☰
☰
Granite is one of the most popular materials for countertop remodels and new kitchen projects. But how do you know if granite countertops are right for your home? The following information will help you to more effectively evaluate your options when making this important decision.
Granite is a natural stone material that is primarily composed of quartz and feldspar. Granite kitchen countertops are highly durable, making it a popular material. In addition to its great durability, granite countertops possess a stylish, elegant appearance. Because every granite slab has a distinctive color and mineral pattern, your countertop will have a truly unique appearance.
When selecting a slab for your granite countertop, you can choose from a wide range of finishes – from deep black to creamy white to speckled gray – ensuring your new countertop complements the style and color of the kitchen or bathroom. Common granite styles include:
Granite kitchen countertops offer a wide range of benefits, including:
Granite is one of the most durable stones you could use for kitchen countertops. It’s extremely dense and virtually indestructible, ranking second in hardness to only diamonds. Because granite is so hard and dense, you can use steel knives directly on your granite countertop without scratching the surface. Since it is a natural stone, it does require some maintenance, including sealing. However, when regular maintenance and sealing are performed, your granite countertops can last a long time.
One advantage of using granite for your kitchen countertops instead of an engineered stone product is that every slab has its own unique color and mineral pattern, ensuring your countertop will be one of a kind. Engineered stone products such as quartz will have a much more uniform appearance. Therefore, if having a countertop with a unique appearance is important to you, granite is an excellent option to consider.
In addition, granite is one of the most heat-resistant countertop materials. You can set a hot pan directly on your granite kitchen countertop without concern. On the other hand, engineered stone options such as quartz may become scorched when it comes into contact with a hot pan.
If you’re looking to add value to your home, granite is a great option. Granite countertops are highly valued by many home buyers due to its durability and unique appearance. It’s also often valued higher than other popular options such as quartz because it’s a natural stone material.
As with all stone materials, some drawbacks exist. The most common concerns about granite countertops include:
If you’re on a tight budget, granite countertops may not be the right option for you. Granite is considered a premium stone and as a result, it is more expensive than many other options. You can expect to pay between $80 and $175 per square foot, installed. This cost is slightly higher than quartz. If you’re budget conscious, both of these premium materials may be out of your price range.
The other drawbacks of granite countertops relate to the fact that it is a porous stone. As a result, granite countertops are more prone to staining and may harbor bacteria if they aren’t properly sealed. Sealing should be done by an expert to ensure it is completed properly. You’ll need to seal your granite kitchen countertop when it is installed, and then regular sealings will need to be completed to maintain proper stain and bacterial resistance.
If you prefer a countertop that requires less maintenance and is more stain- and bacteria-resistant, quartz is a better option. The resins in quartz countertops make the surface less porous than granite and as a result, they are less prone to stains and harboring bacteria. These countertops also don’t require sealing.
When properly cared for, granite countertops will stay in great condition for many years. The most important thing to do is to regularly seal them. In most situations, you should seal your granite countertops every 1-2 years for best results. This will prevent staining and ensure bacteria doesn’t absorb in the surface of your granite.
Granite countertops are easy to clean. To protect the sealant, you should purchase a cleaner designed specifically for granite. However, if you’re unable to find a granite cleaner, you can also use any pH-neutral soap. Make sure to avoid cleaners containing vinegar or harmful chemicals which may wear away the sealant. When spills occur, wipe them up immediately to preserve the surface of your countertops.
You should expect to spend $80 to $175 per square foot (including installation) for granite countertops. Factors impacting the cost of your countertops include:
You’ll need to work with a professional to install your granite countertops. This is not a DIY project. Granite is a heavy material, and professional fabrication and installation is required to ensure the job is done correctly.
While granite countertops are expensive, you’ll experience excellent value from them. Due to their high durability, they will last for many years. In addition, the increased value added to your home makes granite countertops a worthwhile purchase.
If you’re considering a granite countertop, The Stone Collection can ensure you get the right slab for your home. Our unique Get Inspired™ Experience delivers a variety of benefits, including:
You can visit one of our locations in Denver, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, Dallas and Fort Worth. Once you pick out a slab, we’ll hold it for free for 14 days, giving your installer plenty of time to pick it up.
Looking for additional information on granite countertops? Contact us today or visit one of our showrooms to speak with a Surface Specialist in person.