Granite Countertops

Granite is a highly prized natural stone material for countertops. It is one of the most popular types of countertops here at Keystone Granite. 

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Granite countertops are one of the most popular choices among homeowners and interior decorators due to their long-lasting durability, functional versatility, and elegant beauty.

They are a fantastic material for kitchen countertops, island tops, bathroom countertops, vanity tops, and much more. They not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of your house but also withstand the test of time and the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen.

Granite is a natural stone of the igneous kind that has captured the hearts of all with its remarkable durability and versatile applications.

This stunning stone is formed within the earth’s crust under immense pressure and heat through a very slow crystallization process of molten magma. As the molten rock cools over millions of years, it becomes granite—the slow process of crystallization results in granite’s distinct texture and mineral composition. 

It primarily comprises three minerals: feldspar, mica, and quartz—the unique patterns of granite result from the interaction between these components.

The arrangement of these minerals creates characteristic veining, speckles, and swirls that vary widely from slab to slab. Each piece is truly one of a kind, like a fingerprint. 

white granite kitchen countertop

What Characteristics Do Granite Countertops Possess?

Highly resilient: The durability of granite is one of its standout qualities and one that sets it apart from other options. When the ability to withstand the vigorous wear and tear kitchens suffer, it truly shines. As it is formed under such extreme amounts of pressure, it is immensely strong and resilient. It can handle the weight of items found in kitchens, such as heavy pots, pans, appliances, or full grocery bags, without cracking, breaking, or showing a sign of weakness.

Moreover, accidental impacts, for example, dropping heavy objects on the countertops, are much less likely to cause damage to the surface when compared to other countertop materials. 

Its strength also makes it resistant to scratches left behind by knives, utensils, scissors, or other kitchen tools.

This ensures that your granite countertops will remain pristine after years of use. Furthermore, unlike other natural stones, granite is not easily damaged after contact with common household chemicals or acidic liquids.

For instance, marble can etch if household acidic ingredients such as lemon juice are dropped, whereas granite will not get discolored and will maintain its integrity. 

Timelessly beautiful: The aesthetic appeal of granite is another one of its defining characteristics that has captivated homeowners and interior decorators. The allure of granite countertops brings a touch of natural elegance to any installed space.

Every granite slab is a unique, natural masterpiece. The detailed patterns, veins, and swirls on the stone resemble flowing water or an artist’s brushstrokes. Combining the solid base granite color and the flowing patterns on the surface creates unparalleled beauty. 

One of its biggest advantages is its wide range of colors. However, it is most commonly available in light and neutral colors such as white, cream, and beige, granite slabs with color palettes such as classic black and white, rich brown tones, muted greens, and blues, and vibrant reds.

These colors are drawn from the natural environment, creating granite slabs that fit every design preference. 

Adds to the resale value: Alongside its durability and beauty, the resale value is essential for property owners interested in home improvements. Granite kitchen countertops stand out as an investment that can significantly enhance the worth of your house.

These countertops are considered a luxurious and premium feature in a home, allowing you to ask for a higher price if you ever decide to resell. 

Moreover, in such a competitive real estate market, homes with upgraded kitchen and bathroom countertops tend to attract potential buyers more.

They contribute to the perception of a well-maintained space. As kitchens and bathrooms are incredibly tedious remodeling projects, buyers are interested in houses where they don’t have to deal with the remodel’s preparation, duration, and aftermath. 

The timeless appeal of granite is also a significant factor in its resale value. Trends come and go, but classic elegance and long-lasting durability endure the test of time. Potential buyers are drawn to material that promises lasting power and functional space. Therefore, granite is a very desirable feature. 

Easy to take care of: The essential factor is how much time and effort you have to invest in maintaining your countertops. Low maintenance is a crucial advantage of granite countertops, making them a practical, functional, and convenient option. The ease of maintaining granite is a welcomed feature considering how fast-paced life is.

The maintenance of granite doesn’t require any elaborate rituals or multiple-step tutorials. Moreover, you don’t even need special products or tools. Mixing mild dish soap and lukewarm water, you can create the perfect cleaning solution for your countertops. Afterward, wipe down the surface using a soft cloth or sponge.

This process is sufficient to remove everyday dirt and spills, which saves you so much effort and time to live and enjoy your life. 

Granite, similar to other natural stones, has a porous nature. Therefore, it must be sealed before use and resealed periodically afterward.

This might seem like unwanted effort and cost; however, the sealant helps make your countertops stain and discoloration-resistant. In other words, you won’t have to worry whenever a spin occurs. The sealant provides a protective barrier that prevents the liquids from sinking into the stone’s pores and causing hard-to-remove stains. 

