Granite is one of the most popular stones used in kitchen renovations, and due to its popularity, the question of why granite is used in kitchens has become a common one. The long-lasting popularity of granite countertops, backsplashes, walls, and flooring has stood the test of time, proving to be more than just a passing trend.
There are many reasons why granite is used in kitchen renovations, its durability, beauty, heat resistance, longevity, and versatility to name just a few. Understanding these reasons will help you make informed decisions about your kitchen renovation and decide if granite is the right choice for you.
Durability and Strength
The long-lasting and resistant durability of granite is one of the main reasons why granite is used in kitchen renovations so commonly. It is an igneous rock that is formed under intense pressure and heat, making it resistant to extreme conditions.
It has a score between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it one of the strongest stones used in home improvement projects. This hardness makes it an ideal option for kitchens because it can resist scratching and chipping and withstand daily wear and tear that occurs in busy kitchen environments without an issue.
The structural integrity of granite makes the stone inherently ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. The countertops should be strong enough to be able to support heavy appliances without sagging or warping over time. You can place heavy kitchen appliances or heavy cookware without damage. The strength of granite ensures it can maintain its functionality for years to come.
Heat Resistance
Heat resistance is another one of the most important factors to consider before deciding on which stone to pick for your kitchen countertops. Properly sealed granite kitchen countertops can withstand very high temperatures. As granite is created in the crust of the Earth under immense heat it is very resistant to it without taking damage.
This means that the stone won’t be affected by hot pots and pans placed directly on the surface without the risk of scorch marks on the stone. This is an especially important benefit for a busy kitchen in which multiple dishes are being prepared simultaneously, such as professional kitchens, because it eliminates the need for using trivets of hot pads, making the cooking process faster and more efficient.
Both professional chefs and home cooks can appreciate the benefits of granite kitchen countertops. While heat resistance is a benefit shared by many natural stones like marble and quartzite, granite is less likely to experience thermal shock when it comes into contact with heat, making its resistance even more impressive.
Aesthetic
The natural beauty and unique patterns of granite countertops make them the darling of kitchen renovations. Although durability is the most important thing when it comes to practical things like kitchen countertops, its appearance also plays a huge role.
As it is a natural stone, the minerals that are mixed into it during its creation can differ from region to region, meaning granite slabs wil have different patterns and colors depending on where they are quarried. Moreover, each granite slab has a unique combination of those minerals, making each slab and each countertop one-of-a-kind.
Granite has a wide range of color options. The most common choices are in the white, cream, light gray color family. These colors suit every design aesthetic and complement the space seamlessly. However, granite slabs with bolder and brighter colors like blue, green, red, pink, and more can also be found to express your personality and style.
Versatility
Granite is a very versatile stone that can be used in a wide variety of ways. Although countertops are undoubtedly the most common use, their functionality extends to other areas of the kitchen.
Granite can also be used for kitchen islands. Opting for the same granite type for both the countertops and the island top will create a sleek and cohesive look. On the other hand, you can pick contrasting colors to create dimension and visual interest in the space.
Granite is commonly used for backsplashes as well. Similar to the kitchen island, you can opt for a similar-looking slab for a harmonious look. You can also play around with different tile shapes and patterns for the backsplashes. Choosing the same or a similar color, but changing the pattern of the tiles will create subtle variation and movement in the space.
Maintenance
Maintenance is one of the most influential factors to consider before deciding which stone is the right choice for you. With the fast-paced lives we all lead, the last thing anyone needs is countertops that need constant care, attention, and time.
While granite requires regular sealing to protect its luster and keep it safe from bacteria, its daily maintenance and cleaning are straightforward. Granite shines even brighter in this aspect when it is compared to other natural stone options. Natural stone has a tendency to be more fussy, however, granite is the exception.
If your granite kitchen countertops are properly sealed, even in the case of spills of highly staining substances like coffee, wine, or oils, they will be able to resist stains or discoloration. Granite typically needs to be resealed once every year to once every two years. The time in between resealing treatments depends on how often the countertops are used and how many staining agents they are exposed to.
Health and Safety
Health and safety become an especially important subject when it comes to kitchen countertops. As this is a space that is in constant contact with food and food-related items, the surface of the countertops should be hygienic.
Granite is resistant to bacteria and other microorganisms when it is properly sealed. The sealant creates a barrier between the stone itself and the outside elements, ensuring they don’t get to seep into the stone to cause bacterial growth. Therefore, granite is a hygienic choice for kitchen countertops.
As the food particles or liquid spills won’t seep into the stone, any bacteria, dirt, or debris will be locked outside the sealant, meaning wiping the countertops regularly and thoroughly using a clean, soft cloth will ensure that granite is ready to be used in food preparation.
Resale Value
The resale value of homes upgraded with granite countertops deserves attention. Granite countertops offer a lot of long-term value, even beyond their beauty and functionality. As a premium material, the initial cost of granite countertops might be higher than alternatives like laminate which is known for being a budget-friendly option. However, it should be noted that granite additions raise the property value and they are a huge deciding factor for anyone in the market looking for a home.
The high investment value of granite holds strong in both residential and commercial real estate markets. Analysts provide the insight that granite kitchen additions, especially granite kitchen countertops have a great return on investment if the owner ever decides to resell the home.
If the owner never puts the property up for resale, the longevity and durability of the granite additions will prove themselves to be a worthy investment in other ways. As the countertops stand the test of time, they won’t need as frequent replacement. If taken care of properly, granite can last a lifetime.
In conclusion, granite is one of the most popular and sought-after stones used in kitchen renovations. The reasons why granite is used in kitchens are countless, it is incredibly durable, versatile, long-lasting, and beautiful.
On a deeper level, understanding why granite is used in kitchen environments helps homeowners make the best-informed decision about their home, their kitchen needs, and their expectations from the stone. Whether you prioritize durability, aesthetic appeal, longevity, or resale value, granite has great advantages that will satisfy you. The versatile benefits of granite not only make it a compelling and desirable option, but it also makes the stone highly functional and practical.
The combination of durability, visual allure, and functionality that granite offers explains its popularity clearly. Moreover, its unique patterns ensure each slab brings a distinct character to the space it is installed.
