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Are Granite Countertops Worth the Investment?

Are Granite Countertops Worth the Investment?

Granite is considered a high-end natural stone for kitchen or bathroom countertops. If you are spending a large sum of money on granite, it is important to be sure that you are getting good value for your money as a homeowner. 

The sections below explain why granite countertops are a wise investment for your kitchen and bathroom countertops. They will discuss what granite countertops are, their pros and cons, and how to get the best value. 

What are Granite Countertops? 

Granite is a naturally occurring igneous rock rich in quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals. It is formed slowly over millions of years by the cooling and crystallization of melted rocks in the earth’s crust. 

Like most stone countertops, granite is mined and hewn from the earth, smoothed out, cut into granite slabs, and made ready for fabrication and installation.  

Because of its 100% natural composition, granite offers a natural, one-of-a-kind aesthetic appeal, color and pattern such that no two granite slabs are exactly alike. 

Why Granite Countertops are Worth Every Penny: The Pros and Cons

To accurately estimate the worth of a granite countertop material, the logical thing to do is to weigh the pros and cons of granite countertops and see which side the scale tilts towards. 

The Pros of Granite Countertops 

  • Durability: High-quality granite is naturally hard and tough and can last an entire lifetime. Installing granite countertops offers long-term value because they can withstand wear and tear from high traffic or frequent use. If properly sealed, granite is also stain, heat, and scratch-resistant. 
  • Timelessness: Granite countertops have been in use for more than a century. Their elegant aesthetics and earthy, neutral tones make them suitable for all kinds of interior design styles and trends. They’ll remain valuable, as they don’t seem to be going out of style any time soon. 
  • Variety: Granite comes in a wide range of colors, vein patterns, and finishes, so no two designs are exactly the same. This adds to the unique aesthetic appeal of any space and offers a good number of options to choose from. 
  • Elegant Design: Choose granite for an elegant and luxurious home improvement. Granite is that right material that screams class, timeless luxury and elegance. It just changes the game for your bathroom or kitchen remodel. 
  • Environment-friendly: Granite is considered environment-friendly because it is a natural stone and does not emit any toxic or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are harmful to green life. Also, 100% of granite countertops are recycled to be reused in other home and construction projects, if need be. 
  • Easy to Maintain: Granite countertops require regular sealing to prevent staining and scratching. In addition, they are pretty easy to clean and maintain. Use mild soap and water and a clean, soft cloth to wipe your countertop surface after each use, and you are good to go. 
  • Increased Home Value: Granite kitchen countertops can significantly increase your home’s resale value. However, it is important to note that this may not be the case 100% of the time. Your property value might increase, but that may have no effect on the buyer’s perceived value. 

You should have a good understanding of your home buyers’ preferences and be sure that a granite countertop is right for the home environment and other kitchen features such as the cabinets, flooring, etc 

Cons of Granite Countertops 

  • Cost: Granite is one of the most expensive materials in the stone market. Prices may vary depending on the thickness of the slab, market environment, etc. 
  • Requires Expert Installation: Granite is heavy, so it requires professional installation, which significantly increases the overall cost of installing your granite countertops.
  • Maintenance: Unlike quartz countertops, granite countertops are porous and prone to stains and scratches unless properly sealed as often as required. Sealing gives the best results and helps to protect them from stains and bacterial growth. 
  • Limited Colour Options: Granite is available in various natural colors and patterns which are all within a range of neutral and earthy tones and colours. This natural variations may not be suitable for some decor styles that require brighter and more vibrant colour options. 

3 Tips to Maximize Your Return on Investment For Granite Countertops

Whether it is used in the kitchen, bathroom or anywhere else within your space, granite countertops add value to your home and consequently increases the value of reselling. 

Below are three tips we suggest you consider to get full value for your granite slabs. 

1. Consider in-person selection of granite materials 

Each piece of granite is unique, so it is important to see the slabs that you are selecting in person and visualize exactly how they appear especially if it is your first time working with a supplier, so that you can approve the exact slab you select in the showroom before it is delivered to you. 

2. Pick 3 cm thick slabs for aesthetic appeal

Granite countertops’ thickness can vary from 2 to 5 cm, depending on the space it is to be used and its purpose. Expert recommendations suggest 3 cm slabs for kitchen countertops because they don’t require extra support, won’t cost as much compared to thicker options and creates the kitchen aesthetics most home buyers are looking for. 

3. Work with an experienced granite fabricator and installer

Choosing the right professionals for installation is as important as choosing the right materials. If granite counters aren’t installed correctly, they are more prone to cracks, chips, and stains in the long run. 

If you are looking to get new granite countertops solely to increase your home’s value for a resale, here are important questions you should ask. 

  1. Are there other major design and functionality issues?
  2. Will the new countertop match the rest of your kitchen? 
  3. Do other active listing homes in your area or neighborhood have granite countertops? 
  4. Are buyers looking for customizable or move-in-ready homes? 

Answering these questions and gathering information from your real estate agent and other homeowners will help you to make the best decisions required for maximum ROI on your property. 

How to Maintain the Value of Your Granite Countertop

Although granite requires little maintenance to keep it in good condition, making an effort has a significant impact on its value over time. 

  1. 1. Use a soft, clean cloth or sponge to wipe down your granite countertops after each use. 
  2. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges that can scratch the surface of granite.
  3. Use pH-neutral cleaners made specifically for granite surfaces.
  4. Clean up oil spills and stains immediately to prevent them from setting in.
  5. Avoid acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice, which can cause discoloration of the countertop surfaces. 
  6. Reseal your granite countertops as often as required to ensure they remain resistant to stains and bacteria.
  7. Use trivets or hot pads to avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface of the granite. 
  8. Use cutting boards when chopping or cutting food and vegetables to minimize the risk of scratches. 
  9. Perform routine cleaning as often as possible to remove hidden grease and grime. 

Granite countertops are not just an aesthetic enhancement but a practical investment in the value and functionality of your home. With their timeless appeal, durability, and environmental friendliness, granite counters offer a substantial return on investment, especially if chosen and installed carefully.

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