Choosing Granite for Your Kitchen Remodel

More and more homeowners are choosing granite countertops during their kitchen remodel. The reasons are plenty, but perhaps you are researching countertop options and are wondering what the big deal with granite is. After all, it can be quite expensive to install. There are many great reasons why new homebuilders and remodeling homeowners are choosing granite over traditional tile or laminate.

While you can find some fairly reasonably priced granite slabs, the more unique of a pattern you choose, the more expensive it will be. Granite is a natural stone that is unearthed all over the world, shaped and polished into slabs and tiles. You can find colors and designs as informal or ornate as you desire, from a single shade of a color to an array that resembles the galaxies in space.

If you are putting together the kitchen of your dreams, and want the most for your money, here are a few reasons why granite is a great choice:

Beauty that Lasts

Granite is extremely tough. In fact, on the hardness scale, it comes in second to diamonds. It can withstand the heat from pans and withstands spills fairly well. While some stones can be stained, they can also be sealed for extra protection. Because granite is a natural stone, it is available in an unimaginable array of colors, designs and patterns. Each slab is so unique that it truly gives kitchens a beauty that traditional tiles just cannot.

Slab, Tile or Overlay

The great thing about granite is that there are several installation options. Most commonly, granite is installed in a standard sized slab. If you find a slab in a design you love that is a little too big, it can be cut to size. You can also get granite in tiles if you prefer that look and want to deal with the grout. Tiles or an overlay of granite above an existing countertop may be used as a cost factor, or due to limitations in your kitchen’s design and layout.

A Baker’s Delight

Granite countertops are a dream for cooks and bakers. Because they withstand heat, pots and pans can be placed directly on the surface for each access. In addition, the large flat uniform surface allows for simple, convenient and easy prep and clean-up. The smooth surface also allows bakers to roll out dough or form shapes without worrying about bumps an notches in the surface underneath.

A few things to also consider: granite can dull knives if a cutting board is not used, and it can also crack if you have a habit of beating your countertops with a cleaver or other heavy object. For most homeowners and cooks though, granite is the perfect option for a luxurious and unique look that lasts for years with little maintenance.

About the Author:
Joe Cline writes articles for Austin Texas Realtor. Other articles written by the author related to Cedar Park real estate and Austin real estate can be found on the net.