When it comes to countertops, the options are endless. There are more styles and materials to choose from than ever. One material that has seen an enormous surge in popularity in the last couple of decades is granite. Granite is durable, beautiful, and easy to care for. Because of this, granite has been the countertop of choice in kitchens across America. While granite is very popular, there are still plenty of things you should know about this material. Here are three things to consider if you are looking for granite stone countertops.
When it comes to granite, a lot of homeowners think of the basic black which tends to be the most popular color. While black granite is beautiful, granite is available in a variety of other colors and patterns. No two slabs of granite are identical. Granite is also available in ten basic color groups which include black, blue, brown, beige, white, yellow, green, red, gray, and burgundy. This color range makes it easy to find a granite countertop that works with the kitchen. Lighter granite works well with dark cabinets and smaller kitchens while darker granite works well with light color cabinets.
While many homeowners like the look of granite, they may avoid it thinking that it's out of their budget. While granite does tend to be more expensive than other countertop materials, its recent popularity has made it more accessible than ever. The average cost of granite is between $50 and $100 per square foot. The thicker the slab, the more expensive the countertop tends to be. Other factors such as color and pattern can also have an impact on price. It's also possible to find granite at wholesale, which can make countertops more affordable.
Another thing that many homeowners may not realize is that granite's durability allows it to be used both indoors and outdoors. Granite is stain resistant, holds up well to the elements, and won't fade in the sun. Granite can also be sealed on a regular basis to increase its durability. These qualities make granite an ideal choice for outdoor kitchens. For outdoor use, it is recommended to avoid granite that has a large amount of veining since it can have a negative reaction to sunlight.
Granite countertops are a beautiful addition to any home. They are available in a variety of colors and work well with different types of decor. Granite is also available at a variety of price points and can be used both indoors and outdoors.