Thank you Shawn so much for the beautiful granite countertops that you have just installed in our home - they truly are the "finishing touch" to our kitchen renovation.
Benefits of Granite Countertops - Granite countertops are the countertop material of choice and they define elegance with any kitchen, bar or bath. The beauty of natural stone compliments virtually any kitchen, bath or bar countertop.
1. The natural beauty and luster of granite countertops come in a vast selection of shades, colors, and textures. Granite countertops come in so many different colors you’ll always have the ability to compliment your décor. Whether you are looking for a neutral color or something bright, your personal tastes can always be satisfied. Be sure to note however, that if your countertop will need more than one slab to complete, make sure they come from the same mine batch or color shades could be very different between slabs.
2. Granite is one of the most durable materials available, and is not subject to burning by hot pots or pans. Granite countertops are resistant to staining and discoloring when properly sealed. Sealing is easily done, and a properly sealed granite countertop will maintain it’s beautiful shiny luster for a lifetime.
3. Every slab of granite will have different features from the next including patterns, color textures, distribution and depth. Because of these features it can be complemented by cabinet hardware fixtures as well as cabinet finish or flooring. A special richness is added to your kitchen or bathroom, one that simply cannot be duplicated with other materials.
4. Although granite will add some expense to your kitchen or bathroom remodel project, there are few better investments in your homes value. Using granite for your kitchen or bathroom countertop will increase your home value, whether you're planning on selling your home soon or not. Home shoppers are more drawn to a home that has been recently remodeled and not in need of repair and more likely to pay more for the home. In most cases, a remodeled kitchen or bath could be the deciding factor in a buyer purchasing your home.
Whether using granite to enjoy yourself, or looking to increase the resale value of your home, there are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Consider the current decor of your home while choosing the pattern and color of your new granite countertops. Neutral colors are more flexible with any decor changes that may occur in the future.
2. Always make sure you personally choose the actual granite slab to be used in your kitchen or bathroom countertop. It’s worth the trip to the manufacturer since every slab is different, and sample chips may not match exactly what's available. As we stated before, if your countertop is big enough to require more than one granite slab, make sure the slabs are from the same quarry batch as they may vary in hue for the same granite type.
3. Never recycle fixtures such as the faucet or sink. With granite applications, an under mount sink looks best. An under mount sink can not be installed or replaced after the granite is in place. So purchase the best quality sink you can afford.
Granite is made up of quartz and feldspar, two of the hardest minerals found on Earth. Because granite is made from these two minerals, it offers outstanding durability for countertops. The resistance to scratching is largely dependent upon the hardness of the minerals that actually make up the stone. In most granite slabs, quartz and feldspar, account for about 90 % of the granite rock itself. Countertops made from granite are resistant to heat, scratching, staining and chips. In the unlikely event that your granite gets a scratch, stain or chip, it can be repaired by a local stone fabricator. Granite can be used for both indoor and outdoor use.
Thank you Shawn so much for the beautiful granite countertops that you have just installed in our home - they truly are the "finishing touch" to our kitchen renovation.