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Trying to decide whether or not to use granite counter tops in your kitchen? Granite is really popular right now, but that doesn’t necessarily make it the best option for everyone’s kitchen remodel. Before you go out and choose a granite slab for your counter it is important to understand the benefits and problems associated with using granite in your kitchen. Read on for information about why granite may or may not work for you and how to choose the right slab of granite if you decide to use the material.
Positives of Granite
Several properties of granite make it great for using as a kitchen counter top. Because the stone is non-porous, it won’t catch bacteria like some other materials you might use for a counter. Granite is also easy to clean, and it comes in a wide variety of colors that can help it look good with almost any color scheme. Granite has a great luxury feel due to the variety and uniqueness in the stone, and it doesn’t loose color as it gets older. Granite is great for using in the kitchen because it is difficult to scratch or damage with heat, and using soap and water won’t hurt it at all.
Problems with Granite
Unfortunately, while there are many positives to using granite for your kitchen counter, there are some negatives associated with the stone as well. Many people who choose granite for their counter tops choose a slab based on beautiful veining that helps the stone look unique and interesting even though this veining can make the stone fragile and prone to cracks. Granite does cost quite a bit, and the uniqueness of an individual piece makes it impossible to replace part of a counter with something that will match. One lesser known problem that some granite may have is actually a health risk. Most granite is just fine, but some granite that tends to be in the red set of shades may actually emit a little bit of Radon, a gas that causes cancer.
It is important to weigh the pros and cons of granite counter tops when you plan the remodel for your kitchen. If you decide to go with granite or granite overlay for your counter, consider a piece in a cool color with as little veining as possible.
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Which makes a better counter top material in the kitchen, granite or marble?
Granite would be the better choice simply becaue it
How does granite counter top compare to laminate cost wise?
The China blank granite can be cheaper than a good laminte job.
How does the thickness of a granite counter top affect the cost?
Te thicker it is the more it will cost. It costs more because you are getting more.
What is the thickness of of standard granite counter top?
Typically 3/4" to 1-1/8", but if you would like a thicker edge, they can laminate another piece at the edge to make it thicker.
How much are granite counter tops per square foot?
About 55 pounds.
What are the special care requirements for a granite counter top?
Some of the special care requirements for a granite counter top include applying granite sealer.
What is the difference between granite counters and granite cutting boards?
Granite counter tops are large and attached to the lower cabinets, forming a work top. Granite cutting boards are small and rest upon the counter top.
What is the difference between granite counter top and 0.25 inch engineered granite counter top?
The answer is in the question. Natural granite and engineered granite are like steak and beefburger. However, engineered granite is probably more practical and cheaper in the long run. See link.
What is a rough top for granite counter tops?
Granite counter tops are usually sanded and polished to create a smooth surface. A design element that is used sometimes is to keep the edges of a granite counter top rough or unpolished and unsanded to give a more natural look.
Do granite counter tops need any special care?
Yes, you will have to make sure your granite counter top is properly sealed or it will stain.
Does a granite counter top require special conditioning and cleaning?
Granite counter tops can be wiped down with a wet cloth. However, granite polish can be used to help preserve cleanliness and luster.
Is a granite counter top heat sensitive?
Granite counter tops aare not sensitive to the heat normally associated with their use in kitchens. A hot pan will not affect them.
What are the pros and cons for using granite counter tops in a kitchen remodel?
Granite counter tops are very favorable in the kitchen selections. They have great personality and looks. They are also resistant to a lot like water resistant. A con of granite counter top
What are the advantages of getting a granite counter top in the kitchen?
Granite counter tops offer many advantages over a standard counter top. The material is very strong and will surely last much longer and take more abuse than a laminate counter. Granite is also a very tight material and after polished and sealed it is very easy to clean, and resists stains.
Which makes a better counter top material in the kitchen, granite or marble?
Granite would be the better choice simply becaue it
How does granite counter top compare to laminate cost wise?
The China blank granite can be cheaper than a good laminte job.
How to Maintain Natural Beauty of Granite Counter Top?
A granite counter top is among the most popular work surface coverings chosen by homeowners not only for its natural beauty but also for its durability and versatility. But in order to keep a granite counter top looking shiny and beautiful, there are some key maintenance steps that must be followed. If you spill your morning orange or tomato juice onto a granite counter top, leave dribbles from a bottle of wine, or top over your coffee mug, it’s important to blot up all liquids as quickly as possible. Use a soft rag or a damp sponge to soak up all the spilled liquid so that it will not stain your granite counter top. Get into the habit of placing a coaster under glassware and bottles when setting them atop any granite surface to avoid having liquid stain the surface. Never use a steel wool pad or other abrasive cleaning cloth on a granite counter top as these can leave the granite looking dull. Chemical cleaners are also not advised because those containing acidic ingredients will make the granite counter top more porous to absorbing any spilled liquids. Dish detergents, especially those containing lemon, orange or ammonia ingredients, are also not recommended for cleaning a granite counter top. Invest in a stone cleaner designed for granite available from your local hardware supply store and apply it with a soft damp sponge prior to polishing the area with a soft cotton cloth or paper towel. Never place a hot pot from the stove directly onto a granite counter top. Dirt, dust or grit that gets between the granite surface and the bottom of the pot might mar the counter top. And although granite is among the hardest of surfaces, extreme exposure to heat might cause it to crack. If you notice your granite counter top absorbing moisture, it’s a good idea to apply a sealant, but no more often than once a year. Use a natural sealant containing fatty acids rather than something acrylic that won’t allow the granite to breathe. After making a sizeable investment to install a granite counter top in your kitchen, taking daily steps to care for your granite counter top will keep it looking beautiful and new.
