Countertop composition is vital to its durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. So whether you are remodeling your kitchen counters or planning to purchase kitchen furniture, choosing the countertop material is one of the most important decisions you will need to make. For this reason, we provide a quick overview defining granite, discussing its properties, and the pros and cons of owning a granite countertop.
What is Granite?
Granite is a natural stone derived from the cooling and solidification of magma (molten rock) underneath the Earth's surface, classified as igneous rock. Magma that cools deep inside the Earth may take thousands to millions of years to reach the surface, accumulating lots of minerals during this time, therefore yielding relatively large granite rocks. Consequently, the texture of the granite material after undergoing this process is very coarse.
Geologists categorize igneous rocks as intrusive or extrusive based on the location and duration of magma cooling. When magma cools deep underneath the Earth, the igneous rock is intrusive. However, when the cooling process occurs on or near the Earth's surface (e.g., volcanos, fissures), it produces extrusive igneous rocks, which are smaller and less granular than the intrusive form due to the much shorter cooling times.
Granite is retrieved from the Earth through explosives and processed at factories (cut into slabs, polished, then assembled into many different products) to construct countertops, stairs, flooring, monuments, fountains, and other products we are used to seeing in our daily lives. However, due to the variability in the location and duration of magma cooling, every piece of granite is unique. This individuality leads to a disparity in the percentage of mineral composition, which accounts for the significant color variation- light to dark colors.
Granite Countertop Advantages
Look and Uniqueness
Granite is a naturally produced stone, so no two granite slabs have the same composition and appearance. In addition, it is available in a wide range of color patterns (pink, blue, gold, black, etc.), making it very probable that you will find a design that complements your kitchen and meets your particular taste.
100% Natural
There are no synthetic resins or additives used during the manufacturing process because it is an entirely natural stone.
Heat, Scratch, and Stain Resistant
Granite can withstand temperatures up to 1200°F, which exceeds the heat tolerance of other materials such as quartz and marble. So if a hot pan makes contact with a granite countertop for a short amount of time, it should not ruin it. This natural material is also scratch-resistant. The counter will still look new after years of heavy use of kitchen utensils (e.g., knives or forks touching the surface) for food preparation, cooking, and even eating with our little ones who love to play with everything they get their hands on. A sealant is applied to most granite countertops to seal their naturally porous surfaces, making them resistant to liquid uptake from various substances. An added benefit is that it acts as a barrier to seeding bacteria and moisture, making granite a good option for sanitary purposes. The product life of the sealant material is generally ten years.
Adds Value to the Home
A granite countertop with an aesthetic design will pique the interest of potential buyers and raise the value of your home.
Granite Countertop Disadvantages
Propensity for Cracking
Natural cracks or fissures are present within natural granite. Cracks can extend up to the surface after prolonged periods of excessive weight-bearing of heavy objects such as bulky cast iron pots and pans or people standing on the counter to change light bulbs or perform other household tasks. Exposure to excessive heat for an extended time can also result in cracking. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for repairing cracks or contact a professional.
Naturally Porous
Compared to other materials such as quartz, granite is relatively porous. Therefore, a sealant is required to prevent staining from the absorption of liquids. In addition, a sealant's protective shielding abilities typically last ten years before its effects begin to wear off, so periodic sealing is required.
Heavy
Natural granite stone is a weighty material. Therefore, cabinetry must be pretty sturdy to withstand the large mass of a granite countertop to prevent it from collapsing in the face of any additional weight added to the counter's surface. In addition, any remodeling job involving granite stone requires more than one set of hands due to its heavy nature.
Price Tag
Granite is relatively expensive compared to other counter materials. The cost of a granite countertop depends on the size and thickness of the slab. On average, be prepared to spend around $50 to $100 per square foot. Aesthetically pleasing designs might have higher price ranges.
Before purchasing kitchen cabinetry, islands, or tables, it helps to have a basic idea of the benefits and drawbacks of each type of countertop material, so you pick the most compatible countertop for your needs. These are just a few of the granite stone traits to consider.
