What is the Upside and Downside of Granite Countertops?
Granite countertops have become the number one choice for stone countertops. They offer many advantages over other countertop options because they are durable, affordable and enhance the overall design aesthetic of your kitchen. Having granite countertops will bring significant value to your home.
There are many upsides and downsides to having granite countertops. We will discuss these in detail to give you a better understanding of how granite performs when being used for countertop applications.
The Upsides of Having Granite Countertops
Granite countertops offer you a variety of upsides. These include:
- Versatility
- Durability and hardness
- Heat resistance
- Easy Maintenance
Granite’s Versatility
Granite can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, powder rooms or just about anywhere you need to install a countertop. For this reason, granite is considered a versatile stone material that performs well under almost any circumstance.
Granite’s Durability
Granite is a natural stone that is carved from the earth. Due to its pressurized formation process, it is extremely dense and one of the strongest materials. Granite’s hardness allows it to withstand hard wear and tear when serving as a surface or countertop. It is difficult to chip or crack, and it can last for decades when taken care of properly. Its durability is one of granite’s greatest qualities and reasons customers request it.
Granite’s Heat Resistance
Another favorable quality of granite is its ability to withstand heat. Even the highest temperatures will not harm the surface because it is naturally formed in intense heat. It is important to apply a strong sealant because it is more likely to damage a sealant rather than the granite itself. We recommend you buy a high-end sealant so you can enjoy your granite countertops in their everyday use, such as setting hot pots and pans or a curling iron on them, without worrying.
Granite’s Easy Maintenance
Granite rarely etches or stains with proper care and maintenance, and it requires limited repair if ever damaged. It is recommended to have your granite countertops sealed prior to being installed and re-sealed on a routine basis for ongoing protection. Routine care consists of wiping up messes or spills with soap and water as they appear as well as cleaning them with a special stone-intended cleaner.
The Downsides of Having Granite Countertops
The upsides of granite countertops are the reasons that they hold their value. However, you should also be aware of the few downsides that come along with having them.
Granite has more favorable characteristics than not, but understanding both the good and bad gives you the best resources and knowledge for how to treat your granite countertops.
The downsides of having granite countertops are:
- Granite is porous
- Granite should be sealed regularly
- Granite is heavy
Granite’s Porosity
Even though granite does not stain or etch easily, it can become susceptible to these issues because granite is a porous material, meaning it has natural pores and crevices where certain substances can become harmful. It’s important to avoid acidic and non-neutral foods or chemicals for the well-being of your granite countertops.
Due to their porosity, granite should be cleaned on a daily basis if used regularly. Granite can be prone to moisture or bacteria if not properly cared for. A sealant is highly recommended as well as cleaning with soap and water for everyday upkeep.
Granite Should Have a Sealant
Applying a sealant to your granite countertops will improve the longevity and beauty of your stone, especially in high-traffic areas. It can help the surface resist moisture and bacteria. In general, granite countertops are not vulnerable to scratches, chips, etches, or stains; however, without a proper sealant, they can be. A high-end sealant done professionally can last a few years while others, or ones you do yourself, may need to be reapplied on a yearly basis.
Granite is Heavy
For the most part, granite’s density contributes to its durability, strength and hardness. These all seem like great qualities, but they are also the reason that granite requires a supportive base. Many homeowners and customers do not consider the weight that granite countertops put on their cabinets, especially over time. It’s important that you have a strong support in place prior to installing granite countertops to avoid needing them replaced sooner than expected.
Granite and Marble Designs Can Help You Find the Right Granite Slab for Your Next Project
Overall, granite countertops have more upsides than downsides. This is likely the reason that granite has revolutionized home and commercial design and introduced other stone countertop materials such as quartz, quartzite, marble, porcelain, and more.
Granite and Marble Designs fabricates and installs granite countertops in Denver and the surrounding areas, and we can help you find the right granite slab for your next project.
Request a quote or a design consultation with the best source for granite countertops in Denver.