Caring for granite countertops is easy – but you need to know a few tips.
Granite is still one of the most popular countertop choices. It is beautiful and looks good with almost any kitchen style. It is available in a wide range of colors and can either be polished or honed (which has less shine and a much more soft, natural feel). If you’re considering your next countertop material, here are some of the pros and cons of granite countertops.
Granite Pros
- Every granite slab is totally unique. This is because granite is 100% natural stone, mined as single, large slabs with no two slabs the same.
- You can obtain some colors of granite in jumbo slab sizes, suitable for using on large island cabinetry. This will give you a clean countertop with no unsightly joining seams.
- You have a choice of hundreds of shades of granite color to choose from and each and ever one is beautiful and impressive to look at.
- Granite generally stands up to normal use quite well (although it is better to use a cutting board if you don’t want your knife blades to dull).
- Granite is suitable for outdoor use. Because granite withstands the elements in its natural mineral state it will not weather or fade.
- With the correct sealing by a professional, your granite countertop will be waterproof and stain resistant.
Granite Cons
- Replacing a large countertop will require a few different joined slabs with visible seams. A professional will be able to make the seams as inconspicuous as possible using the best seam color to match the granite.
- Granite is naturally absorbent. Unless your countertops are properly sealed, they could absorb oil, wine and juice causing a stain that you won’t get rid of. Granite countertops need to be resealed once a year to avoid stains and bacteria build-up.
- Though tough and long-lasting, granite countertops could chip or crack if you drop a heavy item on the countertop’s corner.
A lot of factors need to be considered when choosing countertops for your kitchen. Call us at Innovative Kitchen and Bath in Kirkland and one of our specialists will help you through the decision-making process, enabling you to make a good choice for your family.
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