We’ve produced many blogs comparing different worktops materials, but we always seem to come across the same question: is granite really the best choice for kitchen countertops?
Time and time again, granite appears to be the superior material for those looking for stone worktops. So we’ve delved deeper into the pros and cons of this popular stone.
Properties of granite
- Granite is a tough, igneous rock and is probably the most recognisable of all the countertop materials.
- It’s used for a wide variety of products including worktops, floor tiles, paving stones and monuments.
- Granite has been used in interior and exterior constructions for thousands of years. It is considered a prestigious material, admired for its elegance, durability and strength.
What makes it better than other materials?
- Granite has the longest life expectancy, so if you’re looking for worktops that will stand the test of time, it’s longevity is unrivalled.
- Granite is also very low maintenance. Other than needing a wipe down after use, a good sealant will stop it from absorbing liquids or developing stains as easily as marble.
- It is also impervious to heat, so you can rest assured that hot pans and plates will not melt or crack the surface. This sets granite apart from other worktop materials, as marble, quartz and laminate are all susceptible to heat damage.
- It’s also available in a wide range of colours. Many granite owners suggest picking lighter colours if you’re concerned about the stone retaining that ‘just installed’ look.
- In more recent years, granite has been favoured for its environmentally friendly sourcing and hazardous-chemical-free maintenance.
- Granite is the toughest natural stone and therefore lends itself well to use in the kitchen or bathroom.
Unlike softer materials such as marble, you don’t need to worry as much over handling it with care. It can take some rough and tumble, and may even dull your knives should you choose to cut directly on its surface (we suggest you use a cutting block instead).
Even if the worktop does sustain damage, chips in granite can be repaired by a professional relatively easily.
What are the limitations of granite?
- If you want your granite worktops to stay resistant to wear and tear, it’s worth sealing it. This may be a con, as forgetting to top up sealants could lead to damage, however, at Marble Supreme we’ll advise you on the right sealant and treatments for your worktops.
If you stay on top of sealing (which will ultimately only need to be done once or twice a year), your worktops shouldn’t cause you any serious issues.
- Granite is incredibly heavy, so it’s vital to pick a frame that can take the weight of the worktops.
- Granite can be on the more expensive side, but when factoring in just how long it will last you as well as the added property value of having a good kitchen, it’s worth the investment.
So, is granite the best choice for you?
It’s easy to see why granite is such a popular material. But the most important question is, is it right for you?
All kitchen worktops materials have different limitations, so it’s important to pick the material that suits your needs best. You can find direct comparisons in our stone ‘VS’ series.
We stock plenty of different styles and colours of granite, why not visit our Bristol showroom (currently subject to our social distancing promise) to see your options in person?
If you’d like to explore more options, find out if quartz or marble is better suited to your needs by reading our full guide to kitchen worktops materials.
For expert advice, complete an online contact form or call us on 0117 956 3030 today.