1. The natural beauty of a granite counter top. Vast arrays of shades, colors, and textures are available. Colors to compliment any decor can be found weather its a neutral color or something bright, your personal tastes can always be satisfied. One note here, if your counter top will need more than one slab to complete, make sure they come from the same mine batch or color shades could be objectionably different between slabs.
2. The durability of kitchen granite countertops. Granite is one of the most durable materials available. Unlike Formica, it isn't subject to burning by hot pots or pans being cooked with. Granite is resistant to staining and discoloring when properly sealed on a regular basis. Sealing is easily done by anyone, and a properly sealed granite countertop will maintain a beautiful shiny luster for a lifetime.
3. Every slab of granite will have different feature from the next. Patterns, color textures, distribution and depth can all vary from slab to slab, providing different character. Any type of cabinet hardware fixtures can be complemented as well as cabinet finish or flooring. A richness is added to your kitchen, one that simple cannot be duplicated with other materials.
4. Although granite will add some expense to your kitchen remodel project, there are few better investments in your homes value. Using granite for your kitchen granite countertop will increase your home value, whether you're planning on selling your home soon or not. Home shoppers are more inclined towards a recently remodeled kitchen void of repair needs. They're more likely to pay more for the home, or go from feeling indifferent to preferred.
Builders and contractors have noticed an increase in demand for granite countertops over the recent decade or so, and it's no wonder with all the benefits of granite. Weather using granite to enjoy the luxury yourself, or looking to sell your home, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Consider the decor of your home while choosing the pattern and color of granite to be used. Will you be changing the decor or do you have something new in store. Neutral colors are more flexible with any decor changes due in the future.
2. Always make sure you are the one who chooses the actual granite slab to be used in your kitchen countertop. Since every slab is different, sample chips wont match exactly what's available. If your countertop is big enough to require more than one granite slab, make sure the slabs are from the same quarry batch. Different granite quarry batches will vary in hue for the same granite type. It would be a disaster if slabs from different batches were used.
3. Never try to recycle fixtures such as the faucet or sink. With granite applications, an undermount sink looks best - mounted on the underside of the granite, with a silicon sealant preventing leaks. An undermount sink can not be installed or replaced after the granite is in place. So purchase the best quality sink you can afford.
With these few points in mind, you're ready to go and have your kitchen countertop transformed with gorgeous granite. Don't be alarmed when friends and neighbors see it for the first time and gasp at the transformation.
White Granite Kitchen Countertops
Granite is a much more versatile stone than you may realize. There are various ways to employ it throughout the house, including in the kitchen. It's popular for functional reasons but also for decorative. It fits in with so many design styles and has such a good reputation of durability and cleanliness that it's nice to know there's more than one way to work it in. If you are planning a renovation or considering it, take a look at the different ways to include granite in the kitchen.
Granite Countertops - A Must-Have
When you think of granite and the kitchen, you probably think about countertops first. And it's no surprise. The popularity of granite countertops never ends. They appear in both traditional and contemporary style kitchens, but it's not hard to imagine why it works with so many design aesthetics. The color choices range from neutral blacks and browns to vibrant reds and greens and everything in-between.
Another reason granite is a popular choice for countertops is because it lasts for so many years with little effort. It's easy to take care of, demanding very little tough cleaning or other maintenance. Granite's natural resistance to heat, scratches, and stains, makes it a wonderful choice for a kitchen.
If you want to make a statement with granite, the countertop is the way to go.
Granite Medallions - A Decorative Touch
There aren't many ways to really decorate a kitchen. It requires so much attention to function that there may not be much room for fluff. An alternative way to add some decoration while maintaining the room's purpose is to install a granite medallion on the kitchen floor. If you're tiling, this is a way to add a pop of color and design to a room that can be rather plain. Medallions are granite mosaics that are pieced together on one large tile. Medallions can be installed on the floor and on the wall and come in various designs and use a rainbow of granite colors. If you want art in your kitchen, this is one way to go about it.
Granite Island Tops ? A Small Luxury
If you already have an island in your kitchen or plan to add one, you should consider granite for the top. Even if you can't afford to have all granite countertops, granite on the island can make a statement, turning a functional center into a visual focal point. Because granite is custom fabricated, it can be cut into whatever shape your island is and will be just as durable and easy to care for as granite countertops. And because granite comes in such a wide array of color choices, you'll be able to find one that blends in with your countertops and cabinets.
These are just three ways to use granite in one room of your house. Granite has many other uses both inside the home and outside. Consider adding granite to your kitchen with a countertop, medallion, or island top. It's a little luxury in a functional space.
Both Dave Marx & Emi Bos 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.