Granite countertops why use

Granite is tougher than most common countertop options like Formica, and it stands up well to regular wear and tear. Because granite is such a hard material, it resists scratches—cutting on it will damage your knives, but not your counters! Another advantage granite has over other materials is that it resists heat. This makes it ideal for use near a cooktop or range. Granite countertops also save you a lot of worry about wear to set down hot pans, as unlike other materials, granite will not be damaged or weakened by exposure to heat.

Prev NEXT. Home Improvement. Construction Materials. Like many things, granite countertops have their advantages and disadvantages. It's a one-of-a-kind, natural surface that has an almost luminous look.

Granite adds value to your home. It's sanitary -- bacterial contamination is not a problem with granite. Formed by heat and pressure, it can take the heat of a pan.

It's easy to clean with warm water and a mild detergent. Granite countertops last forever. If you get tired of the color, you'll either need to learn to live with it or rip out the entire counter, because you can't change the color. In a typical kitchen, granite countertops will need to have seams. Depending on the color of granite you choose, average slab size will vary. A typical expectation can be set at 9 feet x 5 feet. Large islands can typically be done without seams. If you have an L or U-shaped layout, expect seams where the countertops angle in a different direction.

The good news is that many fabricators will mix custom color epoxy to adhere the seams together which does a great job at disguising them. Undermount Sinks. Undermount sinks are common in granite countertop installations. This allows crumbs and spills to be wiped directly into the sink without being caught on the lip of a surface mount sink. You can consider using several types of sinks including cast iron, stainless steel, or solid surface.

Fabricators will cut and polish the sink hole to match the shape of your chosen sink. Backsplash Options. Coved backsplashes that are common in laminate countertops are not available with granite. Tile and full-height granite backsplashes are also used. Granite countertops should be repaired by a professional. It is rare to get a crack or chip in your countertops, but if you do, call the fabricator who installed your countertops to schedule a service call.

Most of the time, a color matched epoxy can be used to fill the void and it will be virtually invisible. Superglue can be used in a pinch to fill chips. If you use heavy cast iron pans, be careful when placing them into your undermounted sink. The edge of these cutouts is the most common place to get chips. A more likely scenario, though, is to experience an increased number of broken dishes. Granite is a porous material—but this is not necessarily a bad thing.

If liquids are left on the surface for long periods of time, they will eventually absorb. But just like they absorb, they will also evaporate. Depending on what the substance is that needs to be removed, you can apply different poultices to speed the process along.