Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are admired for their beauty and durability alike. Any room can benefit from granite countertops because they provide a unique aesthetic in addition to heat resistance and moisture resistance. Granite is formed deep within the earth’s crust over millions of years. This makes it incredibly strong and resistant to lots of wear and tear. Because it is a natural material, each slab will be completely unique and vary in color and pattern. Here are some considerations to factor in when choosing granite countertops.
Design Elements Of Granite
Natural stone can look different from home to home. Granite has a luxurious appearance with speckles, veining, and colors that change based on where the stone was harvested from. There are many design possibilities available from granite. Some slabs will be more bold, while some slabs will have very little color.
Patterns Of Granite
Granite can come in rich tones of blue, green, black, or more soft whites and beiges. This makes it a great option for different home designs and personal styles. There are many granite slabs that can provide you with your desired look. Working with a professional installer will allow you to find the perfect slab for your current home design.
Edge Profiles
All natural stone countertops can have different edge styles. Some of the most popular edge styles are Ogee, Beveled, Bullnose, and Eased. Choosing a rounded edge may help your kitchen or bathroom feel more contemporary and elegant while leaving the edges raw or squared is better for modern homes.
Thickness
Choosing the right thickness for your countertop will depend on personal preference. Granite typically comes in 2 cm to 3 cm thickness. Different thicknesses can also change the longevity of the countertops, but not by much. A thicker countertop will look better in a luxury space, while thinner is better for a more minimalist design.
Avoiding Or Blending Seams
Depending on the size of your countertops, you may be able to create the entire countertops with one slab. However, some large spaces may need multiple slabs to cover the entire space. Seams may be needed to create a cohesive countertop, but our professionals will make them as invisible as possible.
Comparing Granite To Other Stone Types
Granite is a natural stone which makes it a less consistent stone than man-made stones like quartz. Quartz is more non-porous than granite, but granite has a more natural look that some homeowners may like for a modern home. Granite may require sealing to achieve some of the resistant properties of quartz.
Marble is another natural stone that is used for cabinets. However, marble is a much softer stone than granite which means it is more prone to scratching, denting, staining, and discoloration. Marble is more elegant than granite which makes it popular to include marble in bathrooms, spas/salons, or medical offices.
Laminate is a budget-friendly option, but it has no comparison to the quality of granite. The high-end appearance of granite makes it worth the investment compared to lower-quality options.
How To Maintain Your Granite Countertops
Granite does require more maintenance and care than other countertop materials. While it is durable being a naturally created stone, it is more porous than man-made options.
Granite needs to be sealed in order to prevent staining. Sealers should be applied every 1-2 years in order to keep up the appeal of the countertop. How often you seal will depend on the type of stone you choose and how fast water absorbs into the stone. If a drop of water is absorbed quickly into your countertops, it is time to reseal.
Avoiding heat and impact on the granite is crucial for longevity. Although the stone has some heat resistance, hot pots, and pans can cause thermal shock to a granite countertop. Hard drops and heavy objects could lead to chipping on your counters. Being cautious with granite will help it last for longer.
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Other Countertops From OOTW
Out of the Woods offers granite, quartz, marble, and other material countertops for homes and businesses in Utah. Our team wants you to have a functional space, no matter what material you choose. With proper installation, proper cleaning, and maintenance considerations, your countertops can last for decades.
Our team wants to provide you with the highest quality materials for countertops and cabinets. Whether you prefer a bold design or a more simple look, we have options to meet your needs. Color options, different hardware materials, and a variety of finishes are available when you work with OOTW.
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