The Cons Of Granite Countertops
With the growing popularity of granite as the material of choice for countertops and worktops, it’s easy to think that it has no downside whatsoever. It’s extra tough, elegant, and so easy to maintain. However, despite all these advantages, the cost of granite can be very prohibitive, ranging from $60 to $150 or more per square foot. Many people would rather spend on appliances than on such an expensive countertop, and for good reason. In addition, you cannot just do a granite countertop installation yourself because of its sheer weight. Thus, even avid DIYers are forced to spend hundreds to install their dream countertops.
Drawbacks Or Limitations Of Granite Countertops Or Worktops:
Granite is not only the hardest material available for countertops; its also the most expensive, with prices starting at $60 a square foot. Though adding granite countertops to any kitchen can be quite costly, they remain the premiere choice in many new and remodeled homes. The beauty and warmth offer an aesthetic appeal that can’t be found in other countertop materials. Most home improvement stores sell granite countertops. Several online stores also sell granite countertops. Both retailers and online stores sometimes offer deals that will help cut the costs of your granite countertops.
Granite does cost more than other countertop materials, with the majority of the price coming from labor costs. Installing granite countertops is not a project for the do-it-yourself homeowner, seeking to save money on installation costs. Installation must be left to the professionals who have the right training and equipment. However, a homeowner can save money on some of the preliminary preparation and demolition work. Before the process of installing granite countertops can begin, range tops, the sink and the old countertops must be thoroughly removed. The remainder of the installation process must be left to the professionals.
From Where To Get Started:
After the granite countertops are ordered, an individual from the installation company will come to precisely measure the cabinetry and create templates for the installation. At the time the templates are created, the professional should be able to tell you where all the seams will be. At this time they will determine if any specialized tools will be required for the sink and range cutouts. Prior to the installation, metal rods and plywood will be added to the top of the cabinetry to create a strong, level surface with additional support for the sink and range. This is a critical step, as it prevents the granite slab from breaking during regular use. Success of a granite countertop installation includes attention to the varying thickness of a slab.
Granite countertops come in several different finishes. These can be polished or matte look. Tumbled looks have more rounded edges. The granite can be honed for a smoother look. A flamed granite countertop is torched to give a textured look. No two pieces of granite are alike so don’t be surprised if the granite countertops installed in your home are different from the samples you chose. Only if you ask the contractor to see the exact granite they will use for your kitchen or bathroom can you be assured of the look of your granite countertops. A contractor or other home improvement professional can explain any differences.
What Are The Drawbacks Of Granite Countertops?
Granite countertops can take almost any type of abuse heaped on them by busy housewives or careless children. Unlike laminate countertops, you can place a hot pot or pan directly on granite countertops and it wont damage them. You dont need a cutting board if you are chopping vegetables on a granite countertop since it is impossible for even the sharpest knife to penetrate the stone surface. Southern housewives love to roll out their biscuit dough right onto their granite countertops without having to worry about damage.
Cleaning granite countertops is simple. Mild detergent or soap will keep your granite countertops looking like new. You will want to avoid abrasive cleaners and those that are very acidic. Use a soft cleaning cloth on the granite countertops and avoid using scouring pads. Granite countertops are expensive. To cover a typical kitchen island, the price can range from $70 to $100 per square foot. To cut these costs, you may want to use granite countertops in an area that is more visible to visitors and use a cheaper form of laminate countertops in other areas. The fact that granite countertops need to be resealed each year adds to the cost. It is good idea to use a professional contractor to install and reseal the granite countertops. You don’t want to spend more money trying to repair damage because you tried to do it yourself.