Granite countertops are found in homes across America. These countertops were introduced as cutting-edge countertop material in the late 1980s. In the beginning, granite countertops were extremely expensive. As more and more countries began mining, manufacturing, and selling countertops, granite countertops became a standard countertop material.
As new technology was introduced, the countertops became more affordable and highly sought after. Homeowners today still love the beauty that granite countertops as well as the many benefits they offer. Here are the top seven reasons why granite countertops are so popular.
Granite is one of the most beautiful stones on earth. Adding granite to your kitchen or bathroom enhances the beauty and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom countertops.
Each slab is unique, which means that you will have a custom kitchen unlike anyone else. Granite countertops feature beautiful swirls, flecks, specks, and veins that run across the entire slab of granite. Each of these adds depth and dimension to countertops.
There are no magic countertops that clean themselves. Any messes will need to be wiped up. However, granite has a natural ability to prevent bacteria, mildew, and mold growth. Additionally, when granite countertops are sealed using a granite sealer, it will reduce the likelihood of foods, liquids, and oils entering the countertop surface.
Granite countertops only require a daily cleaning using a mild detergent, or preferably a cleaner designed especially for natural stone countertops. In addition to this, a stone countertop spray on polish should be used at least monthly to help keep your granite countertops looking great.
Granite countertops have become reasonably priced over the years. As the demand for granite countertops increased and technology advanced, the cost of granite reduced. The cost of granite is based on the type of granite chosen, the thickness of the granite, and the countertop edge profile used.
On average, you can expect to spend about $40 to $60 per square foot for granite countertops. This equates to a final cost of $2,000 to $4,500 for installation and materials. Of course, the exact amount will depend on the total square footage needed and how many cuts will be required for your kitchen countertops or bathroom vanities.
Granite is an extremely durable natural stone, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas like kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities.
Stones are given a hardness rating based on the Mohs scale of hardness. This scale ranges from one to ten. One is used for the softest mineral on the planet, talc. Ten is used for the hardest mineral on the planet, diamond. Granite has a Mohs scale rating between six and eight, depending on the chemical makeup of the piece of granite.
What this means for you is granite countertops can withstand the demands placed on them in the kitchen. The countertop is not easily scratched by appliances, pots, pans, or knives; however, we do recommend using cutting boards to protect your knives from becoming dull quickly.
Maintaining granite countertops is easy when you know what needs to be done. When properly maintained, granite will provide you with many years of usage. In addition to daily cleaning, you will need to seal your granite countertops.
Sealing fills the pits that naturally occur in granite so that liquids and oils cannot penetrate the surface of the granite. Sealers help reduce the risk of staining and make cleanup a breeze. Over time, the sealant will begin to degrade. When this occurs, you will need to reseal your granite countertop.
Granite is a natural stone, which means each piece of granite is unique. The chemical makeup of the stone determines the look of the countertop slab. Granite is available in a variety of colors, including white, cream, black, gray, pink, blue, red, green, etc. The countertop surface may have veins, swirls, flecks, and specks in various colors.
The uniqueness offered by granite countertops means you can find a slab that works perfectly with the colors in your home. For example, if you have shades of blues scattered throughout your home, you can opt for Blue Pearl granite. Another option is to choose a white granite countertop like the ones listed here. If you have a lot of brown colors in your home, you may want to opt for brown granite countertops.
Granite is highly sought after in homes. Adding granite countertops in your kitchen and bathroom increases your property value. Granite countertops are the top choice for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms.
On average, you can expect to earn an immediate ROI (return on investment) of approximately 70 percent. You can maximize your return on your investment by choosing a granite countertop with neutral colors like brown, grey, white, cream, or black.
Whether you are remodeling your current kitchen or bathroom or are building a new home, you should carefully consider which countertops should be installed. Granite countertops are available in a variety of colors. These durable countertops add value to your home, provide the perfect backdrop to your kitchen and bathroom, and will provide you with years of enjoyment.
