Granite is, without a doubt, one of the most aesthetic and practical types of stone for bathroom and kitchen countertops. It is durable, solid, chemical-resistant, and lasts for as long as 15 years if properly cared for. Despite all its amazing properties, you will encounter several myths while considering installing it. Some of them are just blatantly wrong and confuse potential buyers in Denver.
Many of our Denver granite countertop customers have shared horrible stories with us, not knowing that most of what they hear is far away from the truth. In this blog, we shall be exposing these myths so that you can be certain of the facts about granite countertops while making a purchase decision.
Myth #1: Quartz has Replaced Granite
There was a time when granite was the stone of choice for bathrooms and kitchens. But as it became more accessible, granite countertops became more common. Many Denver residents have now opted for granite countertops as compared to other materials, and that has led to a new discussion – the declining value of granite. When anything is available in abundance, it tends to decline in value. This is exactly what Denver residents are thinking about granite countertops and are moving towards quartz and man-made products.
However, that doesn’t mean that granite is out of style. It is a classic material that is here to stay. However, it is important to consider that both quartz and granite serve their own unique purposes. For example, granite is all-natural, formed under heat, and can sustain high temperatures. Quartz, on the other hand, isn’t resistant to heat and chemicals as much as granite is. Both are in style, and it all depends on what Denver customer prefers for their kitchens.
Myth #2: There Is No Difference Between Granite and Marble
There’s no denying that both are natural stones, but they aren’t the same because the properties of granite differ from marble. Marble is a hard limestone available in a myriad of colors. Granite is a rock having a granular appearance. It is harder, stronger, and less porous than marble. Moreover, marble is more economical than granite but requires extra care and maintenance. Because it’s porous, it can easily develop cracks and stains if proper care isn’t taken.
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Myth #3: Granite is Expensive
Granite is indeed an expensive natural stone compared to marble. However, its high price tag can be justified. It is far more durable and is resistant to heat and chemicals. Moreover, the average pricing of granite countertops is more or less in line with that of quartz.
You get what you pay for.
For a 30 sq. ft. installation of Denver quartz countertops, it will cost roughly $1,800. Add in 22% for labor costs, which comes to around $360. Now factor in remaining installation costs and sink cutout costs, and it will set you back roughly $3,760.
Granite countertops cost in the range of $40 to $75 per sq. ft. One high-graded granite slab can cost as much as $500 per foot. If we factor in all other costs per the preceding example, the granite countertop will cost roughly $3,500.
It is also important to note that unlike other natural types of stone, granite isn’t hard to find as it is in an abundant supply. As a result of this, the cost per square foot has been steadily declining.
Myth #4: Granite Countertops are High Maintenance
Granite countertops in Denver require sealant once only when they are installed. Then, for the rest of their life, no maintenance is required since granite is resistant to chemicals, heat, and stains. The only care you need is to use a damp cloth to wipe off dust and stains. Regardless of what your countertops are made of, you will still need to take care of them.
Myth #5: Granite is Not Safe for Food Preparation
Granite is one of the safest countertop materials that you can use for cooking and food preparation. This is because it is resistant to chemicals and heat. It is also hygienic and easily cleaned. It is natural that granite countertops, when installed in the kitchen, will often come in contact with food, but none of that would destroy its appeal and beauty. To increase its life, it is always good to use a cutting board instead of using the countertop for all your cutting needs.
Myth #6: Granite Countertops Emit Radon Gas
This is certainly the biggest misconception about granite countertops. Radon is a toxic gas that all-natural substances emit, and that includes granite and the air in your surroundings. But the amount of radon that granite emits is negligible and will not damage your health. Your chances of developing health problems are more likely due to air pollution than the sparkling countertops installed in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Don’t pay attention to everything you see or hear about granite. Come and talk to the experts at Colorado Granite, and we’ll guide you thoroughly on the wide variety of granite countertops for kitchens.