When it comes to kitchen or bathroom countertops, one of the most popular and premium materials that homeowners prefer is granite. Even if synthetic composite and engineered stone or quartz countertops are also gaining popularity, granite is still widely used today.
Genuine granite countertops are made from slabs that have been cut from stone blocks extracted directly from the earth. This gives your kitchen a natural appeal that synthetic materials cannot replicate. Granite also performs exceptionally well as a countertop because it is resistant to scratches and heat. It also has an excellent resistance to stains, which can be further increased by regular sealing.
Different Kinds of Granite Countertops
1. Modular Granite
Modular granite is an affordable form of this building stone. It has large segments that can be laid side-by-side to create a countertop. When modular granite is used to make a countertop, it will have seams. It is worth noting that it will have fewer seams compared to tiles. If you prefer to do DIY projects, then modular granite is your friend.
2. Granite Tiles
Granite tiles for countertops are similar to the ones used for flooring. They are installed and placed in the same way as porcelain or ceramic tiles. Unfortunately, granite tiles can have the same drawbacks when used for countertops. One of them includes grout seams that can be difficult to maintain. However, don’t fret. If you want to use granite tiles, you can easily install them on your own since they are a DIY-friendly material.
3. Granite Slabs
Granite slabs are the most commonly known type of granite. They are widely used for countertops and are usually solid pieces of extracted or quarried stone. Granite slabs are also notable for not having seams. They are pricier than other granite types and typically need to be installed by a professional. After all, each slab is too heavy and expensive to be handled by anyone without prior experience or skills.
Granite Countertop Design
Granite countertops are excellent for any home aesthetic. Whether you have an extravagant French mansion or a simple and cozy farmhouse, granite will work well for your interiors. They add an air of sophistication and luxury while still exuding a natural appeal, considering that they are a product of the earth.
Some home design professionals assume that natural stone is a cliche material. They also believe that synthetic-engineered or eco-friendly composites are better for countertops. However, it is good to remember that granite is a timeless option for countertops, and having them in your home could increase your property’s real estate value.
Granite naturally comes in a variety of colors. The most common shades include red, gray, and pink. You can also find colors like green and blue as well as pure blacks and whites.
Repair and Maintenance of Granite Countertops
Granite is a tough material that is resistant to scratching. This is a good property of the material since any possible repairs would be challenging to accomplish. Signs of wear, such as fissures, chips, and cracks, can usually be remedied by a resin kit or epoxy that matches the color and pattern of the granite.
Although granite is better as a countertop material than marble, it is still a porous stone that needs to be sealed to keep it from staining. Most granite countertops are sealed before they are installed. For maintenance, it is best to regularly reseal the surface to prevent damage.
Conclusion
Granite countertops are timeless and come in different types. Contrary to popular belief, not all granite countertops will break the bank. As long as you consult the experts on kitchen countertops in Birmingham, AL, you can determine which type of granite can work for you and how you can take care of it.
If you are searching for a professional who cuts granite in Birmingham, AL, Cutstone Company is the one you need. We are experts on kitchen countertops. Our team can design and install stone surfaces that do not break the bank. With our help, your home will be graced by high-quality granite. To learn more about our services, contact us today.
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