Granite Tops

One question I am asked almost every day is “Should I put granite tops in my kitchen or bathroom?” Today let’s explore the pros and cons and some things to keep in mind.

 

Granite is one of the hardest stones and not subject to etching by household cleaners or scratches by knives or pots and pans being drug across the surface. According to the Marble Institute of America, both prior to and after the availability of sealer for granite, no cases of food poisoning, radon or food preparation issues associated with sealed or unsealed granite have been reported. Its natural resistance to bacteria makes it a perfect choice for kitchen countertops. If you clean your tops after each meal, you should not have any issues. A mild soap and water is all that is really needed. Keep in mind that different procedures and cautions are needed when you have marble, travertine, limestone or other porous materials for your countertops.

 

One pro and con is the color of granite. If you are looking for a very uniform color or pattern, then granite may not be the material for you. There are some granites that have very little pattern, so take a stroll through a warehouse before you rule it out. If you are looking for something to be the centerpiece of the space, there are some pretty fantastic granite colors that will do just that. I often recommend selecting your countertop surface first and then working around that. You may fall in love with a particular slab and it’s much easier to design around that than fitting your countertop to the other selections you have already made.

 

Pricing-granite may be your least expensive solid countertop option, but it could also be your most expensive. Supply and demand, finish and edge profile all play a part in the cost.

 

Before you decide to replace your existing countertops with granite, take a critical look at your cabinets. Are they strong enough to support this added weight? Do you want to replace them soon? It’s much easier to replace base cabinets before granite tops are put on than after. Don’t get the cart before the horse.

 

Are you replacing your countertops? I’d love to see your before and after pictures! Email me at jessica@webbercoleman.com and let me know if you have any questions regarding kitchens and bathrooms.