Granite’s durability and beautifully vivid patterns are some of the main reasons why this natural material continues to be the most popular choice for kitchen countertops. Granite is also one of the most resilient stones to heat, stains and abrasions, which is why it’s a firm favorite for almost all kitchen surfaces.
A natural stone quarried far below the Earth’s service, the granite kitchen countertop you choose has been over a thousand years in the making – so it will truly stand the test of time! Unlike synthetic imitations, a natural material such as Granite offers unrivalled beauty and uniqueness – no two pieces are ever the same making your kitchen countertop elegantly distinctive.
When selecting a business from which to buy your new granite counters, make sure they are experienced, take pride in their products and offer high quality granite from all over the world. They should also offer installation services and help you find the grade, color and a variety of edging finishes. Granite’s popularity is everlasting and is one that will add significant value to your home.
What to consider when selecting your granite
Color
One of the most distinguishable elements of granite is its diverse color palette. Dependent upon a stone’s mineralogy, the colors typically associated with granite range from muted beiges and rose pinks, classic black-and-whites to saturated reds, rich greens and even multi-colors.
Granite is instantly recognisable by its striking flecked or “pebbled” appearance. Its texture is an unmistakable sign of quality, igniting interior splendour in any home.
Natural sources offer varied appearances and charming characteristics, giving a one-of-a-kind appeal that simply can’t be replicated by a machine, but you can rest assured that top supplier buy and install only the finest grades of granite.
Finish
Granite’s longevity and durability are what make this material an ideal countertop. However there are a number of different finishes available for Granite – all of which will enhance the quality and seal the permanence of your natural stone. These are:
Polished Finish – This finish gives a shiny, mirror-like effect. It intensifies the color and pattern adding even more sparkle to your stone. Polishing reduces Granite’s porosity, which increases its resistance to humidity and chemical substances commonly used in your kitchen. This is an ideal choice for busy families.
Honed – This technique achieves a smooth, non-reflective surface, although it can make your granite more porous so shouldn’t be considered for a countertop that will be used regularly.
Brushed/Antiqued – This treatment gives a textured, slightly worn appearance that is a daring choice, which will add dramatic effect.
Flamed finishes – The act of exposing the granite to extreme heat followed by intense cooling leaves the granite with a highly textured, slip-resistant surface – again a good choice for families.
Durability
Granite is recognised as one of the hardest stones for interior applications. Offering an impenetrable surface, it’s nearly impossible for it to crack, take on abrasions or scratches.
The high resistance to heat makes Granite an ideal surface for a kitchen where cooking appliances and hot cookware will be in use. With or without a finish, Granite’s surface can be easily cleaned to remove bacteria. It’s also extremely tolerable of tea, coffee, citric acid, alcohol and wine.
Granite is almost impossible to stain, but you should ask your countertop vendor about sealants available to improve its resistance to staining. Once you’ve made your choice, be ready to love your granite countertops for many years to come!