3 Things You Need To Know About Granite Countertops

If you are remodeling your kitchen, decisions about your countertops may be some of the most important decisions you make during the entire project. Countertops need to be able to withstand cutting and other activities, but they also need to be resistant to staining and visually attractive. Granite countertops can be a great choice, but you need to be aware of some things first. Here are some things you need to know about these stone countertops.

All Slabs are Different

Once you've decided on granite, you need to know that there are different classes of stone due to differences in color and quality. If you want consistent color and no visual defects, you'll want to choose a first grade slab, for instance. There will be minor imperfections in second grade slabs, and commercial grade slabs are usually less expensive, but may need to be refinished because of inconsistent coloring and imperfections.

Because not all slabs look the same, it is important that you are able to see the exact slab that will be ultimately go in your kitchen. Avoid choosing granite based on samples that may not match what arrives at your house.

Once your countertops are installed and sealed, you might think there's nothing left to do, but make plans to have them resealed every so often. That way, they can continue to be in great condition.

There are Differences Between Hand-Cut and Machine-Cut Slabs

You may not know this, but there are some companies that only use CNC machines to cut their granite. Machine-cut slabs have straighter lines, but the edges may remain rough when delivered to your home.

Other companies still have employees who cut the slabs by hand. Hand-cut slabs might have lines that aren't as precise as those cut by machines, but hand-cut pieces are generally waxed and sanded so that the edges are smoother.

Ask your contractor whether you will be getting machine-cut or hand-cut slabs of granite so you can get a better idea of what your granite will look like when it gets to your house.

You Will Need Sealer

Granite countertops are beautiful, and over time you will want them to remain that way. Because granite is porous, it may soak up liquids that can cause permanent stains unless you have your countertops sealed. Many contractors will seal them for you after they install them, but in an effort to charge you lower rates, some contractors will not. Therefore, it is critical that you know who will be responsible for sealing.

Use the information in this article to help you make the right decisions when buying granite countertops. Work with your contractor to make sure that everything goes smoothly and you get the countertops you want. Look online for more information, such as at almagranite.biz.


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