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The Benefits of Engineered Granite Countertops
September 6, 2018 // Posted in:Last Updated on August 13, 2021
It seems that engineered granite may be as nature intended after all. There is no denying that a natural granite countertop is a stunning example of “Earth’s work of art”—but its beauty comes with a price. And we’re not just talking about money.
This month, Granite and TREND Transformations discusses the differences between natural and engineered granite. Which will you decide as the best choice for your home? Let’s get started.
The difference
Natural granite
Natural granite is formed between layers deep within the Earth’s crust. But did you ever wonder what gives natural granite its unique patterns and colors? The answer is pretty cool. It is actually composed of a complex combination of a variety of minerals that include quartz, tourmaline, topaz, garnet and titanite. As beautiful as these may be, natural flaws in the granite and the porous nature of the slab will have you scrambling to clean up spills that can cause unsightly stains. Additionally, natural granite is more prone to cracking due to its intrinsic characteristics.
Engineered granite
Engineered granite, on the other hand, covers all these bases—and then some. This man-made product is composed primarily of natural stone with a small amount of polymer resin, which binds the material together to make it strong—much stronger than natural granite. Granite countertops from Granite and TREND Transformations are made with the highest quality granite quarried in Europe and then engineered into strong, beautiful surfaces at our very own manufacturing facility in Sebring, Florida. These countertops contain ForeverSeal®, our own proprietary product which ensures the surfaces are nonporous, stain and scratch-resistant. Also, unlike other traditional granite surfaces, these countertops will never require sealing. This unique benefit saves you both time and money. And who doesn’t love that?
And when it comes to keeping up with current trends, Granite and TREND Transformations is constantly evolving its color palettes to bring you the hottest colors and styles of today.
Benefits of engineered granite
If you’re decision is not yet “set in stone,” here are some benefits of choosing engineered granite countertops to help you seal the deal:
Beautiful, Consistent Look
Unlike natural granite, which has flaws and irregularities, engineered granite has a uniform, consistent look. And since it is engineered, it can be designed in a spectrum of colors, patterns, and designs. Imagine getting the look you want, when you want it. Working with Granite and TREND Transformations is the smarter way to renovate.
Durability
Although engineered and natural granite are both strong and extremely durable, one benefit of an engineered granite countertop is that it is almost impossible to chip or crack. It’s also highly resistant to heat, staining and scratches, which makes it the perfect surface for today’s busy lifestyles.
Easy to Maintain
Natural granite, like engineered granite, is easy to clean. The porous nature of granite, however, makes it prone to accumulating stains. Liquids such as red wine, oils and juice can be your worst enemy if your countertop is not properly sealed. As mentioned earlier, Granite and TREND Transformations has eliminated this worry, as it is the only granite countertop manufacturer that uses polymer resin ForeverSeal® to help strengthen and seal its surfaces.
Protected by Microban® antimicrobial technology
Keeping your kitchen and bathrooms clean is more important today than ever before. Did you know our etherium® By E-Stone surfaces are the only engineered stone products that have built-in antimicrobial technology from Microban®? Not familiar with Microban®? Check this out: Its technology works continuously to inhibit the growth of bacteria—24 hours a day, 7 days a week—to keep surfaces cleaner between regular cleanings. So, what does that mean for you? Peace of mind when it matters most. In addition, the protection will last for the expected lifetime of the product.
Still deciding on which granite countertop is right for your home and lifestyle? Our trained design professionals can answer your questions and guide you on selecting the right countertop for your home. Contact us today to schedule your free in-home—or virtual—design consultation.