1. Granite Counters Are One-of-a-Kind
Unlike synthetic countertops, granite is created by nature. Each granite slab has unique fissures, swirls, and flecks of shiny iron bits. There may be 10 slabs at a showroom—all from the same quarry—with wildly varying characteristics. If you have a granite countertop in your kitchen, you know you have a piece that is truly one-of-a-kind.
2. They Add Value to Your Home
Quality kitchen elements like granite counters make your space look more high-end and updated. Granite counters attract potential buyers, as they know they’re getting something they won’t have to update when they move in. The more turnkey a home is, the higher its value will be.
3. Granite Countertops Are Extremely Durable
Different countertops have different prices, care requirements, and durability. Granite has a very high hardness rating. This means it can stand up to scratches and accidents better than other options (especially marble). For active families and busy kitchens, this is an exceptionally valuable feature.
4. Granite Is More Sustainable Than Synthetic Countertops
When considering natural stone versus synthetic stone countertops, natural stones like granite are the more sustainable option. This is because they require minimal processing before they make it to your kitchen. Synthetic materials call for a lengthier and more complex production process, which may include toxic chemicals and releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
5. They’re Repairable
Though granite countertops are highly resilient, accidents happen. Luckily, even if your granite counters get cracked or chipped, they are usually repairable. A countertop repair pro near you can often use filler materials to get your granite looking good-as-new again. If a heavy pot slips from your hands, or if a glass jar falls from your cabinet, it’s nice to have that extra peace of mind.
When choosing the right countertop, you can’t go by looks alone. You’ll also need to consider how well it’ll hold up against spaghetti sauce, red wine, or other spills. It’s also important that countertops don’t absorb all the icky germs and bacteria from raw meat during meal prep. Provided they get sealed properly at least once a year, your granite counters will wipe clean of all these messes.
7. They Are Heat-Resistant
Since granite gets formed naturally via pressure and heat, granite counters have built-in heat resistance. While it’s still a good idea to use potholders, you won’t have to worry about the scorching you’d get with other countertop varieties. Get in touch with a top-rated countertop installer near you to learn more.
What Are the Benefits of Granite Countertops vs. Quartz?
If you’re shopping for natural stone countertops, you’ve probably considered granite and quartz varieties. While both of these stones are extremely durable, the biggest difference between quartz and granite is that granite stays true to its color the longest. Quartz can become discolored over time if left in direct sunlight. If you have a skylight in your kitchen, or just a lot of natural sun coming in, this is definitely something to think about.
Afton Jackson
Having a heat-resistant material for your kitchen will really help a lot when it’s time for busy preparations. This is a common thing when the holidays arrive, so I can see us really appreciating some new upgrades for our kitchen in the form of these countertops. I’ll ask a remodeling contractor to help us out with this by getting some granite into our kitchen.