The Cost of Granite Countertops – Is it Worth the Investment?
The Cost of Granite Countertops – Is it Worth the Investment?
If you’re looking for a stylish upgrade that will add value to your home, granite counters are an excellent option. However, they can be quite costly.
The cost of a granite countertop depends on a number of factors, including the type of stone used, design options and maintenance requirements. In addition, installation costs can double your final cost.
Materials
Granite is a natural stone that comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns. This means that it can be a great match for your kitchen decor.
To create your countertops, a fabricator will take massive slabs of granite and cut them into custom shapes. These pieces are then polished with CNC machines.
The process can be time-consuming, so the fabricator will need to have a lot of help on hand. This can include family members who are willing to lug the heavy slabs out of the shipping container and into your home.
Granite is a very durable material, so it can handle daily spills and other accidents without being damaged. It’s also easy to clean. Wipe down a countertop with a sponge and a drop of dish soap or warm water on a daily basis to prevent any stains.
Installation
The installation of granite countertops is a complex process that requires specialized tools and expertise. Most homeowners opt to hire a professional installer.
However, you can install granite countertops yourself if you have some DIY experience and are handy with a hammer. You can also save money by doing it yourself.
Before you begin the installation, take precise measurements of your kitchen cabinets. Be sure to add about a half-inch extra for overhangs.
Once the measurements are in place, the fabricator will cut the granite slab to fit your cabinets. Then, they will level and secure the cabinet doors.
After that, you can choose between using a plywood base for the countertops or placing them directly on your cabinets. If you decide to use plywood, make sure to measure the exact size of the template and attach it properly. You can also purchase a waterproofing membrane to keep the plywood from swelling when it comes into contact with water.
Design
Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchens because they are hard and durable. They’re also aesthetically pleasing and can be shaped in different ways to suit any style or design preference.
There are a wide variety of stone types available, but the most common is granite. Its natural characteristics — including specks, color and unique veins — give each piece its own character.
This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas and a great choice for homeowners who want a stylish countertop that will last. It’s also easy to maintain. Simply wipe down with mild dish soap and water or use a granite cleaner ($6, Target).
Granite is one of the more expensive countertop options, but it’s a timeless look that will remain stylish for years to come. Plus, it’s highly resistant to heat and scratches, making it a smart investment for your home.
Maintenance
Granite is a highly durable and resilient material. However, just like all natural stones, it requires some maintenance to keep it looking fresh and new.
The most important thing to remember about granite care is to use gentle and granite-specific cleaners instead of harsh cleaners that can corrode and damage the sealant over time. You should also avoid using cleaning products that contain acidic ingredients such as citric acid and vinegar.
Another thing to consider is keeping highly pigmented liquids away from your counters as these are likely to discolor your granite countertops over time. You should also be careful to clean up spills quickly, as these can absorb into the granite and cause stains to form.
In addition to the above tips, it is also important to regularly reseal your granite countertops so they are protected from stains and moisture. You can perform a simple water test on your granite countertop to determine whether or not it needs to be resealed. Splash some water on the countertop and watch to see if it sits on the surface in small bead-like shapes or flows freely.