Tough, durable and possessing a natural beauty, granite countertops can compliment any contemporary or more traditional style of kitchen.
Granite is a natural stone, and is therefore subject to natural variations, offering a truly unique appearance. Apart from the durability and natural look of granite, it remains cool in a way no other surface can, and is therefore of practical use in some cooking where ingredients are best kept cool, such as in baking.
Granite comes in a variety of colours from light greys and whites to darker shades, allowing it to be matched with any choice of flooring, décor and cabinets. Patterning is equally as varied, from almost plain to rich swirling patterns and speckling.
New granite countertops can be kept in the best condition by a little thought and care. For example by using cutting boards placed on the granite countertop for cutting and chopping. Careful placement of kitchen utensils and hot pans will help prolong the life and maintain the beauty of your granite surfaces.
When thinking about the choice between granite or marble work surfaces, it is worth considering the kind of look you wish to achieve, the costs, and maintenance. Just as with granite, care needs to be taken when using marble worktops in order to ensure it retains its natural beauty and is not damaged.
Marble is softer than granite; it is also more porous and therefore more prone to becoming stained and damaged.
Granite is formed from molten magma, and is therefore harder and less porous than marble. As it is harder, granite is less prone to being damaged or stained than marble is.