Are Granite Countertops a Good Idea?

Many homeowners are creating granite kitchen and bath countertops, as the stone is incredibly popular across the country. But how is granite formed? What is granite made of? Is it suitable for your specific practical and design needs? We’ll try answering this and many other questions about granite and help you decide whether granite is the right option for your home.

What Type of Rock Is Granite?

According to geology, granite is a type of igneous rock that is formed under many layers of sedimentary minerals. Granite is one of the most abundant igneous rocks on the earth’s surface. It is the best-known igneous rock primarily due to its uses inside homes, offices, and other structures. After it is harvested, granite can be found in almost anything: countertops, paving stones, stair treads, floor tiles, building veneers, or even cemetery monuments and headstones.

How Is Granite Formed?

As mentioned above, granite is one of the most common igneous rocks on the earth’s surface. It is formed under extreme pressure from underneath the Earth. Intrusive granite, one of two classifications for granite, is a name indicative of the typical location where it is found. Intrusive granite cools underground where it hardens to form the granite rock we’ve come to know and love. Extrusive granite, on the other hand, is granite that cools on the surface of the Earth. They are typically spewed onto the Earth’s surface through volcanic eruptions. They have low cooling times due to their exposure to the atmosphere, making them brittle and flaky.

What Is Granite Made of?

The exact composition of minerals that makes up granite varies from stone to stone. However, the typical composition of granite minerals we’ve come to know consists of variations of feldspar, quarry, and mineral sand.

Geographic Location of Granite

Granite can be found in great amounts in many parts of the earth. Most of the minerals that are used for granite countertops in the United States are quarried in Finland, Norway, Brazil, India, and China. No significant quantities of granite slabs are quarried in the US, though a large amount exists in Georgia, Idaho, Massachusetts, and other states.

Granite Texture and Color

As evidenced by the great assortment of granite countertops, granite stones also come in a variety of colors, ranging from the lightest whites to the darkest blacks. However, the most common types are predominantly white, gray, or pink depending on their mineralogy. Meanwhile, their texture when unpolished, in terms of smoothness, ranges from medium to coarse (typically described as phaneritic).

How Are Granite Countertops Made?

Raw granite is converted into countertops using special tools. But first, the granite has to be extracted from the ground. The stones are quarried from the site by chiseling and blasting them from the ground. Special milling machines are used to cut the granite stones into workable slabs. Typical dimensions of granite slabs are around four to five feet wide and seven to nine feet long. Special machines are then used to polish the stones so different slabs have a uniform thickness – about three quarters of an inch to about one and a quarter inch thick.

The manufacturer creates custom countertop designs depending on the specs you require as well as the size of the available slabs. Pre-cut slabs are also available for certain stone designs. You can take a look at the manufacturer’s showroom to get an idea of what these available designs are so you can decide whether to have one custom made based on the shape, orientation, size, and seam location of your next countertop project.

Pros of Granite Countertops

The main advantage of granite countertops is that they’re natural, beautiful, low maintenance, and ultra durable. But there’s more to know about the benefits of this popular material.

Natural Material

Granite is a natural stone and granite countertops don’t contain synthetic materials often found in other countertop materials such as laminate.

Materials such as quartz are sometimes advertised as natural, but they can contain resins and other synthetics. Granite, on the other hand, is 100% natural.

Unique Patterns

One of the most appealing aspects of granite is the individuality. Each granite slab is unique with its distinct patterns, colors and veining ensuring that your countertop will be one-of-a-kind and unlike any other.

Heat Resistant

Granite doesn’t just look pretty, it’s practical, too. It’s heat resistant and durable, even more so than quartz or marble.

In fact, you can place a hot pan (up to 1200 degrees F) directly onto a granite countertop without risk of damage. Doing this with another countertop can cause permanent discoloration and damage. For example, quartz can only handle between 150 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

While granite can withstand high heats, it is still advisable to use protective covering between hot items and your countertops.

Stain Resistant

If you spill sauce, wine, vinegar, juice, or any other staining substance, don’t stress. Not only is granite heat and scratch resistant, but it’s also naturally stain resistant. And when well sealed it’s nearly stain-proof.

Keep in mind, you should always wipe spills within a few minutes. If left on the countertop, acidic substances can degrade the seal and leave the granite more vulnerable to stains.

Scratch Resistant

Granite is one of the hardest natural stones available, which makes it highly resistant to scratches from everyday use such as cutting food or placing utensils on the surface.

Low Maintenance

Day to day, granite doesn’t need any special care.

You can even use harsh chemicals to clean the granite, allowing you to disinfect the kitchen without worrying that you’ll damage your counters.

Though granite can handle harsh chemicals, it is not advisable to use them everyday. Instead, use a mild all-purpose cleaner, granite specific cleaner, or just water and a microfiber cloth for daily cleaning.

Granite countertops need to be sealed but most arrive pre-sealed, which lasts up to 10 years. And when it’s time to re-seal, it’s an easy DIY process.

