Granite countertops are a luxurious and timeless choice for any kitchen. Their natural elegance and beauty add a unique touch to homes, making them the perfect addition to any kitchen.
When selecting granite countertops, homeowners should be able to view the actual slab fabricated and installed in their homes. This is necessary because each slab of granite is different.
Durability
Granite countertops are incredibly durable. They can withstand heat, scratches, and cracks if properly installed and cared for. They also tend to last longer than other countertop materials, saving you money in the long run.
They are also stain-resistant, making them a smart choice for kitchens. If you find a stain on your granite counter, simply wiping it down with soap and water will remove it and keep it from returning.
When you visit a supplier to explore options for your new granite countertops, ask to see the full-size slab that will be fabricated into your countertop. This is the best way to visualize the movement of color and the overall appearance of your stone. Also, ask your supplier what sealer they use on their granite and if it is easily reapplied. Consider purchasing a lifetime warranty for your counters as well.
Beauty
Granite counters offer homeowners a one-of-a-kind appearance that cannot be replicated with other countertop materials. The natural stone has many patterns and hues, making no two slabs look identical.
With this uniqueness, homeowners can find a countertop that suits their kitchen and sense of style. This allows them to transform their kitchen into an elegant, luxurious space that stands out in their neighborhood.
In addition to this, granite counters are also resistant to heat. This means that homeowners can place hot pans and utensils directly on the surface without fear of damaging the counter or creating a safety hazard in their kitchen.
Finally, the granite countertops are extremely resistant to most chemicals. This is important for homeowners who use their kitchen for cooking or work with many chemicals. This means the countertops will last longer than most other surfaces and won’t need to be resealed as often.
Style
Granite comes in a variety of colors and patterns that make it a standout design choice. From sweeping, flowing patterns to unique mineral inclusions, no two granite slabs are alike, making them a perfect match for any kitchen design.
Granite countertops also offer heat resistance, which makes them the ideal surface for hot cookware and pans. Even better, they are easy to clean and look beautiful for years. All they need is a little TLC now and then in the form of periodic resealing.
For the best results, reseal your countertops with the sealer originally used on installation day. This will ensure that your granite counters remain resistant to damage and stains. However, if you want to refresh your countertops, a professional fabricator can provide a color-matched epoxy that will fill chips and cracks quickly.
Value
One of the main reasons homeowners choose to install granite countertops is that they know it will add value to their home. Even though they will have to spend money on the installation and possibly pay to remove the old countertop, it is a wise investment that will likely return over 100% upon selling.
While the price may seem high, remember that premium building materials are never cheap. Also, because granite is a natural product that is not fabricated in a factory, it will always be more expensive than a cheaper material like laminate.
Other factors influencing the overall cost of granite countertops include color, thickness, and edge details. For example, highly sought-after colors will be more expensive than common hues like gray, black, and white. Similarly, detailed edge designs such as bullnose and eased edges will also increase the price. Homeowners looking to stay within budget can visit multiple showrooms to compare prices and explore options.
