For many years, granite countertops have been the beacon for every kitchen remodel or new home that is constructed, and there are many reasons to back that up. At the same time, there are a few drawbacks to this popular type of countertop because of its natural origin. In this article, we will breakdown the pros and cons of installing granite kitchen countertops. Hopefully this will help you make a decision about whether or not granite is the right choice for your home
Pros of Granite Countertops
What keeps people coming back to granite time and time again is the uniqueness of the stone itself. Since granite is a natural material, no piece will ever be exactly the same as another. Many homeowners like this aspect, because it provides a rich, natural beauty that is hard to match. Because of the natural and unique look that granite provides, it makes almost any space look high-end and expensive. With over 20 shades of color to choose from, you have plenty of granite countertop choices to complement any kitchen style or design.
Another great benefit of installing granite countertops is that granite is a very durable material by nature, making it resistant to scratches and nicks that are sometimes caused by kitchen utensils. Granite is also heat-resistant, making it ideal to use near ranges, cooktops, ovens, coffee makers, hot plates, and any other heat-producing appliances. Last but not least, granite is also stain-resistant (when sealed properly) so you won’t have to worry about red wine, oil, or grease staining the surface of the countertop.
Cons of Granite Countertops
As beautiful and practical as granite kitchen countertops can be, there are also a few downsides to having it installed. Keep in mind that granite is very porous and needs regular maintenance to stay scratch, heat, and stain-resistant. Granite that is not sealed on a yearly basis or is poorly sealed at any time will absorb wine, juice, and oil and cause permanent stains. Another side effect of improper or lack of sealing is that the granite could harbor potentially hazardous bacteria that could make you and your family sick. Some people may view this regular maintenance as a deal breaker.
Another downside to granite countertops is that heavy items could potentially crack or break the granite. Though these instances are rare, if it happens you will need to completely replace the section of countertop that breaks. You may have a hard time finding a new slab that matches the old one since no two pieces are exact. Using certain cleaning products on granite can also be harmful to the surface, especially when using white vinegar, bleach, or ammonia. These substances have the potential to leave permanent marks or damage the surface of the granite.
Overall, granite is a very popular product when it comes to kitchen remodeling. Many of our clients choose granite over quartz or marble because of its durability and price point. Certain granite styles are very affordable compared to their quartz or marble counterparts. Oftentimes, the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to granite, but it’s up to the homeowner to choose whether or not it’s the right choice for his or her home.