Granite Countertops
Granite is a completely natural stone quarried from the earth. Being a natural stone it is always beautiful with its solid feel and versatile usage. Many people think nothing can compare to real stone in terms of colors and durability, and they stick to granite countertops regardless of the advancing technology in engineered stones.
Granite kitchen countertops are timeless and elegant. They are a bit high-maintenance since they are natural stones, but they offer you excellent beauty in return. You can have granite surfaces in almost any space in a house. Kitchens and bathrooms are the most common places where you can use exceptional quality granite.
Granite Specifications and Applications
Granite is a coarse-grained magmatic rock. Found in abundance as massive boulders, granite has been used as a versatile construction and design element for many years. Granite countertops, particularly, are one of the quintessential additions in any kitchen or bathroom. Therefore, most home improvement projects include granite in one way or another.
Generally, granite slabs can be customized to the size specified in your project. However, an average slab size is 10 feet long and 5 feet wide. The thickness is another point to be considered. Usually, they offer slabs ¾ inch and 1¼ inch thick. The thicker slabs are used for high-traffic worktops, while the thinner cut stones are better for vertical uses, such as kitchen backsplashes.
Though it is usually associated with kitchen countertops, granite uses are many. Bathroom vanity tops, flooring, monuments, wall tiles…etc. are some other places to use granite.
Granite Colors
When choosing the right granite countertops color and pattern are the key factors to consider. As a natural stone, granite comes in unique colors and patterns. Therefore, each granite slab is different. However, we can still categorize them into main color types.
White Granite Countertops
White interiors emit a sense of purity, freshness, and peace. Landmark offers some of the best examples of white granite stones, such as Moon White, Ornamental White, and Salinas White.
Gray Granite Countertops
Black Granite Countertops
Black countertops are perfect for those seeking a sleek and elegant look at home. They look even better in large bright, white kitchens. One beautiful example of black granite stones is Black Pearl, which you can find at Landmark.
Black Granite Countertops
Black countertops are perfect for those seeking a sleek and elegant look at home. They look even better in large bright, white kitchens. One beautiful example of black granite stones is Black Pearl, which you can find at Landmark.
Can't Decide? There are hundreds other options. Contact us for an expert help.
Why Should You Choose Granite?
Granite stones are well-known for their unique patterns and strength. When buying a granite slab you know that it was once beneath the earth’s surface, and is now yours. Though it looks similar to some other stones around, it is not exactly the same. This is a fantastic feeling for many homeowners as it feels exclusive and unique to their household. Also, granite is one of the hardest materials used in residential and commercial settings. It promises a long service life with the proper maintenance. It is resistant to heat and scratches, allowing users to enjoy their surfaces more thoroughly without the fear of ruining it.Why Should You Choose Landmark Surfaces?
Landmark Surfaces offers the highest quality at affordable prices. You will find all the best granite models at Landmark. In addition, we are dedicated to getting you the best samples of granite kitchen countertops and other granite surfaces.
Landmark is a local store that you can easily drop by to see and feel the mesmerizing granite countertops in Chantilly, Alexandria, and Fredericksburg. Note that seeing the natural stones with the naked eye and touching them in person is very important. Apart from selling, we are also installing the granite in Northern VA. So, you can get your granite slabs without making too much work for yourself.
Granite Countertops: Advantages and Disadvantages
Granite countertops are so popular, but you should still know about the advantages and disadvantages of granite before getting caught up in the hype.
Pros of Granite
- It has a luminous surface that is unique in pattern.
- The surface is resistant to daily scratches and spills.
- It is resistant to high temperatures.
- It is easy to clean.
- It adds a good resale value to your property.
Cons of Granite
- Since each slab is unique, finding the same slab after a while is almost impossible.
- Installation can be expensive.
- It needs occasional sealing for maintenance.
- Being hit with heavy objects can crack it.
Granite Price
According to Forbes, the average granite countertop cost per square foot is between $40 and $100. It can go even higher by adding the labor costs of installation.
There are some common types of granite slabs that you can find everywhere, easily. Then there are some rare types of granite slabs, which are pretty scarce in nature. Granite countertops cost more if you are looking for something very rare. However, there are many beautiful options for granite slabs with various colors and patterns. Therefore, they are much more affordable than the rare ones.
How to Take Care of Granite?
Here are some key maintenance routines that will help you lengthen the life of your granite countertop.
Use A High-Quality Sealant
Don’t Put Hot Pans Directly on Surface
Use Cutting Board
How to Clean Granite Countertops?
Once you get it sealed, cleaning is even easier. You can use some warm water and a little bit of mild soap. Drying the surface with a lint-free cloth immediately after cleaning is also very helpful in keeping the luster and beauty of the slab.
FAQs
What Type of Rock is Granite?
Granite is a phaneritic igneous stone, which means it is a magmatic rock.