What are granite countertops? Granite is a durable and sturdy stone that can make an excellent countertop when ground down to be porous. They have the longest-lasting qualities of all the different types of materials used in kitchen and bathroom remodels. Granite countertops can be found in residential and commercial settings, though they are almost exclusively used in high-end homes where consumers want an elegant and classy look. Here are things to consider when remodeling or updating:

1. Cost

Granite countertops can be quite expensive because they are so hardy and long-lasting. If your budget is tight, consider something else. They also require a very skilled and time-consuming installation process that takes months, sometimes years, to finish. This requires a great deal of money and effort from the contractor who is doing the work.

2. Installation

The installation of granite countertops is a challenging process. It requires very specialized equipment and can only be done by a skilled contractor. A learning curve is also involved with the decorative methods used to install a granite surface. For this reason, most granite countertops are installed by specialists and require professional installation.

3. Maintenance

Once installed, granite countertops are very durable and maintenance-free. However, they tend to discolor over time due to minerals in water and food leaching into the stone. This means you will have to be very careful in your food, water, and cleaning product choices. Frequent cleaning and maintenance are also required because a granite countertop can become stained and discolored over time.

4. Durability

Granite is by far the most durable type of stone used for countertops. With its solid inert composition, it does not tend to break down over time or scratch easily. However, it can crack if subjected to impact or abuse. This durability makes it a great choice for most kitchens and bathrooms where the countertop is likely to be used frequently.

5. Ease of cleaning

A granite countertop is easy to clean and does not show dirt or stains. It also does not require excessive maintenance, as mentioned previously. However, because most people need more money to install granite countertops within their homes, this needs to be considered when deciding if it is the right choice for your remodel.

6. Texture

Granite has a rich and varied texture that can lend itself well to any home décor. Depending on the stone, it can be very smooth to the touch or have grooves and tiny fissures similar to a river bed. There is also the option of getting a polished look that highlights all the wonderful qualities of granite. They come in a number of different colors and patterns so that you can find the perfect look for your kitchen or bathroom.

Conclusion

Granite countertops are a wonderful investment when you are remodeling or updating. It can last you decades and keep its beauty while providing a very elegant look in your kitchen or bathroom. However, they are expensive and require a lot of time, effort, and money to install. There is also the added cost of maintaining the countertop over time because you have to pay to have it cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure it stays beautiful. This is something to consider before deciding if this is the right choice for your home improvement plans.