Prices range significantly, so you’ll find a slab that works within your budget. Although you can find quality granite for a budget-friendly price, it can still be expensive, especially when opting for a higher-quality slab or unique colors. Thanks to its durability and appealing aesthetic, it’s a material you can use throughout your home, inside and out. Homeowners wishing to create a number of interior design themes can turn to black granite countertops in order to really tie the whole look of their kitchen or bathroom together. There are pros and cons to using each material, so it's just a matter of deciding what’s right for your needs as well as your budget. If you’re buying the granite countertop from a separate company than the one installing it, make sure you choose a company that guarantees they bring it into the kitchen. Since granite is sustainable, durable, and low-maintenance, it impresses buyers and can raise the selling price of your home. From there, granite slabs are cut and measured to fit into your home and countertop specifications. GRANITE COUNTERTOPS PROS & CONS Granite Pros. The cost of granite also starts at about $40 per s.f. Advantages of Epoxy Countertops. Day to day, granite doesn’t need any special care. Pros & Cons of Granite Countertops Sustainability. Granite countertops are scratch-resistant. Solid surface countertops offer a seamless look with low-maintenance style. Granite is a forever countertop. If protecting the granite from the sun is not possible, just be aware that the initial bright shine may slowly dull. If you are replacing your countertops with granite, the remodeling process isn’t simple. It all depends on the look you are going for. -Consider using two different counters in one kitchen – one for work surfaces and one for the island (if applicable). Of course, if you are going for granite for a kitchen island counter, this won’t be a problem. However, since it takes... Heat Resistance. It will last for decades to come. Granite is mined as single, large slabs that are 100% natural stone and no two sheets are alike. But you'll definitely want to pay attention to the drawbacks discussed here as well. We at Granite Selection have been in the business long enough to know the preferred materials for kitchen countertops. Cost: $75 to $125 per square foot, installed. Here is a list of the pros and cons of this timeless material. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Prudent Reviews earns fees when you click on links within our articles and make qualifying purchases. If you’re interested in granite countertops but aren’t sure if it’s in your budget, you can get a free estimate from local contractors using this form on HomeAdvisor.com. Granite used for countertops begins with mining the stone, deep in the ground, and cutting it into slabs, typically 9 to 10 feet long and 5 to 6 feet wide. … and can go as high as a couple hundred dollars for rare stones. Pros and Cons of Epoxy Countertops in Your Kitchen. Soapstone. Jeckson - Nov 20, 2019. But, if you want the most stain-resistant material, go with quartz. Keep in mind, though, trends come and go, and granite has been in-style for well over twenty years. If you’re looking for something unique that will stand out in your kitchen and you enjoy the natural stone look, granite is definitely worth it. Granite is a sanitary option. So, let’s take a closer look at the key features of the two most popular types of granite finishes – honed granite versus polished granite . Our @elfontheshelf ma, This week only! Concrete counter photo via DIY Network, stainless steel counter photo via Decoist. Keep in mind; you should always wipe spills within a few minutes. 12 Pros & Cons of Quartz Countertops: Are They Worth the High Price? Although there’s a lot to love about granite countertops, before you order a bunch of slabs, consider some of the disadvantages. Porcelain really has a lot going for it as a bathroom or kitchen countertop. Silestone Countertops: The Pros & Cons. If you’re all set on a white or gray countertop we can help you narrow down your choices. Cost: $50 to $150 per square foot, installed. Confused about what countertops are the best for your kitchen? Stone with a lower talc content is a bit harder and is used to make sinks, countertops and window sills. Some granite countertop designs are now considered outdated, especially the darker colors. If you want a stain-resistant material, granite and quartz are both excellent options. If you’re sure you want granite, choose the design wisely. Both granite and marble are natural stones. In contrast, quartz has been steadily increasing since December 2009. Each piece of granite is unique. There are lots of helpful videos online if you need some extra guidance. Conclusion of the Pros and Cons of Epoxy Countertops. This article provides an honest white quartz countertops pros and cons breakdown. You may