In recent years, granite countertops have become an underrated choice for kitchens. However, they remain a great choice for anyone seeking a stylish yet durable option as natural stone countertop.
Here is everything you need to know about granite countertops. In this post, we go over:
- What is granite?
- Granite countertop advantages
- Granite countertop disadvantages
What Is Granite?
Granite is a type of igneous rock formed by magma cooling or crystallizing under the Earth’s surface. Typically found in mountains or volcanos, it is known for its distinctive crystals and minerals found speckled throughout the stone’s surface. Common types of minerals found within granite include feldspar, quartz, mica, and amphibole. Although the most common type of granite is dark gray or black, granite is available in a variety of different colors, from white granite to more colorful options. Pair with marble tile flooring for the ultimate luxurious kitchen design look.
An incredibly hard and strong natural stone, granite has been highly desirable for building materials, natural stone flooring, and kitchen countertops over the last century. It can be difficult to understand the pros and cons of natural stone, so we have compiled a list of everything you need to know about granite countertops before making your purchase.
Granite Countertop Advantages
1. Durability & Hardness
The main advantage of granite kitchen countertops is their incredible durability and hardness. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, granite slabs rate around 5-6, which makes it harder than marble, which has a rating of 3-4. The only harder natural stone countertop option than granite is quartzite.
2. Beauty
Granite slabs are absolutely stunning. Known for the striking crystals and minerals mottled throughout its surface, granite has incredible depth to it. When it comes to granite, gray countertops remain one of the most popular choices, but there are other colors available as well, including white countertops and black countertops made of granite. There are even more colorful types of granite available, including green, blue, and red granite. Therefore, do not immediately disregard granite as an option if you prefer the look of a colorful natural stone countertop.
3. Stain & Moisture Resistance
Granite slabs are the ideal material for kitchen countertops because they have high resistance to damage from stains or moisture because they have low porosity. Additionally, since granite typically comes in dark colors, any stains are less likely to show up on granite countertops than marble countertops. However, it is important to properly maintain your granite countertops. Like most natural stone countertops, granite slabs should be sealed with a penetrating sealant to prevent staining. Additionally, be sure to quickly clean up any spilled acidic substances, such as wine or coffee, on its surface.
4. Heat Resistance
Heat-resistant countertops are an important feature in kitchens, especially for anyone who likes to cook. Because it is an igneous rock, granite is incredibly heat resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, any hot pots or pans are unlikely to damage the surface of the stone.
5. Easy To Clean & Maintain
Due to granite’s durability, it is relatively easy to clean and maintain. As it is unlikely to chip or scratch, you do not need to worry about metal pans damaging the surface. Additionally, granite countertops are easy to clean. Simply use a cleaner with a neutral pH, or one specifically made for natural stone. Dark granite countertops are the most low-maintenance option available since their dark coloring hides any possible staining. However, white granite can also last long a long time as long as it is properly cleaned and maintained.
Granite Countertop Disadvantages
1. Price
Since granite is a natural stone, it is more expensive than other kitchen countertop options such as porcelain or quartz. A typical granite slab countertop will cost around $3,000-$4,000, depending on the size, edge, and backsplash options. The installment will incur additional costs, so you should factor it into your budget. Nevertheless, it is incredibly long-lasting and beautiful, which makes it a great investment for your home. A granite kitchen countertop will increase the value of your property and hold up for decades. Additionally, it is less expensive than other natural stone countertop options, such as Carrara marble or Bianco Dolomiti.
2. Sealing
Like all natural stone countertops, granite does require some extra upkeep and care to make sure it maintains its flawless appearance for a long time. Although granite does have low porosity, it should be properly sealed with a penetrating sealant to prevent staining and any moisture damage. Darker granite, such as black granite countertops, does not need much sealant, as some homeowners even forgo the option altogether. However, if you choose a lighter color granite, such as white granite countertops, then sealant is a must. The sealant will prevent the granite from absorbing any liquids left on the surface for a long time. These sealants will typically last around 10 years before needing to be re-applied.
3. Repairs
In the unlikely case that your granite countertop is damaged, it must be repaired by a professional. Typically, they will fill any scratches or chips with a similar colored epoxy. If you find a small scratch or chip, then you can also use superglue as a quick fix. Either way, granite is incredibly hardwearing, so chips and scratches are unlikely. Instead, it is more likely to cause dulled knives or broken plates.
In Conclusion
Granite is a great option for kitchen countertops because they are durable, beautiful, and a good investment. Although they require proper care and maintenance like any natural stone countertop, they are relatively low maintenance compared to marble countertops. Shop Marble Systems’ entire collection of green granite countertops online today.