Last Updated on January 22, 2020
Some things in life are literally “set in stone.” They stand the test of time. Take granite, for example. It’s amazing to think how – thousands of years ago – the Egyptians used granite to build the pyramids. Then fast-forward to today, where parts of our kitchens and bathrooms are constructed from granite. With an abundance of other countertop materials trending today (including quartz, recycled glass, and concrete), granite still wins out as the best choice. Here are some of the top reasons why.
Durability
Granite stands alone as the hardest natural material, second only to diamonds. Harvested from deep within the earth, granite’s innate characteristics make it resistant to heat, scratching and chipping, which is why it is the ideal choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Unsurpassed beauty
As with fingerprints and snowflakes, no two slabs of granite in the world are alike. Minerals such as quartz, feldspar, mica, biotite and hornblende each contribute to the beauty of granite. These unique characteristics provide homeowners with a one-of-a-kind look that will last for years to come.
Endless design options
Because of its individuality, granite is available in an abundance of colors, the most common being gray, black and white. Some slabs are also available in blue, green and brown. The color combinations are virtually endless, giving homeowners a spectrum of design options that can add a lifetime of elegance to their homes.
Maintenance-free
Since granite is installed in its natural state, it must be sealed properly to resist bacteria and staining. Once it has been professionally sealed, granite is easy to maintain. A soft cloth, warm water and a mild detergent (or if preferred, a specially formulated cleaner) are all that is needed to clean a granite countertop. (Just be sure to clean up spills quickly and to avoid using bleach, acidic liquids or harsh cleaners.)
Longevity
When properly installed, granite will most likely be the last countertop you will ever have. Unlike other countertop surfaces (such as laminate or butcher block that will need to be replaced several times over the years), granite will last a lifetime.
Return on investment
Aside from wanting to add beauty and elegance to where they live, homeowners choose the installation of granite countertops to increase the value of their homes. Granite can pay for itself with the return on investment being as high as 100 percent. This has become a deciding factor for homebuyers who are looking for high-end upgrades, as opposed to homes that have countertops made from other materials that don’t compare.
Granite Transformations makes engineered granite countertops that are even stronger than natural granite. Schedule your free in-home design consultation with Granite Transformations today and see how granite countertops can brighten and strengthen your next remodeling project.
