Tips for Buying the Best Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are a beautiful, durable addition to any kitchen. The range of colors and patterns available mean you can create a look that matches your taste or home's décor. When shopping for granite countertops in Buffalo Grove, there are some important things to keep in mind. You can get great deals on granite for your kitchen remodel if you do your homework first. These steps will help you get great deals on granite for your kitchen remodel:

Decide on the size and shape
Inspect the slabs of granite
Consider whether you want
Check the professional seal
Be sure of warranty offered

1. Decide on the size and shape

Once you’ve decided on the style of granite countertop you want, it’s time to think about how big it should be. If you don’t have room for a large piece of granite in your kitchen or bathroom, consider using marble instead. The two materials are similar but the latter is less expensive and easier to find in smaller sizes.

If you do have enough space for a large slab of granite, measure the area where it will go so that no one bumps into it while walking around their house or opening kitchen cabinets and drawers below their sink or stovetop. You can also use these measurements as an opportunity to re-plumb your plumbing if necessary. If there isn't enough room under your sink because someone else's legs were too long.

2. Inspect the slabs of granite

When you're looking at granite countertops, it's important to have a good idea of what you want. If you're not sure which color or pattern will work best with your kitchen and the rest of your home, take some time to look closely at slabs in person. You can find granite showrooms in most major cities and even some smaller ones. When visiting one, don't just rely on the photos on their website. It's best to see how the colors look under different lighting conditions and with various finishes applied.

Go through all of their slabs carefully. Inspect them for defects like cracks or chips, which are more likely to occur when there is an uneven surface or an improperly cut edge that wasn't finished correctly before installation (if this is an issue). Also check whether they match well together aesthetically. If there are multiple colors present in one slab, do they blend well? Is there enough contrast between them so they don't look muddy together?

3. Consider whether you want

If you want to incorporate a backsplash in your granite countertop project, there are a couple of important factors to consider. A full height backsplash is great for kitchens that have an island or peninsula. It also works well in kitchens with tall ceilings, as it adds height and gives the space more visual interest.

The shorter backsplashes typically have no more than 3 inches of material behind the sink and stove top, so they’re best used in smaller spaces where they can be more easily incorporated into existing cabinetry or cabinets that are already installed. Backsplashes can be added later if you decide to change your mind about having one installed. Just keep this fact in mind when choosing materials and colors.

4. Check the professional seal

Granite countertops will be damaged if they're not sealed. Granite is already a very durable material, but it will scratch and stain easily if it's not properly cared for. Use a sealer to protect your granite from damage and to keep the color looking its best over time.

There are many different kinds of sealers available on the market, including those with low gloss finishes that can be applied by hand or machine. You should choose a finish that suits your tastes, as well as your budget.

5. Be sure of warranty offered

Be sure to ask about the warranty offered. The manufacturer’s warranty can tell you what kinds of problems they think are likely to occur, and it will be something you want to consider when making your decision. Look for at least a three-year warranty on all granite countertops and sinks. In addition, look for a lifetime guarantee against chipping, cracking and discoloration; these are issues that can happen with any solid surface material after years of use.

Conclusion

Now you know all about the different kinds of granite and what to look for when buying new granite countertops. If you’re thinking about renovating your kitchen, consider upgrading to a more luxurious surface like granite. It will be worth it.