Granite is a natural stone countertop material. It is quarried into larger chunks, which are then sliced and polished into slabs for countertops. It is an attractive, durable building material that is versatile and easy-to-maintain. Granite is also one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials. If you’re looking for a statement piece that is as unique as you are, opt for granite countertops. Before making a decision, you need to look at the pros and cons of choosing granite countertops.
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Pros Of Choosing Granite
Compared to any other material, granite is the most durable option available today. It can last you a lifetime all together. You might recall some famous monuments made from granite. It doesn’t fade or etch easily.
Unlike several other options like wood, marble, or even concrete, granite countertops do not lose its sheen. When you buy a piece of granite, you will get a unique look. No two pieces of granite are alike.
Granite is quarried directly from the Earth’s surface. Granite countertops have beautiful patterns, colors, and styles that will stand out when you install it.
Installing granite countertops is comparatively easier than other materials. It does not require any additional buffing, polishing, or honing. Also, granite comes pre-polished from the manufacturing factory.
Granite is resistant to scratches, stains, water, and even heat. It is a valuable option if cleaning your countertops is a huge concern in your project. In comparison to marble, it is cool throughout the year. It is essential, especially in tropical and humid areas.
Granite is the best material for being out in the sun. You can use it for your outdoor dining table or flooring, too.
Cons Of Granite
When you buy a naturally occurring stone, the price can fluctuate aggressively. The price is variable depending on the manufacturer. You can’t use any real “metric” to calculate the cost.
Marble can give you a seamless and smooth finish, although it is challenging to make granite look more put-together. It is because granite is a coarse material, and it is difficult to match the grains.
Seal your granite countertops regularly to maintain them. While using topical sealers, you may need to seal it every 6 – 12 months. Besides, some professional penetrating sealers can last over 15 years.
Granite countertops are more prone to stains as it is naturally porous. You can curb this by periodically sealing the stone to avoid any liquid seeping into the material.
Also, wipe away any liquid as soon as possible to avoid those nasty stains. Avoid using bleach or ammonia products to clean as it can remove the sealant. Granite is a dense material and is extremely heavy. It will be challenging to transport and install it.
Last, if you wish to purchase a high-end, exotic granite kitchen countertop, you must understand the material and its variations in-depth.
Where To Install and Its Properties
Granite is a valuable option for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops and backsplashes, bathrooms, and various commercial locations. It is a great option to install in your swimming pool, porch, other rooms that have direct sunlight.
As granite is a visually appealing stone, it can be a statement piece in your kitchen and bathroom. When you install granite counters, it can last you forever with proper care. This is why knowing about the pros and cons of choosing granite countertops helps in making a decision.
Granite countertops can outlive almost any other affordable countertop material in your home. It will also increase the value of your home if you decide to sell it.
Granite is highly known as it is stronger and more uniform than marble. It is also available in several color options. Additionally, there are several edge treatments available too. This range of choices makes it possible to use granite graciously in any kitchen setting.
Moreover, granite makes for a fine choice for bathroom and kitchen floors. One of the main pros and cons of choosing granite countertops are that the material is resistant to scratching, moisture, and acid.
On the flip side, it can absorb liquid quickly, causing it to stain. Another downside is to use light color granite; it will make stains and spills more visible. However, if you select a dark color, you will not face many problems.
In comparison to other materials, granite is less likely to chip or crack. Installing granite tile flooring is also a great way to enhance your design.
If you don’t want to upkeep your floor regularly, granite is a great option. With sweeping and mopping occasionally, granite tiles are a valuable investment.
Types of Granite Finishes
Due to its shine, polished granite is suitable for low traffic areas, which further adds to the dynamic pros and cons of choosing granite. When the polish is darker, the stone will appear richer.
On the other hand, honed granite is suitable for high-traffic areas. It is matte and not as reflective as the polished granite. The finish is also more flattering than polished.
Leather/ brushed finish makes the granite surface appear finely structured, silky, and closed. Often, homeowners use this finish for countertops, vanities, and outdoor applications.
Total Costs of Choosing Granite
But how much does granite cost? Homeowners think it is expensive; however, in terms of value, it is quite a bargain. Given the fact it will perform beautifully and effortlessly for many decades, it is easy to invest.
You can’t install your granite countertops without professional help. Professionals will do a much better job at it than DIY-ing it. However, installing thicker and heavier granite slabs is not a bad idea, as it will last you longer. Ensure that your kitchen countertop can withstand the weight.
Also, the thicker the slab, the higher the price. Compare samples and see which thickness and price-point works best for you.
Post-installation, you must seal your granite bathroom countertops professionally. Granite slabs can range anywhere between $60 – $150 per square foot, depending on the type, sealer, color, and finish that you select.
