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Renovating your kitchen? Choosing the right material for your benchtops can feel confusing and difficult. You might wonder; should you go for something scratch-resistant? Are you looking for a particular colour to match your design? Or perhaps an environmentally friendly option? Among the wide range of choices, granite benchtops stand out as one of the most popular options.
Granite benchtops offer a timeless, stylish look while being incredibly durable and practical. To help you decide, we’ve gathered key information about why you should pick granite for your next benchtop. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of granite benchtops to help you make an informed decision for your kitchen or bathroom. If you have further questions or want to discuss your project, call Master Tops at (08) 6161 1969 today.
Let’s explore why granite is the perfect choice for your kitchen benchtops.
What is Granite?
Granite is a natural, coarse-grained rock formed under immense heat and pressure. Known for its hardness and durability, granite is a popular choice for benchtops due to its unique patterns and colours. Each granite slab is one-of-a-kind. These perks make it a sought-after material for kitchen benchtops in Perth and beyond.
Pros and Cons of Granite Benchtops
Like anything, granite benchtops come with their advantages and disadvantages. We've highlighted a few key points to help you make an informed decision. But honestly, we could talk about granite for hours.
Pros of Granite Benchtops
✔ Durability and Versatility
Granite is tough, like, really tough. This natural stone can handle the daily hustle of a busy kitchen very easily. It’s resistant to scratches and stains, make it a dream for both families and home chefs. While it’s strong enough to chop and dice directly on, it’s not knife-friendly, so keep that cutting board handy to save your blades.
✔ Unique, Timeless Aesthetics
Granite is like a fingerprint. Every slab of granite is unique. With its intricate patterns and a rainbow of colours to choose from. You’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your style. And its natural look makes it a timeless option that never gets out of trend.
✔ Hygienic and Naturally Moisture-Resistant
Granite is naturally resistant to moisture, which helps keep bacteria away. With proper sealing, you’ll have a hygienic surface that’s perfect for food prep and easy to clean with just soap and water.
✔ Scratch and Heat Resistance
If you need a benchtop that can handle life’s little accidents, granite has you covered. It resists scratches and can literally take the heat. Placing hot pans or pots on the surface won’t damage it. But using trivets is always a smart idea to prevent thermal expansion issues.
✔ Large Slab Options
Working with a spacious kitchen? Granite’s large slab sizes are ideal for creating seamless island benchtops. They can measure up to 3400x2000mm. This is especially useful when compared to smaller slabs of quartz stone that requires more joins.
✔ Longevity That Pays Off
Granite is built to last, literally for decades. Other materials may need replacing or refinishing over time. But granite maintains its beauty and durability with minimal upkeep. This longevity makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
✔ Low-Maintenance and Easy Care
Taking care of granite is simple. Clean it regularly with mild soap and water to keep it looking pristine.
For extra shine and protection, a professional granite cleaner like Granite and Stone Cleaner and sealer like Guardsman Stone Care Seal & Protect can help protect against stains, especially for lighter-coloured slabs.
✔ Boosts Property Value
Granite benchtops are a premium feature in any home. Their high-end appeal can attract potential buyers and even increase your property’s resale value. So, investing in granite doesn’t only enhance your kitchen, it adds long-term value to your home.
Granite benchtops are beautiful, but there are a few things to consider before choosing them for your kitchen. Let’s go through them next.
Cons of Granite Benchtops
✘ Limited Colour Range
Granite is a natural stone. So, its colours and patterns are unique and can’t be customised like quartz. If you're after solid white granite benchtops or any specific colours, you might find it tricky to get exactly what you want. But there's still a great variety of colours and patterns to choose from.
✘ Professional Installation Needed
Granite isn’t a DIY-friendly material. It requires expert installation by a stonemason to ensure it's done right. Unlike laminate, granite needs precise cutting and handling. So, hiring a professional is important.
✘ Regular Sealing for Stain Protection
Although granite is stain-resistant, it’s still a bit porous and needs regular sealing to maintain its appearance. Depending on the type, you might need to reseal it every 1 to 3 years. The process is simple and affordable, costing around $40 for a seal.
✘ Heavy Weight
Granite is quite heavy, which means it needs proper support during installation. Most kitchens can handle it, but it’s best to confirm with your supplier or installer to ensure your cabinets can bear the weight.
✘ Cost
Granite can be more expensive than other materials. But it’s still more affordable than some luxury stones. If you want a granite benchtop with beautiful patterns, you’ll find options in the mid-price range. But it’s still a higher investment than alternatives like quartz stone.
Overall, granite is a stunning choice, but it’s important to weigh these factors before making your decision.
Are Granite Benchtops Worth the Investment?
The answer is a loud "yes!"
Granite benchtops in Perth offer exceptional value. They might come with a higher initial cost. But their durability, elegance, and long lifespan make them an excellent investment for your kitchen or bathroom. A granite stone benchtop can elevate your home’s design, improve functionality, and increase your property’s resale value. When maintained properly, granite remains a top choice for homeowners who want both beauty and practicality.
Ultimately, the benefits are clear: durability, aesthetics, and longevity. If you’re considering granite for your next renovation project, contact us today. We specialise in crafting high-quality granite benchtops according to your needs and preferences.
Call Master Tops at (08) 6161 1969 to explore your options for stone kitchen benchtops Perth today.