There are many reasons why people choose a granite worktop. It is a practical choice, that is heat resistant and incredibly durable. If properly installed it should last a lifetime. And that’s without even mentioning how elegant and beautiful it makes your home look. 100% natural, there are many different colours and designs to choose from. So with all these qualities, why do many people have reservations about using granite? One answer – misinformation. We live in an age of online information, and not all of that is true. This guide will help to dispel some of the common myths surrounding granite and let you know why choosing granite is one of the best choices you’ll ever make.
Of all the myths surrounding granite, it’s easy to see why this one makes myth number 1 on the list. As with everything in life, there are cheaper options, such as a laminate worktop. But there is a reason why you’re choosing granite. It will outlive any cheaper worktop you’re considering, so it won’t need replacing. It is an investment, so you might have to pay more upfront, but you will recoup the investment down the line. With no need to replace it, this worktop will outlast all others and increase the value of your home at the same time.
This is another common myth we hear all the time. People assume that granite will stain or crack easily and thus needs more regular care. The reality is that it’s incredibly difficult to crack a granite worktop. It’s a harder material than marble and one of the most durable natural surfaces. It resists heat and therefore can withstand hot pots and pans that would damage other surfaces. And there’s no reason to think it will stain easily, you can wipe it down with soap and water. But it does take a little more than that if you want it to always look its best, hence myth number 3.
Yes, while granite is one of the most durable natural surfaces, nothing is indestructible. The fact that it is heat resistant and difficult to stain does not mean you shouldn’t take a little care. Otherwise, you could cause imperfections and damage it. To take the best care, you should seal your granite worktop. But even then, if you place a hot pot on the surface, you might damage the sealer, and it can develop a cloudy appearance if the heat damage is severe. And while it is difficult to do, you can stain granite with abrasive chemicals or scouring pads. And yes, hard knocks can cause cracks or chipping.
Another common misconception is that granite loses its shine. Over time it may indeed dull, but you can easily restore the shine with polish. And you don’t need to re-seal it every year. It depends on the porosity of the stone how often, but it’s not as often as you might think. Which also leads to myth 5.
Many people wrongly assume this because of the natural surface. Just stop and think of how many top-end hotels and restaurants use granite for their work surfaces. There is a reason that health and safety experts recommend granite as a worktop material. It is a safe and clean choice.
The best way to understand why granite is so popular is to talk to experts. Shaw Stone has been providing expert advice to homeowners since 2002. They are a family-run business, and as such, word of mouth is their greatest asset. That’s why so many people look to them for expert advice before choosing a worktop. Yes, there are cheaper materials you can opt for, but granite can far outlive any of them. So don’t believe the common myths and seek out an expert opinion first. And you will understand that granite is a long-term investment that increases the value of your home.