Granite Countertop Basics

Granite, similar to the marbles and other known stones, is dated as ancient as the earth itself. It is also found everywhere in the world. During ancient societies, it was the preferred material for the construction of public buildings and temples. In the recent past, most builders utilized it for exteriors and pillar finishes. It was not until 1831 that stone suppliers began experimenting with polishing it. Polished granite became the preferred material starting in 1851 when The Great Exhibition of the Industry of all Nations displayed a finished piece.

For countertops, the stone is considered to be one excellent medium because its durability is incomparable to all other stones. Its hardness can only be rivaled that of a diamond. The versatility and durability characteristic of granite countertop makes it the choice of chefs, both professionals and not. Countertops made of granite have the ability to withstand the placement of hot pots and can serve as a great surface for dough and confectionary handling. The countertop‘s natural beauty can complement any style of the wood tone of cabinetry such as sleek modern or French country style. Granite is one attractive stone, which can help provide warmth and color to about any room.

Stone countertops have been the designers ‘ popular choice for decades and have already become popular among the public nowadays. There are practically hundreds of granite color variations of browns, whites, reds, blues, greens, and black. Beige and brownstones are considered most popular because they work perfectly well with a lot of the kitchen color schemes, which allow greater flexibility for many years when it comes to redecorating. “ Movement ” or the design within natural color is exhibited by some granite colors. If movement is observed from the large patterns, the eye can be carried quickly to the countertop surface. Small patterns on the other hand appear more sedate. Movement and color combination means that countertops are never exactly similar.

Granite countertops may be favored for their durability and beauty however they are still not resistant to any damage. Appropriate cleaning and use of some sealers to avoid any staining must be observed regularly. It’s hard stone but it can still be chipped easily. Look for skilled professionals to perform nearly-invisible repairs.

Compared to the other countertops, the granite can be a little more expensive with a minimum price of $60 installed per square foot. The majority of its price does not depend on the stone alone but more on the cutting, transportation, quarry work, installations, and polishing. Homeowners who prefer doing the work on their own are not recommended to undertake a project of this type. Despite the granite’s strength, precise cutting of its slab sheets that are oversized is necessary to fit on top of cabinets. The sheets are also very delicate during transport. Reinforcing base cabinets must be done with special care. The slab level must also be perfectly set. Failure to set the granite countertop properly can result to break when used regularly.

Advantages

A countertop can easily catch one‘s attention when one happens to walk into the bathroom or the kitchen. These are also used on a constant basis for several reasons such as preparing food and storing items.

Countertops made of granite stone are now becoming a normal sight among households in the country. This is because such types of countertops can provide benefits to homeowners. The following are a few of the several advantages of using it at home.

Aesthetic appeal is one granite countertop aspect that is considered most popular. It can provide your bathroom or kitchen with the natural look that the other materials do not have. There are various styles and shades available to match the different interior colors.

  • Compared to the other materials, granite’s durability provides a significant benefit when used in a kitchen. Considered nature‘s hardest stone next to the diamond, the granite cannot be easily scratched or cut. Properly sealing on regular basis will also make it resistant to stains and burns. It can also remain in proper form with regular sealing.
  • Being unique is what makes granite different from other materials. Its various shapes, configurations, and textures can make the bathroom or kitchen stand out from the rest. Its singularity is also able to provide character to homes.
  • The stone’s low porosity makes it resistant to mildew or mold. This is what makes everyday life cleaner and easier even if granite is commonly used in bathrooms or kitchens.
  • A lot of people like having upgraded bathrooms and kitchens and this is where it becomes the ideal choice. A house with granite-made bathroom and kitchen countertops can attract more potential buyers if the owner decides to put up the house for sale. Aside from the attractive look, the counters will also increase a home’s resale value.
  • Unlike bathroom and kitchen countertops made of a laminated or standard type of materials, granite countertop is more durable and versatile and can also improve the functionality and appearance of the house.

Buying Guide for Granite Countertops

For decades, most top-caliber interior designers and architects have been using granite for bathroom and kitchen countertops, flooring, and fireplace facades. Because of its unwavering strength and perpetual allure, demand for natural stonework in homes has increased.

Granite demand may be high however it still remains an expensive choice for countertops at home when compared to other materials. Its price is set at a minimum of $60 per square foot of granite installed. The majority of this price is attributed to the stone‘s excavation, transportation, cutting, installation, and polishing. Second, to the diamond stone, granite is considered nature‘s hardest stone thus cutting its massive sheets to specification needs special equipment. This is the reason why the task is never recommended to homeowners who prefer to do it on their own. Reinforcing cabinetry is important in handling its’ weight. The slab needs to be cut with precision and the set of exact levels. If the exact level is not achieved, the risk of stone cracking while on regular use is possible.

If you like granite countertops’ durability and appearance but cannot afford the solid slabs, why not consider going for the granite tiles? These tiles are actually made from the excess pieces also known as remnants and therefore cost less.

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