Why Granite Countertops are Popular
Granite has grown in popularity over the years in new home construction, and for kitchen and bathroom remodel projects. Just try to tour a few homes for sale and not hear the word ‘granite’ at least two times! The enduring integrity of this material appeals to all types of homeowners, including those looking to revamp their forever home, and those aiming to grab the attention of high bidders. Granite countertops are also prevalent in business settings, creating a professional tone to the space and a striking impression to customers. Read below to learn about the draw of this stone and how can its benefits apply to you!
Granite has an Ageless Style
Modern Americans are not the first group of people to realize the enduring beauty and versatility of granite. This natural stone has been utilized in architecture and design throughout human history. The Egyptian pyramids, the faces of American Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt on Mount Rushmore, and even the grand staircase in the Oklahoma State Capitol building is made of local granite!
Many iconic structures, monuments, and relics are made of a composite of materials, including granite. The Statue of Liberty is one example: the pedestal of Lady Liberty is made of concrete which is completely covered with granite blocks. Considering the pedestal is approximately 10 stories, that is a lot of granite!
Granite: Stone of the Rich and Famous
Celebrities and wealthy citizens are fond of granite too! Just ask their interior designers. When the rich and famous sell their homes, the public is able to get a glimpse of their lives behind the curtain. In the past few years, the actors below put their homes up for sale. The common denominator for these A-List real estate spots? Granite! Charlie Sheen’s abode has a custom granite kitchen with a muted color palette. Neil Patrick Harris chose black granite in his stainless steel kitchen, and Joe Manganiello, of Magic Mike fame, has earthy granite countertops.
Benefits of Choosing Granite Countertops
Many people are very happy with their choice to install granite in their kitchen, bathroom, outdoor entertainment spaces, and more! Again and again, clients of TNT Countertops note that granite is:
Affordable
Beautiful
Stain resistance
Easy to clean & maintain
Bacteria resistance
Unlike any other color and pattern
Durable
Heat absorbent
Do you know who also raves about granite? Real estate agents of TNT clients! This is because home values increase when granite is added. Consistent estimates for investment return from granite installation start at 25%, depending on the economy. Having a well-designed kitchen does not waver in value, however. Curbio’s 2022 Home Improvement Survey reports 68% of home shoppers say their most important first impression is of the kitchen. And, as Architectural Digest says, “Granite countertops are one of the most affordable and eye-catching updates you can make.”
Secrets for Selecting Granite
#1. Trust your gut. The first handful of granite pieces you like are probably the best selections. Most people like to look at all available options and that’s okay! It is always good to consider everything available. However, eventually, the selections will begin to blur together and making the best matches with your flooring, cabinets and kitchen décor will be more difficult.
#2. Slab thickness may rule out some options. Cabinets are the most common support for granite countertops. If the existing cabinets are unable to support a piece of granite which is three inches thick, then that slab or style is ruled out.
#3. Remember that the installed slab may not be as you saw it on display. Raw slabs are just that: raw. Once picked for installation, they will be cut and fabricated to fit the space in your home where they are needed.
#4. Picking a stone will not be the end of the decision-making process. Next, edge type such as beveled or raw will need to be chosen, as well as finish, like leather or polish. Keep this in mind when considering the options to avoid decision fatigue.
#5. Do not assume black stone surfaces will hide messes. Depending on the type of mess, it could be more visible on dark countertops than on light or white stone.
Granite Care Tips
Everything worth preserving needs attention now and then! Stone countertops are no exception. In order to maximize the famous durability and resistance of granite, certain practices are necessary. In a recent article, House Beautiful magazine shared five tips from kitchen designer Florence Perchuck, who has over 38-years of experience in the industry.
Always use a cutting board atop granite. This is because granite is stronger than most knives and contact will dull or damage the tool.
Wipe spills up immediately to prevent surface penetration.
Test the age of granite’s seal by dripping a small amount of water. A proper seal will result in water beads and droplets.
Become familiar with your specific stone, as each stone type requires different cleaning, maintenance, and sealing techniques.
Seal granite annually. This helps retain shine and strength for years to come! Need help remembering? Set up an annual appointment for service.
Other Ways to Feature Granite
If granite intrigues you but installing granite countertops in your home is not in the cards, there are alternative ways to incorporate granite. The timeless aspect of this material makes a big impact of elegance however it is displayed. Here are some examples of where else granite can make a home or business sophisticated. And yes, TNT does sell remnants!
Kitchen: Backsplashes, Islands, Charcuterie Boards
Living Room: Fireplace & Fireplace Mantle, Coasters
Dining Room: Tables, Accent Walls
Bathroom: Vanity Tops, Shelving
Half Bath: Flooring
Bedroom: Nightstand Tabletop
Front Yard: Flowerbed Liner, Paving Pieces
Porch & Backyard: Benches, Fire Ring, Serving Tray
Don’t forget office waiting rooms and coffee bars. Even a small piece of gorgeous granite can make a big effect.
At TNT Countertops, we take pride in delivering quality stone solutions to both homeowners and businesses. Our passion lies in the art of seamlessly integrating extraordinary pieces of stone into the very fabric of your design. Let us assist in creating masterpieces which not only become the focal point of a room but also spark conversation. Contact us today for a free quote or visit our showroom to imagine the possibilities!
