Natural stone countertops, including marble, granite, and soapstone, are always a popular option. While many new homes in and around Minneapolis, MN, are built with natural stone countertops, owners of older homes can always upgrade during a kitchen or bathroom renovation.
Choosing granite countertops has advantages that are worth considering. Granite is a harder stone than marble, which means it is more resistant to chipping and damage. This is important in both the kitchen and the bathroom and certainly adds to the appeal of granite.
Color and Pattern Variety
One factor that leads people to choose granite countertops over marble is the greater variety of colors and patterns available in granite. In addition, while both are naturally occurring, the minerals and conditions under which granite forms tend to provide more dramatic visual appeal and aesthetics to this natural stone.
There is a range of earthy colors with veins, marbling, striations, or more random patterning. Some colors are vibrant, including golds, oranges, blues, and the dramatic onyx-patterned granite.
Easy Maintenance
An important consideration with granite countertops is keeping the surface sealed. This typically needs to be done about every two years, but this varies based on frequency and type of use. Sealing is an easy do-it-yourself process, or a natural stone countertop company can complete the process as required.
Cleaning granite is also simple for MN homeowners. Cleaning with soap and water is typically all that is needed, with special natural stone cleaners available for hard-to-clean stains.