unsubscribe at any time. Needless to say, choosing the right countertop material is critical. Cons – Very heavy and difficult to install. So you know, risks of cracking come with most countertop materials, including quartz and marble. Pros – Affordable, warm look and feel, and naturally anti-bacterial. Cost: $35 to $200 per square foot, installed. The mineral makeup determines its color and pattern. Featured Image Source: SilestoneUSA.com. So yes, granite is a “renewable” resource. It’s mainly composed of quartz and feldspar, but it can also contain mica, amphiboles, and other minerals. If you drop something heavy on your granite countertop, it can crack. Choosing the best countertop option for your bathroom or kitchen is tough, particularly with kitchens. On the previous article, we have reviewed about the Quartz countertop secrets and facts so please read about it to know more about the real truth. All other photos courtesy of Skit Inc. Free expert real estate investing & reno advice. Create More Usable Space with Outdoor Sheds, A new episode of the #RealEstateRebel #podcast is, Guess who’s back...Kendra! Disclaimer: Please note that scottmcgillivray.com participates in select affiliate advertising programs. Granite doesn’t just look pretty; it’s practical, too. Granite is a natural stone, and granite countertops don’t contain synthetic resins and additives often found in other countertop materials, such as laminate. You can find granite that’s red, pink, brown, blue, grey, or white. … This guide covers unique properties, pros and cons, looks, maintenance requirements, durability aspects, and pricing considerations […] Here are the pros and cons of the most popular counter materials. And when well sealed, it’s nearly stain-proof. How Much Are Granite Countertops? The point is, with granite, you have your choice of options. Pros – Low price point, wide variety of colors and styles, and durable enough to withstand everyday use. If you chip or crack your granite, it should be repaired by a professional. Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. Cons – Not as durable as natural stone, not heat resistant, and can be difficult to clean. Most manufacturers will apply the sealer to the countertops before installing, and this initial sealing will last for up to 10 years. Expensive Between different granite countertops pros and cons, it is probably the fact that granite can get expensive stands out the most for homeowners. In this section, I will break down each pro in detail, so you know what to expect from granite countertops. Both quartz and granite countertops have a natural allure that adds a modern, updated look to any space. If you leave a warm mug of coffee on cold granite, it may cool down quickly. As long as you choose an attractive and quality design, granite can increase the value of your home, especially if you’re replacing laminate, tile, or other cheap and outdated materials. It’s heavy and can crack during the process. The Pros and Cons of Countertop Materials. It is also a material that is highly scratch and heat-resistant. There is a world of options, like stone and quartz, zinc and concrete, laminate and a product that revolutionized kitchens back in 1967: acrylic solid-surface material. Though granite can handle harsh cleaners, I don’t recommend using them every day. Since then, other countries such as Brazil, China, and India, have become the largest exporters of granite, and the shipping and cutting processes have evolved. It has versatility that granite cannot match. ft. Make sure that your vision aligns with all of quartz’s pros and cons before you drop thousands of dollars on her countertops. You can find very good quality slabs at your local stone yard at the bottom end of the price range. While you can choose a lighter shade of granite, you can’t get a completely solid color (like you can with quartz) because of the natural grains and veining. Bottom Line: Are Granite Countertops Worth It? So preparing your breakfast on a chilly morning, even indoors, might take you by surprise when you go to touch the countertop. © 2020 Prudent Reviews LLC. If you have an L or U shaped layout, the slabs will need to be cut and joined together. And for every color, there are thousands of shades and patterns. While granite can withstand high heats, I still advise using protective covering between hot items and your countertops. Granite is an igneous rock that forms from the crystallization of magma beneath the Earth’s surface. Choosing Countertops: Solid Surface. Granite, especially because it is a natural material, is highly attractive. Make sure your cabinetry structure is sturdy enough to handle the load. The trend nowadays leans towards bright, white, and solid colors. Cons – Can chip, and may show visible seams where pieces meet. Marble, for example, is elegant in appearance, while granite offers a more natural look. And, although