Every person has countless decisions to make when they choose to renovate one or more rooms in the home. Countertops come into play if the remodeled room is a bathroom or kitchen. Many people choose granite for these purchases, but is it right?
When thinking about granite counters, people must consider the pros and cons. While granite adds elegance wherever used, a person might not enjoy the new countertop for various reasons. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks will allow them to decide if granite meets their needs or if other options need consideration.
The Benefits of Granite
Granite offers countless benefits. Many people are drawn to the material for its beauty. Each slab is unique in its colors and patterns, adding style and elegance to the home. This material is extremely hard, allowing it to resist scratches. Kitchens and bathrooms receive a lot of daily use, so all materials in these rooms must withstand wear and tear. Granite does so effortlessly. It also resists heat, making it the perfect choice for kitchens where hot pots and pans are the norm.
Granite countertops add value to the home in multiple ways. Buyers love seeing these materials in a residence and are willing to pay more for a home where they are present. There is little risk of radiation from granite, although all rocks will emit radiation. A person doesn’t need to worry that granite in the home will harm their health. Granite is a natural product, making it an eco-friendly choice for homes.
The Drawbacks of Granite Countertops
However, granite countertops aren’t perfect. This stone is porous, allowing it to absorb liquids. People must wipe spills rapidly to prevent stains. The stone should be periodically sealed to increase its stain resistance. Sealing the granite will also help to maintain its luster.
The weight of granite may lead to the need for sturdier cabinet boxes, which could increase the remodeling project cost. Furthermore, multiple slabs may be needed if a person wants a large countertop. When installing the slabs, the seams could be visible. A person might find this disrupts the pattern of the countertop.
Granite prices vary by the rarity of the stone. A person could find granite costs more than engineered stone. They should discuss all options with the contractor. In addition, the color and pattern vary based on how the stone was formed. A person might have fewer options as nature cannot be dictated.
Granite or Engineered Stone
Homeowners might find they need to choose between granite and engineered stone. Granite looks natural, thanks to its variations. Engineered stone is more uniform in appearance. Both materials are durable, but granite must be sealed and maintained.
People often assume engineered stone will always be cheaper, but exceptions exist. A contractor can help customers make the right choice for their budget and lifestyle. While granite is more environmentally friendly when it comes to manufacturing practices, engineered stone often contains recycled materials.
People must consider this lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences when deciding between the materials. Many people find they want granite countertops because they love the unique look of this material and find the maintenance requirements aren’t overwhelming. They know adding granite to the home will allow them to have their dream house while increasing the property’s resale value if they decide to move.
A granite countertop will offer timeless beauty to any space. It is the ideal material for kitchens and bathrooms because it is durable. However, a person must know the drawbacks of granite to determine whether they should opt for engineered stone. There is no single answer for everyone, so options are always appreciated.
