What to know about granite countertops
So, you’re in the market for new countertops. You should take a close up look at granite. Chances are you won’t have to look any further. Before you take a look in person, let’s enlighten you to the many perks that come with granite countertops.
We’ll cut straight to the chase. Granite offers:
- A look of elegance and comfort
- A plethora of design options
- Durability
- Hardness
- Heat resistance
- Scratch resistance
- Protection against moisture (if sealed)
- Easy maintenance
- An appeal that your home just didn’t have before
Appearance
Now, let’s elaborate some. First off, the most endearing aspect of granite is of course its appearance. It offers much more, but at the top of a consumer’s check list is most often going to be appearance. Go ahead and check it off.
Granite countertops will give your kitchen, bathroom, or home bar a vastly improved look. They will certainly take over the look of a room, and only in a good way. One really cool fact about granite is that every slab is different. Moreover, your granite countertops will truly be unique.
Granite can be purchased in numerous different hues and etches. The natural stone is generally chosen in gray, black, white, or tan hues—the colors of stone. Granite does not necessarily stand out in color (you won’t find it in red of blue), but it does stand out in design and naturally beauty.
Durability
As granite is a natural stone, it is extremely hard. In fact, granite is among the hardest of stone countertops. Quartz is right by its side; however, no other stone countertop matches granite’s hardness. Granite’s hardness makes it durable and resistant to scratches. Even the biggest of impacts will not damage granite. Certainly, no common kitchen or bathroom mishap will harm it.
Ultimately, it is so difficult to damage granite, making its life expectancy practically infinite.
Easy Maintenance
Another benefit of granite is its ease of maintenance. Granite countertops do not require any special cleaning supplies. The typical water, soap and sponge method will do the trick. One important note, however, is that granite is porous. Porous, meaning liquids can penetrate the surface if not cleaned right away. For this reason, it is important that you have your granite countertops sealed. A protective seal will prevent all types of liquids from penetrating its surface.
Sealing is an added cost to installation, but it is well worth it in order to maximize the pristine condition of granite. It is also recommended that granite be re-sealed every year or two to keep it best protected.
Purchase & Installation
Granite is difficult enough to install to where you will want to hire a professional to execute the task. The stone is considerably heavy, plus, cutting granite to shape a counter requires tools and precision. Given its look and durability, granite is among the pricier countertop materials. Generally speaking, granite is found to be more expensive than limestone and travertine, but less expensive than quartz and marble. All in all, the benefits of granite, especially the aforementioned appearance and durability, make it worth every penny. Keep in mind, granite countertops are an investment, not a quick buy.
Hopefully you’ve learned a ton about granite. If, however, you have questions or would like even more detail about granite, reach out to Granite Artists. Our experts have answers to all of your questions. We provide knowledge, but also granite supply and installation. Contact Granite Artists today! Also, please visit our blog for additional helpful information.
