Granite countertops are an incredibly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels. According to Grandview Research, granite countertops make up almost 29% of the global countertop market share. But why choose granite? Granite countertops are known for their timeless, classic look and durability. Star Lumber, your local, Wichita building supply store, offers homeowners an in-depth look at granite countertops, making your remodel decisions easier.
What is Granite?
Granite is a natural stone that is formed in a variety of ways, leading to different styles, colors, durability and appearance. The most common types of granite include:
I-type: This type of granite is formed from cooled and crystallized magma. Color options range from light to dark gray, including shades of pink, red and black. Common I-type patterns include small salt-and-pepper speckles or veined and swirled lines of contrasting colors.
S-type: This type of granite comes from melted sedimentary rocks and typically has a lighter color ranging from white to gray and even reddish-pink. S-type granite showcases a variety of unique veins, sweeping swirls and contrasting colors.
A-type: This type of granite comes from molten rock deep within the Earth’s crust. A-type granite often has orange, pink or red hues arranged in uniform patterns with less contrasting colors and fewer veins. This type is also coarse, with rough, visible crystals of quartz, felspar and other minerals.
Benefits of Granite Countertops
Durability
Homeowners frequently choose granite countertops for kitchen remodels because granite is an incredibly durable natural stone, perfect for busy kitchens. The interlocking crystal structure allows granite to resist scratches, chips and heat. In fact, granite is so durable that only materials harder than granite, like diamonds and certain ceramics, can scratch its surface.
Longevity
Granite countertops can last for decades, making them a lifetime investment for many homeowners. According to Angi, with proper maintenance, granite countertops last up to 100 years. Natural stone countertops do a remarkable job of retaining their appearance over time with little to no maintenance. We highly recommend periodic care with mild dish soap and warm water to help maintain the finish of your granite countertop.
Uniqueness
The natural formation of granite ensures that every slab is one-of-a-kind. Many popular granite countertop styles have long, arching veins that splinter into speckles or swirls, creating patterns and textures that can’t be replicated. Granite slabs come in a range of colors that are almost impossible to capture in other natural stones. Some types of granite can have orangish red hues and others may have stark black with white, river-like veins. No matter your choice, granite provides a bathroom or kitchen countertop unlike any other.
Heat Resistance
Granite, unlike many other countertop materials, is resistant to heat. This makes it safe to place hot pans and pots on the countertop without scorching the surface. The heat resistance provides more areas for you to safely prepare food without the fear of damaging your countertops.
Increased Home Value
In the Wichita housing market, granite countertops can give your home’s resale value boost and make it more appealing to buyers. Based on a Houzz study on kitchen trends, 64% of homeowners prefer natural stone countertops, with granite being a top choice. This number illustrates home buyers’ desire for an extremely durable and elegant countertop material. Additionally, minor kitchen remodels, including countertop replacement, offers an 83% return on investment, according to the 2023 Cost vs. Value report.
Choosing the Right Granite
Granite countertops come in a huge variety of styles, depending on the type of granite, the color, veining pattern, finish and edge profile. Coordinating all of these factors with your bathroom or kitchen’s design creates a cohesive look, adding to your home’s atmosphere and increasing resale value. Star Lumber also offers free design consultations for homeowners looking for additional guidance.
Popular granite styles available at Star Lumber:
- New Caledonia
- Uba Tuba
- Santa Cecilia Light
- Blanco Leblon
- Blanco Perla
Caring for Granite Countertops
With granite countertops, you can skip the complicated cleaning routines. All granite requires is periodic cleaning with warm water and dish soap. As for long term care, regular sealing every 3-5 years will help prevent moisture damage and keep your granite looking great longer. If moisture or chemicals do happen to stain your granite countertop, we recommend using a baking soda and water paste. Let the mixture sit on the stain overnight and rinse with water and dry the next day.
Choosing Granite Countertops from Star Lumber
Granite countertops offer Wichita homeowners an exceptional blend of timeless beauty, durability and longevity. Not only is granite a practical choice, but it adds a touch of luxury to any kitchen or bathroom. Visit Star Lumber’s Wichita showroom and explore the different granite options available. Contact us today for a free consultation with our design professionals for expert guidance on selecting your new granite countertops.
