Pros and Cons of Granite Countertops Tampa Homeowners Need to Know
Granite countertops have become increasingly attractive for homeowners in the Tampa area and beyond. As with all countertop materials, granite countertops come with their own unique sets of pros and cons. Here, we take a look at the pros and cons of granite countertops to see if they will work for your Tampa area home.
Pros of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are unique
Since granite countertops are made from natural substances, no two granite countertops are the completely alike. For a natural look that no one can replicate exactly, granite makes a great choice.
Granite countertops add value to your home
While midgrade granite is actually rather affordable, granite countertops are still viewed as a luxury item. This will make your kitchen look even more appealing, and will potentially raise your home’s property value should you decide to sell.
Granite countertops are durable
The natural stone properties of granite make it difficult (though not impossible) to chip or damage. With proper use and maintenance, a granite countertop can last a lifetime. Cutting and wear and tear are no match against granite. Just don’t try to abuse your countertop; heavy swings from a meat cleaver may still do some serious damage.
Granite countertops can withstand heat
No potholders are required with a granite countertop. These counters are able to take the heat from pots and pans with ease.
Since granite countertops are made from natural substances, no two granite countertops are the completely alike. For a natural look that no one can replicate exactly, granite makes a great choice.
Granite countertops add value to your home
While midgrade granite is actually rather affordable, granite countertops are still viewed as a luxury item. This will make your kitchen look even more appealing, and will potentially raise your home’s property value should you decide to sell.
Granite countertops are durable
The natural stone properties of granite make it difficult (though not impossible) to chip or damage. With proper use and maintenance, a granite countertop can last a lifetime. Cutting and wear and tear are no match against granite. Just don’t try to abuse your countertop; heavy swings from a meat cleaver may still do some serious damage.
Granite countertops can withstand heat
No potholders are required with a granite countertop. These counters are able to take the heat from pots and pans with ease.
Cons of Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are heavy
Due to their excessive weight, a granite countertop will require professional installation. Do not try to install a granite countertop yourself unless you have had experience doing so before. Additionally, these countertops need to be mounted on sturdy cabinet boxes that can withstand the weight.
Granite countertops are not uniform
Being natural rock, granite does not have a uniform appearance that is perfect on every part of the surface. It is entirely possible that a sample you would see in the store may differ slightly from the countertop you receive. The look may also differ along the surface of the countertop.
Granite countertops can be high maintenance
Granite is a porous material, and will require sealing before use. You will want to reapply sealant every 1-3 years that you on the countertop. Failing to regularly seal your countertop will cause it to become vulnerable to staining or harboring bacteria. Be sure to clean stains before resealing, lest that stain become a permanent part of your countertop.
Due to their excessive weight, a granite countertop will require professional installation. Do not try to install a granite countertop yourself unless you have had experience doing so before. Additionally, these countertops need to be mounted on sturdy cabinet boxes that can withstand the weight.
Granite countertops are not uniform
Being natural rock, granite does not have a uniform appearance that is perfect on every part of the surface. It is entirely possible that a sample you would see in the store may differ slightly from the countertop you receive. The look may also differ along the surface of the countertop.
Granite countertops can be high maintenance
Granite is a porous material, and will require sealing before use. You will want to reapply sealant every 1-3 years that you on the countertop. Failing to regularly seal your countertop will cause it to become vulnerable to staining or harboring bacteria. Be sure to clean stains before resealing, lest that stain become a permanent part of your countertop.