Granite countertops are a staple in many new and updated American kitchens. They offer many benefits that can add to your home’s value and appeal.
This natural stone is formed as lava cools and contains several minerals, including mica, quartz and feldspar, that give the countertop its unique appearance. It’s also bacteria-resistant and durable.
It’s Durable
Granite is one of the trendiest counter materials on the market today, and it’s also one of the most durable. Whether making meals, cutting meat or veggies, or entertaining guests, you want your countertops to withstand everyday wear and tear.
Granite is a natural material that forms through the cooling and solidification of molten magma beneath the Earth’s crust. This process creates a wide variety of colors and patterns that make no two slabs of granite look alike.
If properly sealed, heat, cuts, and scratches won’t harm your granite countertops, but periodic resealing is necessary to fend off stains. If your granite countertop is damaged, you must have it professionally repaired.
It’s Versatile
Granite is a natural rock that’s extracted from quarries in large blocks. This makes it one of the most durable countertop materials available. It resists heat damage and scratches better than most other types of countertops. It also boosts resale value.
You can choose from a wide range of color options. Many types of granite feature unique patterns and veining that create a unique look. These variations are caused by volcanic events that occurred millions of years ago.
A popular granite choice is White Ice, which features whites, grays, blues, and blacks in a patchwork pattern. This type of granite is visually striking and pairs well with darker woods.
Countertop installers need to reseal your granite countertops periodically to keep them stain-free. However, it’s easy to clean granite with mild soap and water. Its smooth surface repels dirt and moisture, which helps it resist stains. The material also holds up to cutting and abrasion. In Consumer Reports tests, hot pots, serrated knives, and abrasive pads didn’t harm granite countertops.
It’s Beautiful
Granite countertops are a timeless beauty that complements any kitchen design. Their natural color variations and unique patterns make each countertop a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Light reflects off the small crystals in each slab, creating a gorgeous shine that changes throughout the day as the lighting in your kitchen changes.
Compared to quartz countertops, granite has a more textured surface that adds visual interest to your kitchen. You can also choose from various edge details to customize the look of your countertops. The eased edge is the most popular choice and works well with traditional and transitional kitchen styles and high quality cabinets for any remodel.
Homebuyers are drawn to the beauty of granite countertops, which often result in a higher sale price for your home. The National Association of Realtors lists upgrading your countertops as one of the best investments to increase your home’s value. In addition, granite counters are durable enough to last a lifetime and beyond, making them an excellent long-term investment for your family.
It’s Affordable
Granite countertops are expensive – but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach. With the right research and comparison shopping, you can find granite countertops that fit your budget.
The key to finding a good price is to shop around and be wary of dirt-cheap prices that could signal sub-par quality or unlicensed work. To ensure you’re getting a fair price, ask friends and family who recently upgraded their kitchens for recommendations, and visit several local companies that offer countertop services.
Another factor that affects pricing is the amount of energy it takes to quarry and transport the stone. Suppose you can choose a local company and use repurposed or salvaged granite to minimize the environmental impact. It is also worth remembering that granite may contain radon, which can pose a health risk. The EPA recommends testing and mitigating high levels of radon in homes.