About Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are known for their inherent beauty, but what exactly is granite and how does it get its beautiful looks? Granite is classified as an igneous rock. This means that beneath the earth's crust, molten rock has cooled and hardened before breaching the surface of the earth. Because this molten rock stayed beneath the surface of the earth, it was able to cool more slowly. This allows different minerals to form together and orientate themselves within the stone before hardening.
This natural slower cooling process is what helps to make granite so incredibly hard. However, this process also creates a natural porosity to the stone. This means that your granite countertops, in their natural state, will be susceptible to staining. That’s why we strongly recommend including a high-quality sealant with your granite countertops installation services. You can choose a 25-year sealer so you won’t have to worry about stains for a very long time.
Benefits of Granite Countertops
Granite stone countertops are an excellent choice for your Lexington home, office, or commercial space. Granite offers timeless, sophisticated beauty, as well as a bevy of other benefits.
Superior Durability
Quartzite countertops are renowned for their exceptional durability, making them a reliable choice. With proper care, regular maintenance, and the application of a high-quality sealant, these countertops offer long-lasting beauty that will endure for many years.
Minimal Maintenance
Contrary to some beliefs, granite countertops need little to no maintenance. Often priced by the square foot including installation, living with granite may be more affordable than you think! Your new natural stone kitchen countertops won’t need any special, high-priced products for daily cleaning - a mild soapy water mixture will do just fine!
Added Value
Your natural stone countertops will last for decades and they will never depreciate over time. Granite kitchen countertops also offer a great return on your investment if you ever decide to sell your home. Granite countertops will appeal to a wider range of serious homebuyers and may help garner higher offers from multiple buyers.
Granite Countertop Colors
There is nothing on earth that can quite compare to the natural palette of granite. Ultimately, the color of your natural stone countertops will depend on the region and specific minerals present during formation. Some of the most popular granite-producing regions include Italy, South America, Brazil, China, India, Canada, and the United States.
There are a number of granite quarries all around the world that produce a stunning array of natural hues and patterns. From bold blacks and pale pinks to brilliant whites and everything in between, you’re sure to find the perfect hue to match your vision.
Kitchen Granite Countertops
Whether you’re a master chef or a weekend warrior, kitchen granite countertops are the perfect choice. Granite is a naturally harder stone, so you won’t have to worry about cracking and chipping over the years. Unlike marble, granite offers the durability and outstanding performance that can handle the added wear and tear of a well-used, busy kitchen for decades.
Granite countertops are also naturally heat-resistant. This means you won’t have to ever worry about hot pots and pans scorching or burning your kitchen countertops. Kitchen granite countertops are also incredibly easy to care for. With a well-maintained sealant, a mild soap and water mixture is all you need for spills, spot cleaning, and daily wipe-downs!
Bathroom Granite Countertops & Vanities
Granite isn’t limited to just kitchen countertops. Bathroom granite countertops and vanities offer a number of benefits! Dreaming of creating a spa-like getaway with your bathroom home improvement project? What about a stunning masterpiece in the guest bath that will leave your family and friends talking long after the party ends? You’ll be hard pressed to find a material that can surpass the performance, durability, and aesthetics of granite bathroom countertops and vanities.
Consider the added benefits of the natural heat-resistance, decades of superior performance, and hypoallergenic characteristics of granite. This makes it easy to see why granite countertops remain the top choice for homeowners and buyers alike. No matter what your vision, bathroom granite countertops & vanities can fit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about granite countertops in Lexington, KY.
Marble countertops offer classic elegance with veined patterns but require more care and can be pricier. Granite countertops have a speckled appearance, are highly durable, and easier to maintain, making them great for busy kitchens and cost-effective. Choose based on your style, budget, and intended use.
Yes, granite is indeed heat resistant. This characteristic is one of the notable strengths of granite as a countertop material. It can withstand direct contact with the occasional hot pot or pan without being significantly affected.
However, while granite is heat resistant, it's always a good practice to use trivets or hot pads to prevent any potential long-term impact on the stone's surface.
You can keep your granite countertops looking fabulous by following a few friendly steps. First, use cutting boards to protect against scratches and chips from sharp knives. When placing heavy pots and pans on the countertop, do it gently to prevent potential cracks.
For hot items, use trivets or heat-resistant pads to avoid sudden temperature changes that could stress the granite. Keep it clean with mild, non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth to maintain its shine. Don't forget to seal it regularly as per the manufacturer's recommendations for added protection. Ultimately, a little care goes a long way in preserving your granite countertop's beauty and longevity.
Yes, granite countertops should be sealed to protect them from stains and damage. Granite is a natural stone, and while it is relatively resistant to staining, it is still porous to some extent. Sealing creates a protective barrier on the surface, preventing liquids from penetrating and causing discoloration or damage.
Proper cleaning and maintenance are also essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your granite countertops. With regular sealing and care, your granite countertops will continue to enhance your kitchen or bathroom for many years.
When granite countertops get wet, there's usually no harm done. Granite doesn't absorb water, so it won't warp or crack. Instead, it may temporarily darken, highlighting its natural beauty.
Regular maintenance, like sealing, is important to prevent staining, but overall, granite handles moisture well and is an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
It's always a good idea to clean up spills promptly to be on the safe side. Some acidic substances, like lemon juice or vinegar, can potentially cause mild discoloration if left for an extended period.
To prevent this, regular sealing of your granite countertop is recommended; it acts as an extra layer of protection against stains.
Granite countertops can last for decades, and often, their lifespan can exceed 50 years or more with proper care. The durability of granite is due to its natural hardness and resistance to wear and tear.
Regular maintenance, including sealing every 3-5 years, helps extend their life by preventing stains and ensuring their continued beauty.
Granite countertops are resistant to scratches, making them a durable choice. They can handle regular kitchen activities without showing significant wear and tear.
While it's generally safe to cut and chop on them, using cutting boards is advisable to maintain their appearance. Granite's natural hardness and density contribute to its scratch resistance. So, while not entirely scratch-proof, they are highly resilient in everyday use.
Absolutely! Granite countertops are quite easy to maintain, making them a fantastic choice for your kitchen or bathroom. Their natural hardness and resistance to stains and scratches mean you won't have to baby them.
Basic daily care involves wiping up spills promptly with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Routine cleaning is a breeze—just use a gentle cleaner and avoid abrasive scrubbers to keep that beautiful shine intact.
Yes, granite countertops can potentially harbor bacteria if they are not properly maintained and professionally sealed. Routine cleaning with mild soap and warm water is crucial for hygiene, and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers will help preserve the sealant. Pay special attention to seams and edges, as these areas may be more susceptible to bacterial buildup if not adequately sealed or cleaned.
In summary, while granite is generally resistant to bacteria, proper maintenance, professional sealing, and regular cleaning are essential steps to ensure a hygienic and safe countertop surface.
