Designers commonly use granite in kitchens and bathrooms. Unsurprising! Interior design benefits from using granite. Granite countertops are eye-catching and detailed, making them a focal point in any room. Many luxury kitchens and bathrooms are constructed around a single, eye-catching piece of granite.
First Of All, What Exactly Is Granite?
Granite is an igneous rock that forms spontaneously when lava cools and hardens on the surface or in the depths of the earth. Granite is mostly made up of quartz and feldspar, with trace amounts of other minerals that affect its color and appearance.
Granite Countertops: The Benefits And Drawbacks
In spite of the fact that granite has many positive qualities as a countertop material, there are also certain drawbacks to keep in mind. Now, then:
Pros:
- Granite’s unmatched natural beauty cannot be replicated by man-made alternatives.
- This magnificent gemstone comes in a range of colors, from emerald green to jet black. It should be easy to choose a color that matches your other furniture.
- Granite is one of the longest-lasting options for a countertop since it is incredibly strong and resists scratches.
- Granite countertops near a stove or oven won’t warp or discolor because of the heat.
- When granite is properly polished and sealed, it cannot be stained in any way.
- It can fit into any budget, as it comes in a wide variety of pricing points, from basic to extravagant.
- Granite’s imperviousness to water and other liquids makes it ideal for use in damp environments like kitchens, baths, and even gardening.
Cons:
- The price of rare and unusual granites may exceed your expectations. Similarly, if you choose a rare color of granite and need to install additional at a later date, you may have a tough time finding granite that is an exact match.
- Due to the stone’s organic origins, granite may feature irregularities such as waves or naturally occurring patterns that can be difficult to replicate.
- It is possible that granite surfaces exposed to chemicals on a regular basis will lose their sealant and shine over time, allowing the stone to become discolored.
- When wet, polished stone can pose a significant hazard. Rough, flamed granite is our go-to flooring material of choice.
If You Want Your Granite Countertops To Look As Good As New, What Should You Do?
Care for your granite countertops and they’ll last for years.
Every day, use a gentle organic cleaner and a soft towel to clean.
Clean hard-to-reach places weekly to prevent oil and dirt buildup.
Every few years, reseal the surface. Water changing the stone’s color indicates absorption and needs resealing.
Some granites never need resealing. Your architect can advise you. Most black granite is so dark and solid that it can’t be stained and doesn’t need to be resealed.
Care And Cleaning Instructions For Your Granite Kitchen Island!
Here are some maintenance tips for granite countertops:
Do: Clean up spills as soon as possible.
Do: Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth every day to clean your counters. For deeper cleaning, you can use liquid organic cleaners.
Do not: Use chemical cleaning products such as bleach, ammonia, or acid-based substances (not even lime) on the surface. Avoid using abrasive or hard scouring pads.
Do not: Use a trivet to heat a pot on granite. Although the granite surface is heat-resistant, why not use gentleness?
Do not: Cut vegetables directly on the countertop. Your knife will be blunt.