Beautifully Designed Kitchen Granite Countertops
Major Benefits of Granite Countertops
Beautifully Designed Kitchen Granite Countertops
Are you looking for a stylish and timeless upgrade for your kitchen? Look no further than kitchen granite countertops for a show-stopping transformation. This article will walk you through the benefits of granite countertops, materials, styles, and care to make sure you make the right decision for your kitchen. Granite is an igneous rock made of primarily granite, feldspar and quartz. It's an incredibly durable natural material and one of the best choices for a kitchen countertop. With a variety of colors from hues of white, gray, beige, pink, to browns, blues and black, it's easy to customize your kitchen countertop look. The glossy surface also gives your kitchen a high-end look.
Why Granite Countertops?
Granite is an excellent choice for countertops as it’s extremely strong and resistant to heat and scratches. Unlike other types of stone countertops such as soapstone or marble, stains don’t penetrate into the granite as easily. This makes cleaning substantially easier. Plus, granite is highly durable and thanks to its non-porous surface it also does not allow odors or bacteria to sink in. With reduced maintenance requirements, granite is the perfect balance between practicality and style. Plus, its unique patterns and colors offer completely unique designs. So if you’re looking for something truly special in your kitchen, countertops with granite are the way to go.
Sourcing Your Material
When shopping for granite, it’s important to make sure that it's been properly sourced. The last thing you want is to buy a slab of granite that has natural flaws, or has defects because it was not cut and polished correctly. Therefore, only work with reputable and reliable sources when buying your granite for your kitchen countertops. To make sure your granite is properly sourced, it’s good practice to conduct research in advance. This includes lapidary history (rock collecting) as well as quality tests done by third-party inspectors. Knowing the origin of the granite is also important so that you know what type of treatment and finish it will require over time for optimal results.
Types of Granite Surfacing
Once you’ve sourced granite, the next step is to decide on a surfacing technique. There are several options available, including honed granite, polished granite, and flamed granite. Honed granite is the most popular form of granite finishes and is used for many kitchen countertops. Honed granite has a much smoother feel than polished granite, which can sometimes be too slippery. Honed surfaces can also reduce the appearance of scratches and chips, making them the obvious choice for kitchens. Polished granite has a glossy finish and is often used to highlight certain features or moments in the kitchen. However, because this type of finish is more slippery, it’s important to note that it requires extra cleaning and maintenance. Flamed granite is a process used to produce a textured surface that provides an anti-skid effect. This type of granite is usually used for outdoor areas that may have a lot of rain or snow.
Granite Countertop Maintenance
Keeping your kitchen countertop looking shiny and new is important. Here are a few tips to keep your granite countertops looking great: • Clean the surface regularly using just mild soap and warm water. • Avoid using abrasive cleaners or pads as they can cause streaks or scratch the granite. • Avoid standing water pools and excessive humidity, as this can discolor the granite over time. • Make sure to reapply sealant every six months to ensure the surface is properly sealed. • Wipe up spills quickly and use coasters for glasses and ceramic mugs. • Use area rugs or mats in the kitchen to prevent accidental scratches or damage.
Your Final Step: Installation
Now that you've sourced the right material and decided on the finish, it's time to install your granite countertop. It is important to hire a professional installer to complete the job as amateur installation can lead to problems down the line. Professional installers will have the right tools and knowledge to make sure your granite countertop remains sealed and looks great. By following these simple steps, you can be sure to get beautiful granite kitchen countertops that will stand the test of time. From choosing the right material and style, to regular maintenance and professional installation, granite countertops are a perfect way to upgrade your kitchen. So go ahead and enjoy your new granite kitchen countertops!