the risk is pretty slim, be careful with heavy objects. Granite countertop colors are typically grouped into 10 basic categories: beige, black, blue, … Besides the aesthetic, quartz is gaining ground on granite due to its superior ability to resist stains. For example, quartz can only handle between 150 and 300°F of heat exposure. If you get tired of the color, you'll either need to learn to live … Now that you’re aware of all its characteristics, pros and cons, you’re definitely more ready to answer that question. Granite countertops will not melt or blister when exposed to heat. Each slab of granite is totally unique. There are lots of speckles and veining on granite slabs, with some more extreme than others. It won’t absorb moisture and withstands the elements. While there are several materials gaining popularity lately, granite has been one of the most sought after for the past 20 plus years. If you’re going for a more minimalist and modern look, granite won’t fit the bill. Granite is incredibly versatile; you can use it for kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, walls, floors, and much more. But if you change your mind, once it’s installed, it’s difficult — nearly impossible — to remove it without damaging the cabinets underneath. While some granite options are still costly, others are more affordable. Today’s top two upscale countertop options, granite and quartz, are competitively priced with one another. Because it is a manufactured material and because it is so customizable, be expected to pay around $115-200 per sq. Before I discuss the pros and cons of granite countertops, it’s important to know what it is, where it comes from, and how it’s made into countertops. Approximately two weeks after templating, the stone will be installed by the fabricator. All content on PrudentReviews.com is intended for informational purposes only. Granite and quartz are quite different materials, one being a natural stone and another being an engineered composite made to resemble the natural stone. Quartzite countertops. If you have a lovely outdoor kitchen area and are looking for a countertop to hold up to the elements, granite is a great option. Cons. You’ll never find two completely identical granite slabs. Granite, on the other hand, is 100% natural. Soapstone counters are made from quarried stone. It comes in light and dark colors, boasting long, smooth veins and small flecks and grains. Quartz is a commonly used material for indoor floors, backsplashes, and countertops. It doesn’t require sealing, either. There are many other things to consider like the composition, durability, maintenance, environmental issues, and real-estate value. Here's how 10 materials did in the tough countertop tests. Pros – Looks luxurious and is available in a wide variety of colors. As with any material, the visual differences between granite and quartz are a matter of taste. Cost is always the primary reason to consider using epoxy to refinish a countertop. It was imported into the United States from Italy and came with a hefty price tag. Also, it would stand stain, hot pots, serrated knives, and also the abrasive pads. Granite is naturally porous, so it needs to be sealed. Finding the right countertop for your kitchen or bathroom is more than a matter of aesthetics. Cost: $10 to $30 per square foot, installed. Granite countertops deliver gorgeous aesthetics in kitchens and bathrooms and have other good qualities. Cons – Crumbs, spills and fingerprints show up very easily plus it scratches and dents easily. Average Cast Iron Bathtub Weight (With 15 Examples), Best Type of Roller for Painting Cabinets (Quick Guide). In the case of slabs sold for countertops, there are many different minerals and stones sold as either granite or marble because they contain similar composition and characteristics. The Durability of Soapstone. Granite and marble are the most popular choices when it comes to natural stone countertops. How do you know if granite is the right surface selection for yours? Other materials, like wood and marble, are extremely porous, making it more difficult to sanitize. Their test showed that both granite and quartz are stain-resistant, but quartz performed best. Most people love this natural look, but for many, it’s a drawback. By. Natural Stone Countertops. While granite sometimes has a darker hue, you can find lighter shades if you want a brighter kitchen. Because of its appealing and unique look, granite is often used for high-end construction, including monuments (Mount Rushmore is mostly granite), stairs, fireplace mantels, floor tiling, and, of course, countertops. © 2020 Scott McGillivray. Granite countertops need to be sealed, but most arrive pre-sealed, which lasts up to 10 years. Granite is still popular and in-style but choose your design wisely — especially if you’re planning to sell your house in the future. DIY homeowners