Sanitary

Granite is non-porous when properly sealed meaning it doesn’t absorb liquids and is resistant to bacteria and stains. This makes granite countertops a hygienic surface for food preparation and reduces the risk of cross-contamination.

Durable

Granite is an extremely durable material, resistant to scratches, chips and general wear and tear, ensuring that your countertops will maintain their beauty and functionality for years.

Versatile

Granite is incredibly versatile, you can use it for kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, walls, floors, and much more. Thanks to its durability and appealing aesthetic, it’s a material you can use throughout your home, inside and out.

If you have a lovely outdoor kitchen area and are looking for a countertop to hold up to the elements, granite is a great option.

As long as the granite is well sealed. It’s safe for outdoor use. It won’t absorb moisture and withstands the elements.

Wide Range of Pricing

When granite started to gain popularity in the 90s, it was considered a luxury material reserved for expensive mansions. It was imported into the United States from Italy and came with a hefty price tag.

Since then, other countries such as Brazil, China and India, have become the largest exporters of granite and the shipping and cutting process have evolved due to the greater availability of the product.

As a result, granite countertop costs have decreased and it’s become more affordable for most homeowners.

While some granite options are still costly, others are more affordable. Prices range significantly, so you’re likely to find a slab that works within your budget.

Adds Value to Your Home

As long as you choose an attractive quality design, granite can substantially enhance the overall value and appeal of your home.

Since granite is sustainable, durable, low-maintenance, and is considered a luxury item, it impresses buyers and can raise the selling price of your home.

Cons of Granite Countertops

Although there is a lot to love about granite countertops, before you order a bunch of slabs for your home projects consider some of the disadvantages.

Heavy

Granite is a dense and heavy material requiring proper installation and structural support to bear the weight. Additional reinforcement may be necessary for cabinets or base structures, increasing the overall cost.

Can Be Expensive

Although you can find quality granite for a budget-friendly price, it can still be expensive when opting for a higher quality slab.

Susceptible to Cracks

While granite is durable, it is not indestructible. It can crack under extreme force or when it is subjected to heavy impacts, such as when dropping a heavy object onto the surface.

Needs to Be Sealed

Granite is naturally porous so it needs to be sealed. Most manufacturers apply the sealer to the countertops before installing, and this initial sealing will last for up to 10 years.

But if the granite comes unsealed, or the seal has worn away, you run the risk of the granite absorbing liquids left on the surface. Fortunately re-sealing is not difficult. There are lots of helpful videos online if you need some guidance.

Prone to Fading

Granite, like any other natural stone, will fade over time, especially if it’s exposed to direct sunlight. If you plan on using granite for an outdoor kitchen countertop, make sure it’s covered. If protecting the granite from the sun is not possible, just be aware that the initial bright shine may slowly dull.

Cold

Granite can be cold to the touch, especially winter. Preparing your breakfast on a chilly morning, even indoors, might take you by surprise when you go to touch the countertop. If you leave a warm mug of coffee on a cold granite counter, it may cool down quickly.

Seams Will Show

If you have an L or U shaped layout, the slabs will need to be cut and joined together, therefore, the seams will show. Good installers can minimize the appearance of seams, but they won’t get rid of them altogether. Of course, if you are going for granite for a kitchen island counter, this won’t be a problem.

Professional Installation Required

Due to the weight and complexity of installation, professional help is usually a must for granite. This adds to the overall cost of installing granite countertops.

Looks Dated

Some granite countertop designs are now considered outdated, especially the darker colors.

The trend nowadays leans towards bright, white, and solid colors. While you can choose a lighter shade of granite, you can’t get a completely solid color (like you can with quartz) because of the natural grains and veins.

Limited Availability of Consistent Patterns

While the unique patterns of granite are often a desirable feature, achieving a consistent look across larger countertop areas or multiple installations can be challenging. This may be a concern for those seeking a uniform appearance.

Brittle Edges

The edges of granite countertops can be more susceptible to chipping or damage than the main surface. Care must be taken to avoid impacts or accidents leading to edge damage.

You’re Stuck With It

Granite is a forever countertop. It will last for decades to come. But if you change your mind, once installed, it’s difficult (nearly impossible) to remove it without damaging the cabinets underneath. If you’re planning to remove granite countertops, prepare to rip up the entire kitchen.

Bottom Line: Are Granite Countertops Worth It?

Granite countertops are all natural, free of synthetics, and eco-conscious. They’re super durable and available in various designs, providing a low maintenance option both indoors and outdoors.

There is no doubt that granite countertops can be a beautiful addition to your home. The right granite can not only add value to your home, but it also provides a unique touch of elegance and sophistication that can literally last a lifetime.

Remember, granite is a choice. Ultimately, the countertop product you decide to use should be a reflection of you, your family,your lifestyle, and personal taste. Take your time and make sure it blends well with your existing (or new) kitchen cabinets and that it fits well with your overall design plan.