If you are planning a kitchen remodeling, you have a lot of choices to make. One of the most popular options many homeowners are considering today are granite countertops.
The term “granite” actually is a general term that describes a lot of different materials used on countertops today, including monzonite, gneiss, anorthosite, and syenite. Don’t worry, they all look beautiful and will enhance the appearance and value of your kitchen.
Benefits of Granite Countertops
Granite is one of the sturdiest materials and can stand up to a lot of abuse for many years without showing any wear. It can take the heat of a hot pan without worrying about burn marks or other damage.
They also are simple to clean using warm water and any kind of mild detergent. Granite is much more sanitary than wood, plastic of vinyl so you don’t have to worry as much about bacterial contamination.
Plus, granite usually won’t depreciate in value. If anything, it will increase the value of your home over time.
Drawbacks for Granite Countertops
The biggest downside to granite countertops is their cost. The upfront costs can be substantially higher than other types of countertop materials.
Their longevity also can be a drawback. If you install granite countertops during your kitchen remodeling, you are essentially married to that particular color and shade forever — unless you want to undergo another expensive renovation to rip it out and replace it.
While granite is durable, it’s not indestructible. It will crack if you hit it hard with something heavy like a meat cleaver or sledgehammer.
And because granite is so heavy, you frequently have to reinforce your counters so that they can support the extra weight — especially in spans and cantilevers
Bottom Line
If you are considering granite countertops for your next kitchen remodeling, it pays to give it some thought and think about both the benefits and the drawbacks before making your final decision.
