When you are talking about making a kitchen classy, ageless, and long-standing, the best investment you will ever make is granite countertops. Granite has been around for centuries, not just because of its over-the-top great appearance, but also due to its phenomenal endurance and longevity. Regardless of what you plan to do, whether you are completely renovating your kitchen or just replacing your countertops, being informed about the different types of granite countertops will allow you to pick the most suitable for your home.
Why Use Granite Countertops?
Initially, we need to explain the main reason for the widespread use of granite for countertops. Granite is a natural stone that forms through the slow cooling and solidification of magma. This process results in a very attractive and unique combination of color, granite structure, and patterning. As a result, the beauty and uniqueness of the granite slab selected for your countertop will never be the same as any other.
The following are some of the reasons why granite tops are people’s favorites:
- Strength: Granite is considered one of the strongest natural stones; thus, it is very resistant to chips, scratches, and heat.
- Beauty: White, black, or cool reds, that is the range of colors and patterns granite can be found in, plus it can be mixed with the ones in between.
- Value-adding: Countertops made of granite are luxury items that, in turn, increase the value of the house at resale.
- Little maintenance required: A sealed granite piece is easy to clean and will not stain or harbor bacteria.
Popular Granite Countertop Types
Since there are infinite varieties, determining the correct variety of granite can be puzzling. Some of the hottest and most attractive varieties of granite countertops that are used for kitchen applications are well explained below.
1. Black Galaxy Granite
Black Galaxy Granite is another striking option. Its black and gold or white freckles provide an ultra-trendy, sleek appearance to any kitchen. It is simply stunning with stainless steel appliances and light cabinetry.
- Best for: Modern kitchens that require a strong contrast.
2. White Granite
White granite boasts an eternal and pristine look. Options like Colonial White, Alaska White, or River White contain light gray and beige veining that looks like marble—but without the hassle of maintenance.
- Recommended for: Small kitchens or those who want to have a bright, airy feel.
3. Ubatuba Granite
Brazilian in style, Ubatuba Granite has dark green tones with gold, brown, and black spots. It’s cheap and very durable, crumb and stain proof, and perfect for big families.
- Best for: Country or country-style kitchen decor.
4. Kashmir White Granite
Light in color, this granite is creamy white with gray, burgundy, and beige undertones. It’s a popular choice because of its soft, natural looks that will complement nearly any cabinetry color.
- Best for: Whoever is looking for a sophisticated, neutral appearance.
5. Blue Pearl Granite
Blue Pearl Granite is for those who prefer something new and trendy. It has a stunning blue and silver appearance. It also has high-quality light reflectivity, giving that hint of sophistication and class in your kitchen.
- Best for: High-end finish contemporary kitchens.
6. Tan Brown Granite
Tan Brown Granite is ideal for people who want earthy, warm colors in their home. It will provide dark red, chocolate, and black hues to give a warm, inviting feel.
- Best suited for: Wood or farmhouse kitchen cabinetry
7. Steel Grey Granite
For a modern yet classy look, Steel Grey Granite features a perfect mixture of charcoal and silver specks. It is durable, easy to care for, and works well for light or dark cabinetry.
- Best used for: Transitional or modern kitchen designs
Choosing The Right Granite For Your Home
When choosing a granite, you will want to take into account both appearance and function. The following tips can help steer your decision:
- Consider Brightness: Black granites look good in the light but will darken a small kitchen or a non-lighted kitchen. Lighter granites will reflect and make kitchens look bigger.
- Coordinate with your cabinetry: You want a color that pairs nicely with your cabinetry and flooring to give the kitchen a complete cohesive feel.
- Consider Care: While all granite is long-lasting, lighter colors are more likely to stain, while darker colors will cover stains.
- Inspect the Slab: Always see the entire slab in person prior to purchase; samples don’t portray the entire pattern variation.
The Process of Kitchen Countertop Installation
A beautiful slab of granite is only as good as its installation. Kitchen countertop installation is a technical process that necessitates precision and proficiency; here’s what to expect:
- Measurement and Template: Your current counters will be measured by the professionals, and they will create an individual template for a flawless fit under the sink edge and everywhere else.
- Stone Selection: You will choose your slab of granite from a supplier according to its color, veining, and texture.
- Cutting and Edge Profiling: The slab is cut to the size required, and edges are profiled in your chosen shape: beveled, bullnose, or ogee.
- Sealing and Installation: Upon granite countertop installation, the slab is fixed to your cabinetry, and sealing begins to eliminate stains.
- Final Check: Installers verify alignment, seams, and polish for the ideal installation.
Tip: Have certified technicians do the installation. Granite slabs are huge, and cutting and installation will involve specialized equipment.
Maintaining Your Granite Counters
Once installed with granite, granite countertops are low maintenance. Soap and water clean the countertop, and seal the surface annually to minimize the entry of spills and moisture. Never apply harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, which will remove the finish.
FAQS
1. How long will granite countertops last?
Granite countertops will look very happy for 30 years or more, far longer than the kitchen itself, provided they are well sealed and maintained.
2. How much do granite countertops cost?
Cost depends upon type, level of rarity, and slab thickness. Granite costs $40 to $100 per square foot, installed.
3. Will granite chip or break?
Granite is very hard but will crack if hit too hard or if improperly installed. Chips on the edges can be repaired by professionals.
4. Does granite need to be sealed?
Yes. A yearly sealing repels staining and water from getting into the stone. Some of the darker granites don’t need to be sealed as frequently.
5. Is granite better than quartz?
Both are great choices. Granite offers that natural look and feel, and quartz offers repeatable color and no maintenance whatsoever. It is just a matter of your personality and lifestyle.
Related Article: Stylish Quartz Countertop Ideas to Transform Your New Home
Final Word
Purchasing granite countertops is a statement of style; it’s an investment that brings added beauty, class, and value to your home. You may opt for the dramatic beauty of Black Galaxy or the sophisticated beauty of Kashmir White, but regardless of the granite you select, the ideal granite you obtain from Desert Sky Surfaces will make your kitchen a beautiful masterpiece.
And with its maintenance by a professional and proper installation as kitchen countertops, your quartz countertop granite installation will be a lasting, forever trendy design feature for years to come. Contact them.
