Granite is noted by many not only for its appearance, but also its sturdiness and ability to be repaired when necessary. There are some things potential buyers should know about granite counter tops before diving into a purchase.
They include:
Hardness: Granite is considered on of the ten hardest stones known to man. This means it is incredibly tough and durable, but it doesn't mean it's indestructible. It's important to remember that even the hardest of stones can be cut, so some care is required in their use.
Imperfections: Part of the beauty of granite is the fact it does have some imperfections. Granite is known for having hairline cracks and natural fissures. These are generally buffed out partially in the creation of countertops, but some might remain in a finished piece. If absolute perfection is desired, granite might not be the counter top of choice.
Color variations: Since granite is a naturally occurring rock that incorporates other minerals in its creation, manufacturing a solid color that's perfect throughout a slab is not likely. The fact is even colored granite slab counter tops will have some color variations. These, too, are seen as the natural beauty of the product, but should be understood by buyers before the counter tops are installed.
Design: Granite counter tops can be ideal for any type of kitchen or counter setting, but they do not come in the giant sheets fabricated counter tops are known for. There is no way to avoid seams in granite counters. They are a part of the deal. Imperfections in the cuts can be masked well by floating drywall and using other creative techniques.
Durability: Granite is sealed to help it resist scratches and scorches. The sealer is very important and should be replaced on a fairly regular basis. Inasmuch, it's not always the best idea to set hot pots directly on the surface or even try to cut directly on it. While it's very difficult to damage granite, harming the sealer is more than possible.
Cleaning: The combination of natural rock and sealer makes granite a little different to clean than other surfaces. The best way to go about cleaning is to simply use a damp cloth. There are also special cleaning agents to use for granite counter tops that are meant to work with the sealer and protect it.
Granite counter tops are considered the top of the line by many. Offering a natural beauty and durability that's hard to deny, these counter tops lend an air of luxury to any kitchen. Coming in a variety of colors and designs, these counter tops can last a lifetime if well cared for. Although much more durable than an average counter, they do require some special tender, loving care. When it's applied, granite can be a wonderful choice for any kitchen.
Granite Countertops Cherry Cabinets
There are many improvements and additions you can make in your home to boost your property value, but no investment will pay off more than granite countertops. There are three things that determine home value most: your kitchen, your bathrooms, and curb appeal. This being said there is no bigger ?bang for your buck? than granite counter tops, which are the epitome of style and taste in the kitchen. Granite countertops are not limited in any way to the standard gray or black colors. In fact the color and style of your granite counter tops are fully customizable to compliment your house existing decor.
Nowadays you are able to choose the color of your granite countertops from wide selection of textures, styles and colors. No matter what your personal taste is, there is a style of granite countertops for you. Yet another aesthetic selection in the world of granite kitchen countertops is the routing of the edges. The standard square, bevel, halfbullnose or bullnose edges have a very clean, modern and nice look, but you should definitely check out all the options available to you. Aside from the obvious payoff granite countertops offer, the biggest advantage is versatility. Granite countertops, unlike other building materials can fit any style you desire.
The luxury of granite countertops is not by any means limited to the kitchen. Being the second biggest investment in property value, bathroom vanity tops look great with granite. Bathroom granite countertops can bring a feeling of elegance to the often over looked bathroom. One beautiful look that will really tie your bathroom together is granite countertops that match a granite tile floor or granite tile on the walls.
Honestly, because of the location of granite countertops and their ties to property value it is almost foolish not to opt for this improvement if you are ever planning to sell your home. Granite is getting more and more affordable so you should seriously consider investing in it. There are not many investments that are almost guaranteed to pay off three fold and that is the case with granite countertops. Especially with today's housing market you need any advantage you can get over other houses on the market. Think about which house would you choose, the one with beautiful granite countertops or the generic old laminate counters, which get sliced, chipped and stained and do nothing for the value of the home.
If your intention is never to sell your home this is all the more reason to choose granite countertops. If this is your home for life it should be an environment that is comfortable classy and strong enough to last a lifetime. Granite countertops are the only countertop material that is strong enough to stay flawless for a lifetime, immune to hot pots or fire, and are much more sanitary that other countertop surfaces. For a multitude of reasons granite countertops are among the best investments to make for your home value and aesthetic appeal. Go ahead and start shopping for granite kitchen and bathroom countertops. Once they're installed you'll know for sure that this is the best investment you can make in your home.
Both M. Xavier & Mara Bose are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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