Granite is one of the most popular and sought-after materials for use in homebuilding, primarily for floors and granite countertops. Naturally occurring in a variety of colors and patterns, granite countertops are preferred for use in the kitchen and bathroom where they provide an excellent aesthetic, while being both germ-resistant and hardy.

Formed naturally over millions of years from compressed molten rock under the Earth’s surface, granite is extremely hard and durable. On a global level, hundreds of different varieties of design are sold by countertop company owners, making it a sought-after choice.

Benefits of granite countertops

A countertop company owner told us that there are hundreds of positives of having granite countertops. They add value to your home. It’s a good choice from a sanitary point of view, as bacterial contamination is not a problem when using granite countertops. They are easy to clean, and all that is usually needed is warm water and mild detergent. Granite countertops usually last a very long time. Although there are materials which are harder and more durable than granite, for example, synthetic Quartz, other alternatives are much more expensive (synthetic Quartz can be twenty (20) to forty (40) percent more expensive than granite).

Moreover, a countertop installer near me gave his views that granite is practically unrivaled at taking heat, making it ideal for use in the kitchen, as a place where hot pans and utensils are regularly used. Granite countertops are also ideal because they do not blister, scratch or chip. A well-polished slab of granite looks great, and has a luminous, dimensional quality not found in marble, another alternative for use in kitchens.

However, the longevity may not be for all. If you are the sort of homeowner that prefers a quick change to the kitchen or bathroom finishing, granite may not be for you, as granite as a material is difficult to remove. Further, granite is more expensive than other options. The expense of installation is also worth considering, as handling granite utilizes specialist tools. Because granite is so heavy, it requires additional structural support within the supporting cabinet or drawers.

Kitchen countertop installation

As the popularity of granite countertops has increased (a ten-fold increase in the last decade), concerns have periodically been expressed in recent years about radiation from granite causing a health risk to homeowners. Granite may contain uranium, which is not only radioactive but releases radon gas as it decays. There have been reports of potentially hazardous countertops, particularly from more exotic locations like Brazil or Namibia.

It may be advisable, when shopping for countertops or granite slabs from countertop company owners, for you to take special care and ask dealers and experts about possible health hazards, and whether a particular batch of granite is safe for use in the home.

So, next time you search countertop installer Potomac MD, go ahead, but be mindful of the above facts.