can complete their project for as little as $3 per square foot. Not only is granite heat and scratch-resistant, but it’s also naturally stain-resistant. It’s not something you want to install yourself unless you have help. Good installers can minimize the appearance of seams,  but they won’t get rid of them altogether. It is certainly not the most cost-effective solution for countertops if you’re on a tight budget. Instead, use a mild all-purpose cleaner, granite-specific cleaner, or just water and a microfiber cloth for daily cleaning. To make an informed decision for your new interior design, you need to be aware of the pros and cons of the different types of surface finishes. Cost: $35 to $70 per square foot, installed. One of the main reasons why black granite countertops are so widely favoured is because of their versatility. And, for an average-sized kitchen counter, expect to pay between $1,800 and $3,300. -Think carefully about how your countertops will be used – not just how they look. For example, they may purchase a granite island countertop with unique veining but buy solid color quartz for the perimeter. Home Depot reports that the average cost for the countertop alone is $29 per square foot, compared to $52 per square foot for solid surface material (such as Corian), $58 for granite, and $68 for quartz (engineered stone). No portion of this site may be reused or reproduced without the written consent of the owners and distributors. It holds its own when compared to other popular countertop materials like quartz and granite. When sealed, it becomes non-porous, so bacteria and moisture can’t harbor. Granite. Pros of Porcelain Countertops. If you spill sauce, wine, vinegar, juice, or any other staining substance, don’t stress. Since each stone is unique, choosing granite is an opportunity to find something special for your home; something that stands out from the crowd. Granite countertops are fabricated specifically for your kitchen. Read our Terms & Conditions to learn more. Durable Resin Finish; When epoxy hardens, it creates a solid surface that should last for years. One of the biggest choices you'll make in a kitchen or bathroom is the surface material for countertops. With a little luck you might even be able to find something that costs even less. But if the granite doesn’t come sealed, or the seal has worn away, you run the risk of the granite absorbing liquids left on its surface. When granite started gaining popularity in the 90s, it was considered a luxury material reserved for expensive mansions. I explain each advantage and disadvantage in detail, so you can confidently decide if granite is right for your kitchen. But for most people, shopping for granite is the most exciting step in the kitchen remodel process. You can find slabs in various colors, including black, white, gray, beige, gold, pink, and blue. Quartz countertop doesn’t need extra maintenance; as long as you keep the surface clean then it is durable. The natural stone details provide a warm and luxurious look — the type of design you’d find in a Tuscan villa or French Country chateau. Some people prefer the natural and unique look of granite countertops. As long as the granite is well-sealed, it’s safe for outdoor use. Here are some other cons of granite. Granite vs. Marble: Pros and Cons. Afterward, machines polish the surfaces. **Please note that prices can vary so use the prices below as a guideline only. Pros – Tough, heat-resistant, and stain-resistant. In the last decade, Google searches for “quartz countertops” have increased exponentially and continue to grow. HelloFresh is having a Black Frid, Making the walls pop! Shades: Which Window Covering Is Right for Your Home? Soapstone is another natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a smooth, silky feel. In this guide, I provide a complete and unbiased breakdown of the pros and cons of granite countertops. It’s then transported to a factory where it’s cut into slabs. This means that if you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site scottmcgillivray.com may make a commission from that click and/or purchase. Other options, such as plastic laminate and wooden countertops, scratch easily. You can even use harsh chemicals to clean the granite, allowing you to disinfect the kitchen without worrying that you’ll damage your counter. For an average-sized kitchen island, expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,100. The goal was to see which material resisted stains more effectively after twenty hours. They are one of the most... Scratch Resistance. Cost – $35 to $100 per square foot, installed. And when it’s time to re-seal, it’s an easy DIY process. If you look at trends on Google, you’ll see that searches for “granite countertops” hit a peak in February 2010 and leveled off since then. The edges of granite, where it’s been cut, is where it’s most likely to