Granite Countertops: The Ultimate Kitchen Upgrade
Granite countertops in the kitchen are a classic upgrade that homeowners have been turning to for decades. Whether you’re remodeling your entire kitchen or just sprucing it up, adding granite countertops is an easy and efficient way to upgrade your kitchen. Granite countertops are always in fashion and never out of style. With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect granite countertop to complete your kitchen. Granite countertops are extremely durable and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. They are also more hygienic than other countertop materials as they are non-porous and will not harbor bacteria like laminate or wood countertops. Cleaning is straightforward; simply use warm soap and water. From both a practical and aesthetic standpoint, granite countertops are a great choice for your kitchen. Granite comes in a variety of colours, natural patterns and textures making it easy to match to any type of décor. Granite counters have better resale value compared to other surfaces and can help to increase the overall value of your home. Another advantage of granite countertops is their low maintenance requirements. You won’t need to refinish them like you would with some other countertop materials. However, you should reseal your granite countertops every one to two years to keep the surface looking new and prevent staining. The cost of granite countertops will depend on the type of granite and where you purchase it, but generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $50 and $250 per square foot for installation. You’ll also have to factor in the cost of edging, sinks, and cutouts. Granite is certainly an investment, but it is a timeless look that won’t fade in popularity anytime soon. Choosing the right style of countertops is essential. Various types of finishes for granite countertops will create a look that is unique to you. These finishes include honed, polished, brushed, and flamed. Honed finishes have a soft, matte look and feel while polished finishes give the surface a glossy shine. Brushed accents give the countertops a textured look while flamed finishes provide a more rustic look. Depending on the look you’re trying to create, you may want to experiment with multiple finishes.
When selecting your granite, it's important to understand the different grades available.
Granite comes in three levels of quality: First Grade, Second Grade, and Third Grade. First Grade will be the highest quality, most beautiful granite so when possible, homeowners should try to get this grade. Those who are looking for a bargain may opt for lower grades, however, Third grade granite can often have flaws and scratches that are noticeable. Lighter colors are also trending in 2020. White granite has become popular lately as it creates a timeless elegance. Colorful granite can also create a unique look but tends to be more difficult to maintain its original color. Whatever style or colour you choose, your granite countertop will last for years to come. When it comes to selecting the right contractor for the job, there are some very important things to look for. First, make sure they have good reviews and experience installing granite countertops. You want to make sure you’re hiring a contractor that does quality work. Granite countertops are an excellent way to upgrade any kitchen. With their durability, low maintenance, and stunning visual appeal, these countertops are an excellent choice that will last for years to come.
5 Inspirations: A Granite Countertop for Every Style
What You Need to Know About Kitchen Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a great choice for any kitchen. Their beauty and durability make them an ideal addition to any home, but before installing one of these countertops in your kitchen, there are several things you need to know.
Where to Buy Granite Countertops
The best place to buy granite countertops is from a local dealer who specializes in granite. They should be able to provide you with samples of stone and will have the expertise and resources to install it correctly. If you are looking for a more cost-effective option, there may be retailers that offer discounted granite countertops, although you will want to make sure they are of the highest quality.
Price Points
Granite countertops come in a variety of price points. The cost depends on the type of granite you select as well as the quality of material and installation required. It's important to get quotes from different dealers so you can compare them and find the best deal.
Maintenance and Care
Granite countertops require little maintenance and can last for years if cared for correctly. Regularly cleaning the surface with a damp cloth or mild cleaner is the best way to keep it looking its best. You should also take steps to protect it from heat damage by using trivets and hot pads.
Design Options
Granite is available in a variety of colors, textures, and pattern, so it’s easy to find the perfect option for your kitchen. Whether you are looking for a bright and bold statement or a subtle and sophisticated look, you are sure to find something that fits your style.
Installation Process
Installing granite countertops is not a DIY job. Granite needs to be cut and fitted perfectly to fit your kitchen and come out looking its best. A professional installer will be able to do this quickly and efficiently.
Sealing Granite Countertops
Granite countertops should be sealed with a special sealer to protect them from damage caused by water and other liquids. The sealant must be applied correctly and regularly to ensure that your countertop remains protected and looks its best.
Pros and Cons
Granite countertops come with a variety of advantages and disadvantages. While they are durable and attractive, they can be costly to purchase and install. Also, they require regular sealing to prevent damage from water and other liquids. Additionally, they can be difficult to clean.
The Takeaway
If you're looking for beautiful and durable countertops for your kitchen, granite is a great option. With plenty of design options and easy maintenance, granite is a great choice for any kitchen. But remember to investigate all aspects, such as where to purchase, pricing, maintenance and care, design options, and the installation process, before making a final decision.
