What You Need To Know About Granite Countertops

Granite is one of the most durable and elegant stone materials used for making kitchen surfaces. It is an igneous rock formed when molten rock cools, and the cooling speed, pressure and temperature of the molten rock provide a variety of appearances and determine the density of this stone. Because of its wide variety of colors, granite is able to blend in any type of kitchen décor. Granite countertops can give your kitchen an outstanding look. Its rarity, high quality and versatility make it an expensive addition to your kitchen. To get the best out of these countertops you've installed, you'll need to know a thing or two about choosing, maintaining and installing granite countertops.



Factors to Consider When Choosing a Granite Countertop

You should always consider the type of Granite used to make your countertop. Your budget primarily determines the type of granite countertop that you'll have in your kitchen. This is because there are several types of granite stones, each with different prices depending on its unique and natural design pattern. The most expensive granite is one with an unrepeated pattern of color known as "movement."

Always consider the substances used to treat the granite used to make your countertop. Some substances change the color of the granite with time while others react with the granite to create a very unpleasant "cloudy" appearance. You should also choose a color that suits your kitchen. You can check whether your granite has been artificially dyed by rubbing some nail polish on the surface of your countertop. Make sure that you test the quality of the stone. You can perform a simple test by pouring lemon juice on your countertop. The desirable varieties of granite will take more than one minute to stain. If the stone absorbs the lemon juice quickly and its color darkens, you'll want to cover your granite countertops with a good sealant.

Installing Granite Countertops

Unless you have experience, it's not recommended that you install the granite by yourself. Your dealer can recommend a qualified installation contractor or may include professional installation as a part of the purchase price. You should always inspect the stone before you have it installed. This enables you to locate any problem such as cracks and stains.

Maintaining Granite countertops

Although these are not as porous as marble, they still need to be sealed so that they maintain their overall appearance. It's always a good idea to ask your supplier about the type of sealant and PH cleaning liquids appropriate for the type of granite you are using. Though most types of these countertops need to be sealed and polished every three years, you should always ask the dealer how regularly you should polish and seal your countertops. Because of their dense nature, not all types of granite countertops need to be sealed. You should never for whatever reasons use your granite countertop as a substitute for a cutting board. With proper care, you'll find your countertops an attractive, functional choice for your kitchen.