5 Questions to Contemplate if Considering Granite Countertops

One of the biggest trends today in the world of kitchen design is the use of Minnetonka granite countertops. After all, they can be purchased in nearly every color, have an abundance of edges to choose from so they will completely match your style and they add value to your home. But, just because they are popular and beautiful, does this mean that they are the best choice for you? Before signing on the dotted line of the fabricator’s contract, take a few minutes to consider these questions.

1. How do I use my kitchen? If you spend a lot of time entertaining but not necessarily cooking, then you may wish to choose granite tiles or modular granite as these are less pricey, but are still granite with all its benefits beauty, variety, durability, easy maintenance. However, if you love to cook and thus spend a fair amount of time in the kitchen, you will want to choose slab granite countertops since it has fewer seams and can be cut to fit the exact dimensions of your counter space.
2. What type of sink do you plan to use? While granite countertops can have any type of sink installed, it is recommended that one choose an undermount sink as this makes it easier to clean up around the sink. It should be noted, that when an undermount sink is installed properly (ask a professional!) then there is no fear of leaking or the sink separating from the granite. Top mounted sinks, by nature of design, will cause a seam between the sink and the granite, making cleaning more difficult.
3. Are granite countertops a good choice in home with small children? Sure, granite countertops can be used in a home with small children. However, special care should be given in choosing the type of edge, as some edges are sharper, while others are more easily chipped. In a home with young children, it is best to choose granite countertop edges in the bullnose style.
4. I want to lower the cost of granite countertops. Can I do the installation myself? Unless you are a professional granite fabricator, this is not recommended. A fabricator has the tools and knowledge of years of experience to ensure that your slab, modular or tile granite countertops look beautiful.
5. What are the benefits of granite countertops? Aside from the aesthetics of granite countertops, other advantages of granite countertops include: durability, they can withstand heat, is stain resistant once it has been sealed, bacteria contamination is not a problem and it is easy to clean.
6. Granite countertops are one of the most versatile and practical kitchen surfaces on the market today. 

Here at Granite and Flooring Unlimited in Minnetonka, we are happy to help you decide which granite will work best for your needs. Our fabricators are knowledgeable and would love to help you design the kitchen of your dreams. Contact us today.

Ensure Your Granite Countertops Remain in Top Shape

Granite counters are naturally strong and durable, but there are a number of things you can do to make sure they retain their look and luster. You’ll need to maintain your granite countertops to ensure its beauty and a long life, and experts recommend the following: 

Clean Up Spills Stat

While they are stain resistant, granite counters can fall victim to liquids with a high level of acidity. Orange juice, soda and alcohol can damage your counters if not immediately cleaned up. If something does spill, take a cloth or paper towel to soak up the spill, and follow up this with a damp rag. 

Avoid Large Weights on the Edges

You don’t want to damage your counters, and one of the best ways granite counter pros say you can prevent damage is to not putting any unnecessary added or extra weight on the edges. The added weight can cause extra pressure and damage, which may take away from its attractiveness.

Use a Sealant

Once they’ve been installed, it’s recommended you apply a sealant to the counters. This will add an extra layer of defense to the counters, and while it doesn’t mean you’ll be protected from stains, you’ll have a little extra time to clean up a spill before they become stained.

Contact Granite & Flooring Unlimited today for all your St Paul granite countertops needs.

Can Granite Countertops Be Damaged?

One of the bigger selling points of granite countertops are their durability. They're resistant to a number of different things, like scratches, heat, and most stains. This begs the question: can a granite countertop be damaged at all?

There are some instances where a granite countertop can be harmed. Cracking the surface is possible should your counter experience a high-impact blow from another object. It can also chip should such an impact occur. Another instance is staining -- your granite countertop can stain if it is unsealed, and if the wrong type of liquid or material is left on top of it for extended period of time.

Another question potential granite countertop buyers have is, "Can I cut on my countertop?" It seems that many homeowners use their granite tops as cutting boards, due to the surface's ability to resist scratches. While your countertop will not be harmed necessarily, we don't recommend doing this as it will cause damage to your knives. You'll be replacing your knives quite frequently if you cut on your counter.

Learn more about how St Paul granite countertops can add to your home. Call Granite & Flooring Unlimited today at (952) 457-6257.

Granite Countertops are Low Maintenance

There are many different reasons one should consider adding granite countertops to their home, but one of the most attractive reasons is how low maintenance these types of countertop surfaces can be. Granite counters are resistant to a number of different elements, including scratches, stains, and heat. They're durable and tough to damage, and are quite easy to clean up, too -- all you need is some water or granite cleaner, and a soft, white cloth.

Of course, you can also seal your granite countertop and further protected it from certain liquids that will stain if left on it for an extended period of time. The seal application process doesn't take very long, though, and compared to the upkeep other types of countertop surfaces require, you'll still end up saving a lot of time and labor by owning granite. When well taken care of, granite counters can stay in good shape for decades, and make your home more attractive to potential buyers. It all starts with the ease of caring for such a counter; it's a feature not many other surfaces have.

Ready to install brand new St Paul granite countertops in your own home? Call us today at (952) 457-6257.