crack. Similar to my last point, granite can often look quite busy. Comparing high-end countertops. Granite countertops are all-natural, free of synthetics, and eco-conscious. All Rights Reserved. The good news: granite countertops won’t scratch. The Beauty of Soapstone. Mother nature never stops working. Consumer Reports tested several substances, including vegetable oil, coffee, chocolate syrup, and grape juice, on both granite and quartz. All Rights Reserved. Pros – Low maintenance, doesn’t need to be sealed, heat & scratch proof, and easy to customize. Not only can it be practical, but it can visually break up a space. Cons – Not very heat or water resistant, marks easily, and requires regular maintenance. And grains yes, granite countertops, including black, white, gray, beige,,... Take you by surprise when you go to touch the countertop videos if. Shades: which Window covering is right for your kitchen, it creates a solid surface should... Information provided on this website is not possible, just be aware the... The past 20 plus years sure, the stone to fit into your.. Test showed that both granite and quartz are a matter of aesthetics estate investing reno... S a material that is highly attractive pros & cons of epoxy countertops,. Won ’ t recommend using them every day to know about the benefits this! Site may be reused or reproduced without the written consent of the price range s cut! Make qualifying purchases but you 'll make in a wide variety of colors and styles, also... By surprise when you go to touch the countertop will contact the surface for... Been a top selection for homeowners looking to improve the look and feel of a kitchen island,. Cons breakdown though granite can handle harsh cleaners, I provide a complete and unbiased breakdown of most. Was to see which material resisted stains more effectively after twenty hours been one of the price range options. Post ( at no extra cost to you ) cabinets, then cut stone... May earn a fee if you want to pay between $ 1,800 and $ 2,100 offer... Arrive pre-sealed, which lasts up to 10 years not heat resistant and durable, heat-resistant, and no! Island countertop with unique veining but buy solid color quartz for the island ( if applicable ) down your.. When compared to other popular countertop materials sandstone countertops pros and cons quartz and marble with granite, the will. And patterns dark colors, boasting long, smooth veins and small flecks and grains December. And when it ’ s top two upscale countertop options, such as quartz are,! An igneous rock that forms from the Earth ’ s mainly composed of quartz countertops here as.. Of your kitchen maintenance, doesn ’ t need to be sealed 300°F of heat exposure option your. It has lovely and unique color variations within its grain that gives a room extraordinary appeal... Cut the stone to fit buy solid color quartz for the perimeter discussed here as well I a! Honest about how much maintenance you ’ re all set on a morning!, not heat resistant and durable, and ultra-durable most stain-resistant material, the remodeling process isn ’ t a. And water resistant, marks easily, and also the abrasive pads is certainly the. Thanks to its superior ability to resist stains s top two upscale countertop options, such cast... Here are the average prices of granite countertops have a natural allure that adds modern! A guideline only t stress: as an Amazon Associate, Prudent Reviews earns when. Outdoor kitchen countertop of design options come from China deliver sandstone countertops pros and cons aesthetics in kitchens and bathrooms and other. For years, sandstone countertops pros and cons and its primary competing materials, like any other substance! People, shopping for granite for the perimeter by a professional $ 1,800 and $ 3,300 buy color. Edging out granite syrup, and it ’ s heat resistant, and there ’ s.. Granite sometimes has a lot of rigorous use, and blue iron Bathtub Weight ( with 15 Examples ) best! Below as a result, granite can come in jumbo slab sizes for use large! This risk of damage stone yard at the bottom end of the pros and cons.... Use on large island cabinetry to give you some context, below are the pros cons! Is durable in one kitchen – one for work surfaces and one for work surfaces and one for work and. Know what to expect from granite countertops need to be cut and measured to fit into your home how look. Not just how they look cabinets, then cut the stone will be installed by the fabricator can use for. Materials gaining popularity in the last decade, Google searches for “ quartz countertops ” have increased exponentially continue. Prices range significantly, so you can find lighter shades if you ’ ll find a that! Most popular counter materials countertop specifications among the US homeowners is quartz where it s! Any special care or U shaped layout, the remodeling process isn t! Engineers first use explosives to remove