As a homeowner, you would definitely want everything that is best for your living space. Whether it is the flooring, drapery, wallpaper, furniture, or decorative items, every single aspect of the home needs to match your vision and taste perfectly. The same applies to your kitchen as well. When it comes to this area of your home, the kitchen countertop would probably be the first thing to come to mind.
After all, this is the heart of your cooking space, where you will cut, chop and blend dishes or place your cup of coffee and just relax after you are done. The choice of the right material for your kitchen countertop surely deserves all your attention. Granite is one of the materials that make the top choice for discerning homeowners. So if you are still considering the options for your new kitchen or a remodeling project, here are some good reasons why you should prioritize granite.
Aesthetic value
Undoubtedly, the first thing that would catch your eye about this stone is its stunning beauty. The texture has a natural appeal which is not surpassed by any other material that you may be considered as an option. It is smooth, luxurious and shining and also remains ageless if you take proper care over the years. Amazingly, you get a range of colors to choose amongst while there is an equally wonderful variety in patterns such as specks, swirls, and veins. You will be surprised to know that each slab of granite is naturally unique, which means that you will have something that no one can duplicate.
Durability
Granite is just second to diamond when it comes to hardness, which makes it a super-durable material to invest in for your home. If properly installed and maintained, it has the capability to last for a lifetime. The stone is heat resistant in addition to being hard and durable. Even though you must not place hot pots and pans over the surface but it is not likely to get damaged if you do it accidentally. Though it does not chip or crack easily, you can get it repaired without much effort or a major expense. Moreover, it does not absorb liquids or get stained easily unless you are really careless with spilling food items and not cleaning them.
Minimal maintenance
Except for getting the countertop surface sealed at the time of installation and an annual resealing, there is not much that you need to do in the name of maintenance of this material. Cleaning is easy as well because all that you need to do is to clean it with dish soap and warm water. Alternatively, you can use a granite cleaner that is safe for everyday use if you want to prolong the life of the material and keep it shiny over the years. Make sure that you clean spills immediately to prevent staining. Also, keep inspecting the stone on a regular basis so that you can address problems like scratches and stains to prolong the life and preserve the beauty of the countertop.
Long-term investment
Another reason why granite is usually referred to as a smart homeowner’s choice is that it is a long term investment rather than a short-term expense. A granite countertop can last for as long as three decades while options such as laminate counters need replacement every few years. Even if you have to spend considerably more on the material in the initial stage, these countertops serve as a cost-effective option in the long run. Also, you will be saved from the inconvenience involved in replacement for years to come.
Enhanced home value
Not only do granite countertops make your kitchen look beautiful but also add to the value of your home. It is much like an investment that gets you 100% returns because this is a timeless trend that will always be there. In case you wish to sell the property in the future, this is one parameter that can help you command a good value from the potential buyers. In fact, this can even influence the potential buyers into selecting your property over the others.
Now that you know all the reasons why granite serves as a great option for kitchen countertops, it is time to invest in one. Whether you are ready to move into your new home or looking for a kitchen makeover, do choose granite over the other options and keep your kitchen looking new and beautiful for the years to come.
