Homeowner’S Guide: Granite Countertops For Kitchens

February 01, 2024

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Granite countertops are often considered the gold standard by kitchen designers and homeowners. MSI offers a stunning range of granite countertops that are highly sought after for their exceptional qualities. Granite, a natural stone countertop material, is renowned for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains, making it a top choice for kitchen upgrades.

Exceptional Benefits of Granite Countertops

everest-mist-2-Everest Mist Granite

Granite countertops offer many exceptional benefits, making them a top choice for homeowners and designers. These stunning surfaces are celebrated for their stain- and scratch-resistant properties, making them exceptionally robust and long-lasting.

Here's a closer look at why granite countertops are an outstanding choice for your kitchen:

  • Durability: Resists scratches and wear, maintaining beauty even with heavy use.
  • Stain Resistance: Non-porous surface repels stains, making cleanup effortless.
  • Low Maintenance: Almost maintenance-free, requiring only simple cleaning.
  • Valuable Investment: Enhances home value, often leading to higher resale prices.

When you choose granite for your kitchen countertops, you're selecting a surface renowned for its resilience and ease of care, and you're also making a valuable addition to your home that promises aesthetic appeal and a noteworthy return on investment.

Unparalleled Durability and Beauty

sunset-canyon-1-Sunset Canyon Granite

Granite, an igneous rock formed from molten materials, is primarily composed of quartz and feldspar, making it one of the toughest surfaces on Earth. Its remarkable hardness ensures outstanding durability. With a wide range of granite colors and patterns, each slab tells a unique geological story.

To fully appreciate its beauty and individuality, visiting an MSI showroom to select your granite piece is highly advised. This hands-on approach guarantees you precisely get what you desire and avoids surprises when installing your countertop. Handpick a durable and uniquely beautiful work of nature for your kitchen that will last for generations.

Exploring the Color Options

Granite countertop colors can be as simple or as on-trend as you'd like. There are so many patterns, colors, and mineral inclusions available that finding a shade of granite to complement your home’s unique look should be easy.

Granite countertops are available in various colors, from white and cream to deep gray and forest green. Patterns are speckled, dotted, veined, and more. Each piece has its own mineral makeup, meaning each countertop is a unique work of art.

Key Considerations for Granite Countertops

gray-mist-1-Gray Mist Granite

When choosing granite kitchen countertops, several key factors demand attention:

  • Thickness and Edge Options: Granite countertop thickness varies by product, with thicker slabs incurring higher costs. Various edge treatments are available, including straight, beveled, and rounded options.
  • Slabs: Granite slabs provide a seamless and robust appearance, often in 10-foot-long pieces. In long or L-shaped counters, curved or arched designs may require seams, though they can be inconspicuous if installed properly.
  • Finishes: Granite countertops offer three recommended finishes:
    • Polished: This smooth, reflective surface enhances color and texture and is the least porous finish, making it excellent for spills. However, it can accentuate imperfections and crumbs, making it a popular choice for its ease of cleaning.
    • Honed: A smooth finish without shine, honed granite reduces glare and conceals imperfections, though it may not vividly reveal the stone's color. The surface is slightly more porous.
    • Leather: Achieved by using diamond-tipped brushes, the leather finish imparts a textured look and feel akin to leather. It combines the low porosity of polished surfaces with the imperfection-masking qualities of honed finishes.

When selecting granite countertops, these essential considerations can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and practical needs. With careful consideration and attention to detail, your granite countertops will enhance the beauty of your space as a durable and functional centerpiece for years.

Maintaining the Beauty of Your Granite

agatha-black-1-Agatha Black Granite

Preserving the allure of your granite countertops is a straightforward task and yields enduring results. With minimal effort, these surfaces can maintain their elegance for years. For daily upkeep, wipe the countertop with a soft cloth and warm water to keep it looking pristine. Mild household cleansers are suitable for occasional deeper cleaning. However, it's essential to avoid substances like certain oils and acids, which can potentially cause staining. To ensure long-lasting resilience, consider resealing your natural granite surface annually. With these simple practices, your granite countertops will continue to shine and remain the centerpiece of your kitchen.

Choosing the Right Granite for Your Home

Selecting the perfect granite for your countertop is crucial in achieving your desired kitchen aesthetic. When making this decision, consider the overall color palette of your kitchen and the style you wish to convey. Whether you opt for classic white or a dramatic dark hue, granite's natural variations will offer a unique touch to your space. Visit one of our nationwide showrooms or authorized dealers  to view our product assortment so you can pinpoint the ideal granite shade to harmonize with your cabinetry. It's also advisable to obtain samples for a visual comparison in your kitchen, ensuring your chosen granite complements the surrounding elements. This thoughtful selection process guarantees your granite countertop enhances your kitchen’s beauty and reflects your style and taste.

Ready to elevate your kitchen with exquisite granite countertops? Connect with MSI now through online chat on our website, visit a nearby MSI showroom to see our stunning options in person, or contact a local authorized MSI retailer. Let us help you turn your kitchen dreams into reality.

READ MORE ABOUT GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

6 Modern Granite Countertops to Elevate Your Kitchen
Designing Your Kitchen with Bold Black Granite Countertops
Create The Perfect Outdoor Kitchen with Granite Countertops
Introducing 4 New Granite Kitchen Countertop Colors