Did you know? Granite countertops have been around for about 100 years or so. Of course for about the first 50 years, they were only available to the super wealthy. Although still considered a high-end finish, granite countertops are now more prevalent and thus available to more people. Needless to say, granite countertops have stood the test of time as a classic finish in many homes.
For those homeowners seeking a natural stone finish, granite is a popular option. Just as it’s name implies, granite is a 100% natural stone that is removed from quarries from around the world in large sections. This stone is then sliced into sheets which is ultimately custom cut to fit in whatever home application it is used for.
Pros of granite countertops
- Timeless: As mentioned previously, granite countertops have been around for over a century. Needless to say, this finish has stood the test of time as a classic finish in the home.
- Natural: For those looking to keep the home as natural as possible with various earth tones and materials, granite is the perfect option for countertops.
- Durable: If you are looking for a stone that will last, granite may be best your best option. Granite is known for being highly durable and resistant against heat and scratching. Of course, proper sealing is highly recommended.
- Unique: Like any natural material, each piece will be different from the next. Therefore, no two pieces of granite will look identical.
- Resale value: Although granite can be installed in virtually any room, it is most famous for its place in the kitchen. This is particularly important given the fact that the kitchen is considered the centerpiece of the home. Oftentimes, homeowners can expect to recover approximately 25% of of the retail cost of recently installed granite countertops.
Cons of granite countertops
- Cost: Long considered a high-end finish, granite is certainly priced accordingly as such. Of course, the durability of this stone can make up for the initial high cost.
- Maintenance: In order to prevent staining, granite must be sealed annually or so. In addition, sealing the granite can also minimize bacteria growth.
- Professional installation: In order to be installed correctly, it is highly recommended to have a professional install your granite.
- Repairs are difficult: Although extremely durable, granite can be damaged with sufficient force. If it is cracked or broken, it is typically not feasible to repair. This may result in having to replace it.
Summary
In closing, if you desire to have a classic, high-end finish in your home, it is hard to argue against granite countertops. Although granite typically comes with a higher price tag, it will also likely last your for the entire time that you live in the house. With so many home design trends coming and going over the years, granite countertops have certainly stood the test of time. As with other high-end stones such as marble, granite will also require some maintenance in order to keep it looking new.
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