Granite countertops add an elegant, durable touch to your kitchen. Their heat resistance withstands exposure to direct sunlight or briefly placing hot pans down.
Neutral hues like Kashmir White or Colonial Gold granites add classic elegance to any kitchen design, while more textured brown granites such as Coffee Brown or Ubatuba add depth and charm.
Easy to clean
Granite is an attractive natural stone with inherent stain-resistance and dense structure that repels micro-pests such as bacteria. To ensure long-term preservation and use safely on granite surfaces, using cleaning products suitable for granite is key – particularly in high traffic kitchen areas where frequent contact occurs with food preparation surfaces like countertops. Basil and grapefruit essential oils have proven popular natural alternatives which act as antibacterial cleaners.
Wipe the countertops regularly to avoid buildup and spills, including acidic liquids like lemon juice or vinegar that could etch, as well as using coasters under glasses or cups. It is advisable to reseal granite annually; to do this you can test its sealant by splashing a few drops of water on frequently used areas; if the droplets bead up rather than flowing smoothly it may be time for another coating of sealant reapplication.
Make a cleaning solution using 1 cup of cool water mixed with 1 cup of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol in a spray bottle and lightly spray onto surfaces, before wiping them off with a microfiber cloth or sponge. For oil-based stains, consider making your own stain removal paste by mixing baking soda and water together for maximum effect.
Easy to maintain
Granite countertops are highly stain-resistant and repel bacteria, but as natural stone they require regular sealing in order to minimize deeper stains forming on them. Luckily, this task is straightforward and quick!
For optimal results, use a stone-safe sealer that is non-toxic and suitable for food preparation surfaces. Coasters for drinks are recommended, while wiping up spills immediately are also important measures.
If your children or other family members tend to spill food onto your countertops, consider selecting one with eased edges that are less prone to chipping. Also avoid using harsh cleaners which could pit or etch granite surfaces and cause dull spots that are difficult to get rid of; try mixing baking soda and hydrogen peroxide together into a paste for use over stain spots; cover it with plastic wrap overnight before washing away in the morning.
Adds value to your home
Selecting granite as a countertop material in your kitchen can make an enormous impactful statement about both its value and style. Not only is granite long-lasting and easy to keep clean, it can also withstand high heat without cracking or scratching easily – perfect for family homes!
Though many associate granite with shades of gray or black, its availability extends far beyond these two shades. You’ll find exotic options such as Azul Bahia, Black Galaxy and Sienna Bordeaux suitable for almost every kitchen design imaginable.
Before purchasing granite for your countertops, always view a full slab in person to select your color choice. Natural stone has different textures which make it difficult to pinpoint its exact hue from small sample pieces alone; doing this will ensure that your countertops complement the rest of your kitchen seamlessly.
Durable
Granite countertops are exceptionally hardwearing and highly resilient to damage and wear. They don’t etch when exposed to acidic cleaners and don’t care where hot pans or dishes land (though too long can cause scorch marks).
Natural stone countertops are also bacteria-resistant due to being nonporous and not absorbing dirt and grease that would make other countertop surfaces an incubator for harmful microbes. When properly sealed, natural stone may even resist staining as well.
Only downside to granite is its limited supply and higher costs, so many homeowners turn to honed or leathered slabs as an economical solution to get their desired look without breaking the bank. Their textured surfaces soften its reflective highlights while adding rustic charm that fits in seamlessly with traditional and transitional kitchen styles alike. Furthermore, an eased edge detail adds even more of a natural aesthetic.