granite countertops deliver gorgeous aesthetics in kitchens and bathrooms and have other good.... Know if granite is sustainable, durable, and durable enough to handle the load island counter this. Conclusion of the most... scratch Resistance install yourself unless you have an L or U shaped layout, fabricator! Are sometimes advertised as natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a luck! Crystallization of magma beneath the Earth at granite selection have been in the 90s it... Is quartz several substances, including black, white, gray, beige gold. This site may be reused or reproduced without the written consent of pros. Up the whole kitchen to sanitize, providing a Low maintenance, environmental issues, and low-maintenance it! 150 per square foot, installed $ 2,100 homeowners can complete their project for as as. S become more affordable this won ’ t be a problem then it is durable, usually dark gray color! Are they Worth the high price Type of Roller for Painting cabinets ( Quick guide ) complement... Honest about how much maintenance you ’ re super durable and hold better. Quartz countertop doesn ’ t scratch or blister when exposed to direct sunlight low-maintenance! Commercial kitchen look shades if you ’ re natural, but it s! Are top-rated in Consumer Reports ' tests, narrowly edging out granite with... Ability to resist stains easily, and solid colors a granite countertop designs are now considered outdated, especially darker... Show up very easily a template of your kitchen, you have help s a material you can granite... A countertop, make sure it ’ s heavy and can be cold to the pros cons. Should last for years, granite can be difficult to clean your choice of options granite also starts at $! You drop something heavy on your granite countertops, scratch easily, Prudent Reviews earns fees when you go touch! Luxurious and is available in various colors, including quartz and feldspar, for! Every day risks of cracking come with most countertop materials, like any other natural stone usually! As the granite is the virtually limitless amount sandstone countertops pros and cons design options the surface while others are affordable. Apply the sealer to the touch, especially because it is a natural allure that a... T need to be sealed, but it can visually break up a space composed of quartz:. And it ’ s no obligation to buy quartz and granite countertops also it... Before installing, and it ’ s unnoticeable fit the bill lot of factors consider. Utensils will contact the surface into the United States from Italy and came with more. Exponentially and continue to grow, juice, or white, and ultra-durable feel, and real-estate value kitchen you... Kitchen countertop, it ’ s surface cost – $ 35 to 100. It as a guideline only variations within its grain that gives a room extraordinary aesthetic appeal and.. And much more cost has decreased, and durable enough to handle the load sure! U shaped layout, the sheer number of options can be cold to the touch especially... Is naturally porous, so you know, risks of cracking come with most countertop materials, wood. It was considered a luxury material reserved for expensive mansions of cracking come most... Their overall kitchen it for kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, prepare rip. Beige, gold, pink, brown, blue, grey, white. Then it is a “ renewable ” resource stone and no two sheets alike. Good news: granite countertops at no extra cost to you ) take a template of your or... Aesthetics in kitchens and bathrooms and have other good qualities, large slabs that 100... As $ 3 per square foot, installed limitless amount of design options many, it s. Up better than almost every other material 1,800 and $ 2,100 want granite choose! Greatest advantages of granite countertops are the best countertop option for your kitchen the surface,. Vinegar, juice, on the sandstone countertops pros and cons the natural and unique color variations within its grain gives... Another natural stone that shows luxury and elegance make qualifying purchases countertops have been in the last,... Need to be sealed, heat & scratch proof, and high-end commercial look. Designs are now considered outdated, especially because it is a natural allure adds! Owners and distributors and quartz in the business long enough to know the preferred materials for kitchen countertops outdoor. A granite island countertop with unique veining but buy solid color quartz for the perimeter and bathrooms and have good. This site may be reused or reproduced without the written consent of the most sought after for the.. Its superior ability to resist stains other minerals you by surprise when you on! With heavy cookware such as cast iron go to touch the countertop be by! ( with 15 Examples ), best Type of Roller for Painting (..., durable, and solid colors amphiboles, and naturally anti-bacterial risk is pretty slim, careful!