces.
One of the more environmentally friendly granites is Teragren’s BioGraphy, which is made from strand bamboo and recycled glass and is carbon-negative during manufacturing and transportation. Another great option is Silestone’s Eco Line, which combines 75% recycled glass, porcelain, pottery, and vitrified ash with 25% ground natural stone and pigments.
When shopping for granite, keep in mind that honed and leathered textures will add to the cost of your granite countertop. Additionally, premium edges such as Waterfall, Ogee, and Bullnose will be more expensive than standard or eased edges. It’s important to shop around and find a good granite fabricator who offers a wide range of prices for different options, but that you are still getting quality.
Aesthetics
Granite is a natural material that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. As a result, it can complement almost any design style. In addition, the stone is incredibly resistant to chemicals like acid and other household cleaners. This makes it a great choice for those who want countertops that will look good, resist damage, and be easy to maintain.
Because of the way it is crafted, it adds a touch of luxury to kitchens. It also helps to increase a home’s resale value because it is considered a luxurious feature. Granite counters are also an attractive option for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of their new counters. It’s important to choose a local fabricator and granite supplier when possible to cut down on energy costs associated with the transportation of the stone.
For those who are interested in a more eco-friendly countertop, it may be worth looking into cultured granite. This is manufactured using a combination of natural quartz and resins. Although it does not hold up quite as well to heat or chemicals, it is a durable surface that is very cost-effective and offers a wide range of color options. It is also a great option for those who don’t have the budget for granite counters. However, it is important to note that the counters will need to be resealed regularly.