An updated kitchen can make or break a sale when you put your property up on the market. In fact, 58% of homebuyers say that the kitchen’s style is very important to them. The easiest route you can take to making your kitchen more modern is to remodel your countertops. Check out these four things to keep in mind when choosing a granite countertop.
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Why Granite?
These countertops are cost-efficient, durable, and naturally heat resistant. It is the perfect stone if you enjoy baking because you can place hot pots and pans directly on the countertop straight out of the oven. It is also naturally resistant to bacteria, so you will not have to worry about bacterial contamination in your kitchen. Many homeowners also enjoy the fact that granite does not depreciate in value. This means that even if you sell your home 10 years after redoing your countertops, the added value of your countertops will be reflected in the price of your home.
How to Choose a Granite Style
This stone comes in a variety of colors and can be paired with just about any kitchen aesthetic. With so many options, it can be difficult to choose which one will best match your kitchen. Here are the three most popular styles for kitchen countertops:
Ubatuba:
This darker style is perfect in kitchens that have white cabinets or deep wood-style flooring. Ubatuba comes in a variety of stones, but the contrast it can give your kitchen will make your countertop pop. It can also be used to give your kitchen an earthy or sleek appearance, depending on the shade you choose.
Giallo Ornamental:
This creamy stone can be used to make your kitchen appear bigger and clean. The subtle veining throughout the stone also gives the space a warm ambience.
Kashmir White:
This salt and pepper colored stone will instantly upgrade your kitchen’s style. It is also a versatile stone, so it pairs well with most colors.
Countertop Edge
In addition to color, there are a variety of edge styles you can choose from. These include:
Ogee:
This is the most traditional countertop edge style, and is cut in the shape of a “S.”
Waterfall:
A waterfall edge is a three layer cut that looks similar to steps entering a pool.
Chiseled:
This seemingly imperfect cut is designed to look rustic, and to give the impression that the stone was taken straight out of the earth and put directly in your kitchen.
Bullnose:
This rounded edge looks smooth and polished, and can be more comfortable to touch or lean on.
Countertop Maintenance
Just like everything else in your kitchen, you will need to clean and maintain your countertops. As previously mentioned, this type of stone is extremely easy to clean and keep free of bacteria. In most cases, you will not need anything more than a warm rag a mild soap. You should never use cleaning solutions with a high alcohol content, as this can dull the finish. It is also recommended that you reseal the slab about every five years.
Final Thoughts
Granite countertops provide a versatile option to elevate your kitchen, and will ultimately improve the value of your home. The stone comes in a variety of colors and designs, is easy to clean and maintain, and can even be cut in a variety of styles to give your kitchen a unique look. Contact a kitchen design store today to pick out a slab that fits with your current kitchen aesthetic.
