When remodeling your kitchen, you want everything to be perfect. This includes the perfect countertops. Here are some pros and cons of granite countertops to help inform your decision.
Price wise granite countertops are better option than Quartz countertops.
Installed granite prices rage from $30/SF and up and Quartz prices are from $35/SF.
What are Granite Countertops Made of?
Granite has a mixed stone look to it with various colors and unique splotches of stone. This is because it’s made up of interlocking mineral crystals. This means that granite isn’t just one stone, but instead many stones combined. This can include feldspar and quartz, most commonly.
With such a variety of crystals mixed together, granite makes a unique countertop choice every time. Granite is also unique, because unlike Quartz, it’s not a man-made material. Granite is made from the cooling of lava or compression of minerals, mixing many different crystals and elements together to make one piece of beautiful stone.
Advantages of Granite Countertops
There are many unique and varied pros to granite countertops. For one, granite countertops will not crumble under heat. Put that hot pan on your granite countertop and no marks or dents will be made.
Also, Granite is highly scratch resistant. It’s even not recommended to cut on granite because it will dull your knives. Also, since it’s a porous material a sealer will need to be applied. However, being porous can actually help liquids evaporate from the surface more easily. Countertops like Quartz will hold onto stains more easily than granite.
Disadvantages of Granite Countertops
One disadvantage is the color selection. While made of various crystals, they all mesh together to create a similar color. The main problem you run into with granite is when it isn’t sealed or is sealed incorrectly. Many granite colors can last without a sealer for 10 years. However, it’s best to seal the countertop once a year, specially the exotic granite colors that are more porous and can cause problems.
Which to Pick
Man made Quartz material is being tested for many years and some customers are very happy with Quartz and some are complaining about the material getting discolored or dirty. On a long run if you select good quality granite, you will be better off. Granite is a great option for your home. Weigh the pros and cons and compare this stone to other options before deciding on one.
