Granite Countertops Installation Creates an Ideal Family Kitchen

Is Granite the Right Choice for Your Countertop?

 
Congratulations! You've decided to give your kitchen a makeover with new appliances and professional granite countertops installation. Your plan is to re-invent the room as a place for your family to congregate, prepare food, and share good times. Knowing that it will become the place where your family will actually spend the most time together, you want everything to be inviting, cheerful – and functional. You've heard friends shower praise on granite for its wonderful qualities as kitchen flooring and countertops.
 
Granite is an expensive stone and, though it has become popular for use in contemporary kitchens, you still need to take a step back and consider if it is the right stone for you. It is not the perfect stone for every kitchen, starting with the cost element. Granite is expensive and cannot be installed by a do-it-yourself-er. On the other hand, though its initial cost is high, it does add value to your home.
 
Some other considerations are:
  • How big is your kitchen? Dark granite will make it look smaller; light stone will open it up.
  • What colour are your cabinets? The counter should contrast with them, so if your cabinets are dark, consider light granite. One of the great advantages of granite is that it comes in a wide range of colours and hues.
  • How much natural light does your kitchen get? Granite's surface is a miracle of idiosyncrasies. It can sparkle, gleam and surprise. Good natural light is best for bringing that out.

The Perfect Backsplash

 
Granite also makes a terrific backsplash for your counter. Find a stone with an exciting or bold pattern. If the kitchen surfaces are smooth, contrast them with some rough surfaces. Stone also complements modern appliances. Granite comes in tiles of many colours, making it possible to have a unique and inviting design component to the backsplash.
 

Granite is Tough and Durable – But it Still Needs Care

 
Some stone tiles – and this includes granite that has been highly polished – can be slippery when wet. Depending on the location of the granite, it may be necessary to hone it – roughen it up a bit - before installation. Obviously this is most important in a situation where water can splash to the floor, as in a kitchen or bathroom, or entranceway from outdoors.
 
Natural stone can be stained by spilled liquids. Spills should be wiped up immediately with soap. Abrasive or ammonia-based cleaners can dull the floors lustre.
 
Because granite is porous, it must be sealed and periodically resealed. Most experts recommend an annual or biennial application. The good news about granite is that the variegation of its colour – containing as it does speckles and ribbons and a changing base colour, means that stains don't look that bad. However, there is always that "big spill” – and a professionally applied sealant is your best protection.Of couse, by having professional granite countertops installation, you will be well informed about the necessary maintenance to keep your countertops looking brand new!
 
On a more frequent basis, daily and weekly cleaning is recommended. Use a clean microfiber cloth. Warm water is best to wipe away any daily residue. Mild dish or hand soap can be used. A stone cleaner can be used once a week.