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There is something elegant about the look and feel of granite countertops! This elegance alone, is enough reason for many home and business owners to decide to use it their space. After all, it adds an air of opulence while still being usable and, some might even say, practical. But, are granite countertops right for every space? The answer to that depends greatly on who will be using the space and be responsible for any maintenance needs.
So, if you find yourself faced with choosing whether to use granite, marble or perhaps some other natural material as a countertop, you will want to be sure you understand the positives and negatives of the beautiful stone known as granite.
- Granite countertops come in over 3,000 colors and do not fade with time. Also, each slab has its own unique pattern and movement, so no matter your style of color scheme, you are certain to find something that works for your space.
- There are dozens of custom edges and finishes from which to choose, thus allowing you to create a totally custom look.
- Granite countertops, when properly sealed and maintained, are virtually scratch, stain and chip resistant; of course, that doesn't mean you should throw out your kitchen cutting boards and do your prep work directly on the countertop!
- If you love to bake, then it is a great choice as it is perfect for making cookies, candies, bread dough and other foods that are best prepared on a cool surface.
- It is heat resistant. If you forget to grab a heat pad for that 400-degree pizza pan, it won't matter-granite is created by heat, so setting something hot on it, isn't going to hurt it!
- The only surface that is harder than granite is a diamond.
- Granite countertops add a minimum of 10% to the re-sale value to your home.
- It will last for years. This is both a positive and a negative as that means your investment is well worth it; however, should you have granite installed and later decide you don't like it then removal can be costly and chances are, you will need new cabinets, too.
- Granite is not overly porous (unlike marble) making it chemical and acid resistant.
Negative Characteristics of Granite
- Cost-granite is expensive because of labor for its removal from the quarry, the work involved in cutting it and then installation.
- It does not have a uniform pattern or color and contains natural cracks or pits. These "imperfections" are actually, what lends to its beauty and "movement" but if one likes things completely uniform, then this may not be the best choice.
- It cannot be used as a cutting board because it will dull your knives.
- Granite countertops should be installed by a qualified professional-it is not a do it yourself project!
- Granite countertops need to have the sealant re-applied a least once every two years to prevent staining or fading.
- Seams are visible, regardless of how good the installer is. Ideally, an installer will endeavor to have seams in areas where they least likely to be noticed
Granite is a beautiful choice in countertop covering. It can make a drab or basic space look elegant and rich.
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