Pros and Cons of Granite Countertops

The countertop is one of the main features in any kitchen. If you want it to look good for many years, you need to choose a high-quality material like granite. Granite is a natural stone that looks beautiful with any interior style. The unique patterns on the stone give it character unmatched by engineered materials. Despite the popularity of granite, there are still some considerations you need to make, especially in choosing a supplier and installer.

The biggest mistake any homeowner will make is to trust an inexperienced installer with their kitchen countertop. Natural stone, like granite, needs to be carefully handled to ensure that it retains its appearance even through heavy use. As such, one of the essential steps in shopping for a granite kitchen countertop is to look for a reliable supplier like www.cggranite.ie.

What makes granite an excellent choice?

The natural appearance of granite makes it a classic choice that never goes out of style. Whether your kitchen design is modern or traditional, granite is a perfect match. It is a high-quality material with unmatched durability. If your kitchen is intended for heavy use, you do not need to worry about stains and spills because granite is easy to clean and maintain. With proper sealing, granite is almost impenetrable with moisture. These qualities of granite are what makes it a versatile material not only for kitchen counters but also for floors. No wonder, granite tiles are fast becoming very popular these days.

Some precautions with granite

Despite the many excellent qualities of granite, it is far from perfect. If the sealing is poorly applied, the surface may become susceptible to scratches and moisture absorption. It is not ideal when you spill coloured liquid like wine as it may result in unsightly stains. To prevent this from happening, you need to have the sealant reapplied regularly.

You also need to be careful with the edges and corners because these may chip and crack. A chipped granite countertop can only be repaired by a professional, which could add to the cost of maintenance.

Proper care and maintenance of granite countertops

Damaged granite countertops often result from bad habits. The weaknesses of most natural stones are the same, but require varying degrees of maintenance and care. If you spill any liquid over granite, make sure to blot it quickly. Cleaning granite is easy. You can use commercially available granite cleaning fluid if you like, but any mild detergent will do.

Although you can place hot pots directly on granite, it is best to use a hot pad or trivet to prevent thermal shock. Grit, dirt, and other rough particles should be removed immediately, so these do not get trapped between the edges. Do not sit on top of the countertop or use or put hefty objects on top.

Do not use the surface to cut or chop food directly. Although granite is not susceptible to scratches, it is best to use a cutting board to protect your countertop. A wet cloth is enough to remove everyday spills and stains from granite. Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals that contain ammonia or bleach.