When you’re renovating your kitchen and need to choose a countertop material, the variety of option available can be overwhelming. Sometimes it better to stick with classic kitchen countertop materials like granite. But, how well will granite countertops fair in your busy, day-to-day life? Find out with this list of pros and cons before you make your final decision.
The Pros
It’s Durable
When you have a granite countertop installed in your home, it’ll be a part of your kitchen for many years to come. This long-lasting, natural stone product will continue to be functional and stay looking amazing for decades, as long as it’s properly taken care of. Sealing it once a year and wiping the surface down with mild soap, warm water and a soft cloth will keep it looking brand new. Doing this will also maintain its functionality, as it will be able to handle daily wear and tear easily.
Highly Resistance
Granite countertops are one of the most resistant countertop materials on the market. When sealed with the proper stone sealant, either by you or the factory, you won’t have to worry about liquids being absorbed into the stone and staining it. The sealant creates a barrier that prevents stains and bacteria from seeping into the porous material. This natural stone option is also highly resistant to scratching, so much so that you’re more likely to dull the blade of your knife rather than damage the surface. As for granite’s heat resistance, that’s another area where you can breathe easily. You can place a hot pan on it without worrying about scorch marks or weakening the stone’s integrity.
Beautiful Aesthetics
No one can deny how pretty granite countertops can be. Not only does this natural stone product produce unique slabs with each slice, but these granite slabs are available in a variety of natural colors to choose from. As a timeless piece that will age well with any kitchen style, you’ll be able to find something that will perfectly blend in with or stand out from any cabinets, walls or flooring of your choosing. This kitchen countertop will be the centerpiece you’ve been dreaming about.
The Cons
It’s Tough and Heavy
While many might believe that this is a good trait for a kitchen countertop to have, it does come with a few downsides. If your granite countertop gets cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged somehow, it’ll be difficult for professionals to repair. But how could a hard material like granite get chipped? Because there’s little to no flexibility in granite, dropping heavy objects or standing on them can cause damage. As it’s an extremely heavy surface, if granite is installed on cabinets that can’t handle the weight, the cabinets may crack or chip.
Improperly Sealed
If granite countertops aren’t sealed properly or the sealant wears off, the surface will become porous. That means it’ll be susceptible to liquid absorption and etching, resulting in both permanent staining and dullness. Porous surfaces can also hold onto bacteria, making them unsanitary when preparing food. As granite only needs to be sealed once a year, purchasing some at your local hardware store and applying it is an easy task that everyone can do.
Since 1985, Art’s Countertops has been providing high-quality quartz countertops, granite, laminate, and solid surface countertops to customers throughout Kitchener and Waterloo, Ontario. With durable products and a wide selection, call us today or visit our website for more information.