Highly resistant to heat: Heat resistance is an amazing quality to have for any kitchen countertop. It allows you to place hot pans and pots on the countertops without worrying, making them convenient and reliable.

Granite countertops can tolerate contact with hot items such as baking trays or hot dishes without suffering damage. This capability eliminated the necessity of trivets or hot pads. However, the sealant used isn’t always as resistant.

Therefore you can still use trivets just to be safe. Alternatively, you can ask the installer you work with about the heat resistance of the sealant to be sure. 

This resistance also further ensured the longevity of the countertops as unsightly scorch marks or burns won’t blemish them. This allows your countertops to maintain their pristine condition and appearance over time. 

Moreover, this also makes granite an ideal option for use in outdoor areas. It can endure fluctuating temperatures without warping or cracking. 

Adaptable for different purposes: Versatility is one of the main reasons for the popularity of granite. Its wide range of applications includes kitchens and bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and beyond. The fantastic adaptability allows it is seamlessly fit into every design style and many different tastes and environments.

Regardless of the preexisting decorations in your kitchen, granite is the answer. It can be modern minimalism, rustic charm, classic elegance, cool Scandinavian, airy bohemian, or more. There is a granite slab that will complement any interior aesthetic. 

Granite countertops can serve both as a functional space and a design element. In other words, they are work surfaces that enhance the kitchen’s usability; they offer visual appeal for entertaining guests.

Moreover, the resilience of granite against the elements makes it suitable for use in outdoor areas as well. From outdoor kitchens to seating areas, granite can withstand exposure to rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations while maintaining its integrity, beauty, and functionality. 

Hygienic surface: A hygienic space is a crucial need in any space; when it comes to food preparation, hygiene gains an even more critical role. Granite countertops provide homeowners with a safe, clean, and hygienic environment. Its sealant contributes to its sanitary qualities, which makes it a favored option for kitchens and bathrooms.

The same quality allows it to be resistant to moisture too, which makes it resistant to staining and ensures that mold, mildew, or bacteria doesn’t grow on or in it. The sealant also allows it to be cleaned more easily. This furthers the hygiene as it doesn’t need to be deep cleaned as often as a stone with an open porous surface. 

Natural material: As granite is a natural stone, it possesses an organic and earthy appearance that is impossible to recreate with synthetic materials fully. Its unique, authentic beauty is a result of nature’s creativity.

The wide variety of colors, textures, veins, and patterns found in granite manifests the diversity of the earth’s geological processes. Opting for a natural material like granite is also an eco-friendly choice. As it is quarried directly from the earth, it doesn’t require much processing to be ready to use. 

Functionality: Granite countertops are a practical choice, and they contribute to an efficient experience, which makes them more than just visually appealing surfaces. They provide ample workspace for all kitchen activities and a generous surface for cooking and baking.

Its practical qualities, such as its durability, heat resistance, hygienic properties, and versatility, deliver many practical benefits that enhance everyday living. 

In short, granite is an amazing choice for countertops. It allows for easy maintenance, giving you more free time to spend with your family and loved ones. It ensures long-lasting durability and functionality.

Therefore, it will be with you through thick and thin and last you a lifetime. Its elegance and timeless beauty will continue to wow you every day while catching the eyes of your visitors and guests. It is an excellent material with many color options that fit any style and taste.

If you are interested in gracing your house with these wonderful features, then granite is the right choice for you. As Keystone, we are eager to assist and guide you in this decision and countertop installation journey. You can rely on us for any of your granite-related questions.

Our trained and experienced team is ready to help you; reach out if you have further questions about our products or services. 

What Else to Know about Granite? 

  • What is more expensive, granite or quartz?

The costs of both granite and quartz depend heavily on the quality of the slab, its thickness, rarity, and where it is quarried. For example, a high-quality, thick, and imported granite slab will cost more than an average quartz slab and vice versa. In other words, it is best to determine your budget and check out the specific slabs that fit in that. 

  • What are granite countertops good for?

Granite countertops are great for kitchen countertops, island tops, bathroom countertops, vanity tops, and more. They are a timelessly elegant and very versatile option that will offer functionality and natural beauty to any space it is installed in. 

  • Is quartz or granite better?

Both granite and quartz are fantastic options for countertops and have many advantages. They also have some disadvantages. Therefore, it is impossible to say one is necessarily better than the other. However, one may fit your tastes and needs better than the other. It is best to make a plus and minus list to assess which suits your needs more to make the ultimate choice.

  • Can you put hot pans on granite?

Granite is formed in the earth’s crust under immense heat, so it is a naturally heat-resistant stone. You can place hot pans on granite without worrying about scorch marks or burns. However, the sealant used on top isn’t as heat resistant. Therefore you can check the heat resistance of the sealant used or use trivets to protect to surface just to be safe.