If you’ve been thinking about replacing your old, stained and dingy kitchen countertops with gleaming, white granite, you may be wondering whether you should choose this type of stone. Here are a few important tips for maintaining your granite kitchen countertops. Read on to learn more about the cost and color options for this durable material, as well as care and maintenance. This durable material is also more stain resistant than other materials, so you’ll need to make sure it’s kept clean.
Cost
The cost of granite kitchen countertops varies wildly depending on the size of the countertops, the type of stone used, and the quality of the installation. If you’re looking for a unique, natural look, granite is the way to go. But if you’re on a budget, there are other options available. Listed below are a few of the more affordable options. Read on to learn more. Choosing the right materials for your home will help you save money and time.
Before installing your new granite countertops, ensure the surface is level and free of uneven areas. Otherwise, it may crack. Extra work will increase the price. Also, remember that large overhangs on islands or appliances will require supports. This is why a fabricator will be more expensive. While local stores may offer you the option to choose your own slab, you’ll be responsible for the installation and maintenance costs. You’ll also have to purchase grout and tile to match your countertops.
Colors
Brown granite can be a neutral alternative to a bold color. It goes well with wooden furniture and cabinetry, and is subtle enough to fit into country-style kitchens. There are several brown granite slabs that range from light to medium, and you can opt for a combination of these to find the right look for your home. Brown granite can also have a subtle irregular pattern that gives the look of a natural stone. However, brown granite countertops should not be used as a bold statement.
Choosing a color for your granite kitchen countertops should be based on the color scheme of the room. White kitchens are typically white, but there are several shades of brown and black granite that have different characteristics. To make your kitchen look more interesting, consider contrasting light and dark shades of granite. Granite with flecks of dark color will stand out and attract the eye of the viewer. However, white countertops can also make a room feel claustrophobic.
Durability
When choosing granite for your kitchen counters, consider the type of stain you are most likely to encounter. Because granite is very dense, you may find some areas that are porous. The good news is that most stains can be prevented with proper care. While granite countertops require sealing every year, this is relatively quick and only takes ten to fifteen minutes. If you are worried that your countertops are porous, granite can be treated with an epoxy sealer.
Granite is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas of the kitchen. The natural stone is scratch-resistant, but using a knife on it could cause your blades to scratch and leave unsightly steel marks. Cutting directly on a granite counter is not recommended, but using cutting boards can protect your granite counters. In the event that a small scratch appears, granite can easily be repaired. If you do experience scratching, however, granite is the best option.
Care
To keep granite countertops looking beautiful, you must follow a few simple maintenance steps. The first step in caring for granite countertops is to avoid using abrasive or harsh chemicals. While it is possible to clean these surfaces with a steel wool, wetting it can permanently damage them. However, it is still possible to remove oily stains using a paste made of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained area with a soft cloth. Leave it overnight, then carefully wipe it off. Repeat this procedure as necessary.
In addition to following a simple cleaning routine, you must also take note of the chemical makeup of your granite. Some types are harder than others. Knowing what stains your granite will prevent is a great start. You can also learn which materials will cause the most damage to your granite countertops by looking up information about the types of stains that might damage your countertop. Knowing what to look for when cleaning granite is the first step in caring for your new kitchen countertops.