Day: August 22, 2021

You’ll often see Granite countertops in home kitchen magazines and movies with its smooth and shiny finish making any kitchen look beautiful. The material has been used in kitchens since ancient times and has since been a popular choice because it`s durable, easy to clean, and beautiful. It makes any kitchen look stylish and amazing hence why many homeowners love to add it as a material for their countertops.

However, there are various types and styles as not all granite is the same! There are many different types of granite that you should know about before making your purchase. In this blog post, we will discuss what you need to consider before choosing one for your kitchens.

What to Know About Granites

Before we further discuss granite countertops, let`s first know more about what granite is. Granite is a natural stone that`s mined from the earth and cut into slabs, which are then polished to give them their beautiful color and nice sheen. It is known to be is one of the hardest materials for surfaces. 

BTW, if you are interested in topics like this, check out this article.

Granite comes in a wide range of variations hence why it is essential to first research and visit the stone yard to personally choose your own piece to prevent any unexpected surprises. 

Advantage of Granite Countertops

Granite Countertops has various advantages and one is that it`s durable. Granite is a natural stone, which means that the minerals and chemicals in granite can withstand wear and tear or scratches from cooking utensils better than other man-made materials like quartz.

Plus, they are also easy to clean because of their naturally smooth surface making them very convenient and nearly maintenance-free. 

These countertops are not only beautiful but functional too! It also makes a great investment for those who plan to sell their homes as they make homes sell for a much higher price. 

The Cost 

As beautiful and durable it may be, Granite Countertops do come with a hefty price tag.  Usually, they are more expensive than other materials for countertops like laminate or quartz, however, it makes up for it various advantages when used for your kitchen surfaces. 

The cost of Granite depends on various factors such as your location (due to availability), the type, project, and contractor. You can minimize the cost by purchasing it through a wholesaler as they charge lesser than most home improvement stores. 

Color Options

Granite countertops have a wide range of selection of colors and patterns hence makes it easier for homeowners to choose what they want. The light color of the granite will make your kitchen look brighter while a darker shade or hue can add depth and character. 

Also, to help you choose the color for your kitchen, there are some stores that offer a guide or sample for you to see and determine the color that best fits your preferences. Whatever color you choose, it will surely help complement the look and design for your kitchen. 

What to Consider

Before deciding on what kind of countertop material would be best suited for your kitchen, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration. These includes:

1. Forms

Granite comes in two types of forms:

• Slabs: This kind of form provides a solid and seamless appearance. Its size is usually about 10 feet long. 
• Tiles: Granite tiles are much more affordable and are easier to install than granite slabs. They do however require more maintenance. 

2. Finishes

There are three kinds of granite finishes that are often recommended for countertops:

• Polished: A polished finish provides a smooth and reflective surface that brings out the texture and color of the granite. It is the most popular choice amongst finishes as it allows easier maintenance.
• Honed: Though offers a smooth look, it is neither smooth and reflective. It helps cover imperfections on the surface as well as cut down on glare. 
• Leather: This kind of finish is produced when fabricators use a diamond-tipped brush across the surface to create a leather-like texture and apperance.

3. Maintenance

Clean granite countertops by daily wiping it using a soft cloth and warm water. Though household cleaners can be used to clean it, make sure that it is mild and does not contain acid and harsh chemical as this can damage and stain the surface.