Granite countertops are a uniquely beautiful and practical design choice. Granite comes in an almost limitless variety of colors, patterns and styles, so you’re sure to find a form that fits your home renovation plans.
Pros of Granite Countertops
Installing granite countertops can add a new feel to your kitchen, bathroom or home, and the strong material can increase the value of your home.
Some of the most notable benefits of choosing granite material are that it is:
- Durable: Granite countertops are built to last. They’re resistant to heat, scratches and stains, which is important when you’re using sharp knives and hot pans. It can even withstand harsh cleaners like bleach, although they’re generally not necessary to keep the counter clean.
- Natural: Granite does not contain synthetic materials or additives that can degrade over time. With the proper sealant, granite will last for decades. It’s also more sustainable than many natural materials, as it does not require much chemical processing, and one granite quarry can provide enough material for thousands of countertops.
- Sanitary: Once sealed, granite is nonporous, leaving no room for bacteria, germs and moisture to seep in. Other popular countertop materials, like marble or wood, are more porous, making them more challenging to clean. The surface of sealed granite countertops makes them extremely low-maintenance. All you have to do is wipe off spills soon after they’re made and reseal it every few years.
Cons of Granite Countertops
On the other hand, you also have to consider the disadvantages of granite countertops:
- It needs sealing: Without a good sealant, granite is quite porous and can degrade quickly. However, most granite slabs are presealed before installation, and the initial sealing can last up to a decade.
- It’s heavy: Granite is a rock, and as such, it’s quite heavy. You have to make sure your counters or whatever you’re laying the slab on are strong enough to support its weight.
Is It Worth Getting Granite Countertops?
It’s clear that the pros of investing in granite countertops outweigh the cons in many cases. As a family-owned business that’s spent over 60 years providing countertops to homeowners and contractors, we have the knowledge to find you the countertop materials that will make your dream home renovation come to life.
Take a closer look at the granite offerings and other countertop materials at Henry H. Ross & Son and contact us for a free quote.