Granite Countertops Pros And Cons

Are you planning to remodel your kitchen/ bathroom and install a new countertop therein? If yes, then it is the time you started checking out the various options that are available in the market, in relation to the countertop material, such as marble, granite, porcelain, and the like. One of the best options that you have in this context is granite, which is quite durable and even resistant to bacteria, making it extremely hygienic. In case you want to explore all the pros and cons of granite countertops, read on.

 

 

One of the main pros of granite countertops is that they are simply amazing to look at. The elegance offered by them can hardly be matched by any other material. In fact, such is the appeal of these countertops that you would be encouraged to cook up a luscious meal for dinner, just by having a look at them.

 

The sheer variety offered by granite countertops, be it in terms of colors, patterns, grains or designs, is almost endless. You would hardly be able to find such a wide choice with any other countertop material. Talking precisely, more than 3000 granite countertop designs are available at present, from which you can take your pick.

 

Whether you want to give a natural look to your granite countertop or prefer the polished and elegant appeal, granite is the option for you. When used in its unfinished form, the countertop can add an earthy appeal to your kitchen. On the other hand, its polished version can lend your kitchen the class and grace that a contemporary look requires.

 

If you are one of those who look for durability, in the countertops of their house as well, then granite would serve your needs perfectly. Install a granite countertop in your house and forget about replacements for years at end. Apart from having a long life, a granite countertop also requires low maintenance and is resistant to chemicals as well.

 

Another major property of a granite countertop, which greatly works in its favor, is that it is highly water resistant. In other words, if you happen to spill water or any other liquid on the countertop, there is no risk of it seeping inside and causing damage or staining. Even if a few minutes have passed, you can simply wipe the spill and forget all about it (though early cleaning is advisable).

 

Amongst the other advantages of granite countertops, you can count in the fact that they have a high resistance to heat. So, in case you are planning to install them in your kitchen, you can forget about the tension of keeping the hot pan on the countertop. Another positive quality of granite is that it is resistant to a number of bacteria and thus, quite hygienic.

 

 

The major disadvantage of granite countertop, which seems to put off many people, is that it is quite expensive, especially when compared with other stones and materials. At the same time, even the cost of installation is much more than the other types of countertops.

 

If you go for a granite countertop, you will have to undertake regular sealing of the same. Otherwise, there are chances of the countertop absorbing liquids and developing stains. Apart from being cumbersome, the regular sealing involves expenditure as well.

 

Each slab of granite is unique, in terms of color, pattern as well as grain. In case, because of any reason, you have to replace each one or more tiles of your granite countertop, there is a little chance of getting exactly the same pattern again. You can counter this disadvantage by purchase a surplus amount of the selected pattern, at the time of initial installation.

 

Other Disadvantages
In case you end up sealing your granite countertop with a preexisting stain, it will remain there forever. At the same time, if hit by a hard, sharp object, the countertop can crack easily. Granite is heavy also, so it requires additional structural support, especially in spans and cantilevers.