Granite Countertops - Unbeatable Toughness
Quality and durability of Granite
Granite is the hardest natural surface you can install for your kitchen countertops. Second only to diamonds in terms of hardness, granite is an increasingly popular natural surface for countertops because of its unbeatable toughness. Most granite is also impossible to scratch. Granite slab used to be seen as more of a high-end product for wealthy people, but today more and more average people are installing it in their kitchens.
One of the main advantages of granite is its extreme heat resistance, meaning you can place hot frying pans and pots directly on the countertop without fear of damaging it. One of the main disadvantages of granite as a countertop material is that it is naturally porous so it can be permanently stained if certain acidic or oily substances are spilled on it.
Being a natural material, you might expect there to be a very limited range of colors available for granite countertops. However, this is not the case. Since granite is quarried from many locations around the world – from Brazil to Texas to Sri Lanka – the variation in colors from quarry site to quarry site is impressive. From jet black, to deep green and rich red, the choice of colors is impressive. Also, each granite countertop will have its own unique pattern of colors unlike any other, with speckles, splotches and stripes that you will appreciate for years to come.
Taking Care of your Kitchen: Cleaning Granite Countertops
Cleaning granite countertops is usually a simple matter of wiping the surface down with warm water and a soft cloth. But, if you choose to use a cleaning product on your granite countertop make sure it is a neutral (pH balanced) solution, as acidic cleaning products can abrade the polish from the surface. Manufacturers also suggest a once yearly application of non-yellowing wax to ensure your granite retains its original luster and shine.