Why Granite Countertops Are Popular?

Granite countertops have been admired for their beauty and durability for decades. They have a timeless appeal that ensures your home will be in style forever. Whether you want to renovate your kitchen or bathroom, granite is one of your top contenders for countertop materials. You might be wondering the reason why granite countertops are popular. What makes them one of the most sought-after materials for home improvement projects? What sets them apart so much that they are one of the favorite choices of homeowners and interior decorators? 

Granite has remained a top choice for decades and its popularity shows no inclination to stop. One of the most important things to note about granite countertops is that they aren’t just popular for their beauty or aesthetic appeal. Granite is also one of the hardest and strongest natural materials, making it an ideal material for high-traffic areas of a home, such as the kitchen. 

The Natural Beauty of Granite

Although granite has many beneficial and practical benefits, its beauty is still one of the primary reasons why granite countertops are popular. Unlike manufactured materials, natural stones like granite are formed over millions of years within the crust of the Earth, and they show it. Granite has a very unique feel to it that exudes an organic and earthy feel. This instantly shifts the space it is installed in and pairs amazingly well with other natural elements in the room such as hardwood floors. 

Moreover, its naturalness makes each slab of granite unique. Similar to fingerprints, it is impossible to find two granite slabs that are completely the same because each one is shaped and formed by the different minerals in the Earth, the differing amounts or pressure it is under, and where it is quarried. In other words, your granite countertop slabs will be unique to your home. 

Long-lasting Durability

As mentioned before, granite countertops aren’t just beautiful, they are also incredibly functional and practical. As one of the hardest stones available, granite is highly durable against the daily wear and tear that occurs in any kitchen or bathroom countertop. Granite countertops are highly resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and other similar types of damage even in busy environments. This makes it an ideal option for households with small children or pets. 

Granite is also a great option for passionate home cooks. If you love to cook every day or multiple times a day, you will need something that can stand the test of time. Preparing meals, cleaning, and the occasional spill won’t affect granite. These countertops will serve your needs while still looking as good as new.

Low-maintenance and Easy to Clean

Another practical reason for the popularity of granite is that it is very easy to clean and maintain. Once the countertops are sealed, they are extremely resistant to stains and bacteria. This makes it incredibly easy to clean as all spills can be wiped off. 

Similar to other natural materials, granite has a porous surface. This porousness makes it possible for spills and food particles to seep into the stone and cause stains or bacterial growth in the long run. By sealing the stone, you are creating a protective barrier, making it stain and bacteria-resistant. 

Moreover, you don’t need any special products for cleaning granite countertops. You can use a mild dish soap with a neutral pH level for cleaning the countertops daily. You can mix the dish soap with warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the area. 

Wide Range of Colors and Patterns

One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is whether it has a vast array of color and pattern options for you to choose from. If it doesn’t have a lot of options, even if it is an otherwise ideal material, it might not be preferable. 

Granite has many color and pattern options. The most common colors of granite slabs and natural and light tones such as beige, light gray, and cream. These tones are very versatile and can be paired with a wide range of design styles. Although these are the most common colors, they aren’t the only available ones. Granite slabs with vibrant blue, red, green, and orange tones and more are also available. 

The slabs have different colors, thicknesses, and intensities of patterns. Light gray, dainty swirls will give the slab a classic look whereas thicker and bolder ones will add a dramatic appearance to the stone. 

Resistance to Heat and Scratch 

Granite is formed under the crust of the Earth under immense pressure and heat. This makes the stone incredibly durable against the daily amounts of heat and use that occurs in kitchens. For example, a hot pan or pot that is removed from the stove can be directly put on the granite and it won’t hard the stone in any way. Similarly, a dish or tray that is taken out of the oven seconds before won’t chemically change the structure of the countertops.  

However, the sealant that is applied to protect the stone from moisture and dirt isn’t as resistant. The sealant can get damaged, lessening its protective abilities. Therefore it is better to use a trivet to protect the stone. 

Similarly, granite is very scratch-resistant. However, professionals would still recommend using a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the countertops to avoid any damage long-term and to preserve the surface of the stone. Using a cutting board will extend the life of your knives as well. 

Increased Resale Value

When it comes to home improvements, how much value they will add to your house is an aspect you have to consider. How will this project affect the value of your property if you ever decide to resell it? In the case of granite countertops, they can increase the resale value of your home significantly. 

Countertops are one of the pillars of a home. Old-fashioned or broken-down countertops can make a house look very disheveled even if every other corner of the home is newly refurbished. The contrary is true as well. Even if every other fixture of the home is getting old, new countertops will make the house look modern and more appealing. 

Granite countertops are known for their durability and practical benefits. Granite countertops will signal to buyers that your home is equipped with high-quality materials. Therefore, they wil entice any potential buyer and make your home more valuable. 

Customizable and Flexible

Granite countertops can be customized to fit in with the exact dimensions of your space. This is the case regardless of the size or space of your home. You could be looking for perfectly shaped rectangles or smaller intricate layouts. This level of customization ensures that your countertops will suit your needs while looking perfect. 

Fabricators with experience and training can accomplish these shapes without an issue. Moreover, they can incorporate detailed work such as sink cutouts, faucets or other features. This level of artisanship will result in countertops that look put-together and professional. 

Timeless Appeal 

Some trends come and go, leaving you with decorative pieces that look outdated even if they are still new. However, in the case of granite, that won’t be a problem. Granite offers timeless beauty. As a classic option for both kitchens and bathrooms, granite’s aesthetic appeal transcends trends and it is always in style. 

Its neutral colors can complement any style ranging from traditional to contemporary. Granite is a safe choice you won’t get tired of for decades. 

Conclusion

In short, granite has many amazing benefits that will transform your home. Its beauty and durability are only two of the myriad of reasons why granite countertops are popular. The natural elegance of granite countertops elevates the aesthetic appeal of the space while its longevity makes it a great option for high-traffic areas that require practicality. Its wide range of colors offers versatility. You can find the perfect design for your home among countless granite options. 

While these are only a few reasons why granite countertops are popular, the most important one is the satisfaction of all granite users. Granite countertops will ensure that your home will look its best for years to come.