Why is Granite So Great for Home Surfaces?
Granite Surfaces — An Investment Worth Protecting for Your Home
For years, granite has been many homeowners' #1 choice for a practical, yet-gorgeous kitchen; in fact, The Spruce went so far as to say that this versatile stone "defines elegance in a kitchen." Besides elegance, does granite bring more to your countertops, backsplashes and other home surfaces? As it turns out, yes, it does. Granite adds value to your home.
If you're interested in reselling your home at any point, take notice: Granite tends to attract interested buyers, and it may even make your home more competitive (and potentially more lucrative) on the market. Even if you're not planning on moving anytime soon, know that adding granite to your home is an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Why is granite such a hot commodity?
For starters, it's durable. Granite is one of the harder, more dense stones, which means that (as long as it's sealed properly) your granite countertops should resist against stains and etches. Also, because of its durability, there’s less risk of scuffs, chips and cracks. Your bathroom vanities, kitchen countertops and floors in your home tend to see a lot of activity, so choosing a material that can take the traffic well is an excellent idea.
Granite is eco-friendly
Granite is one of the most abundant stones on Earth — and it doesn't have to be manufactured; instead, it's quarried and cut. While quarrying itself does have an environmental impact due to the energy use of the involved machines, the rest of the processing steps for granite are relatively sustainable. Also, installing a granite surface in your home will likely be a permanent decision. This reduces turnover of materials, energy expenditures associated with installation and more. The lovely natural patterns that gleam through polished granite also allow homes to look more natural and eco-chic — certainly, an added benefit.
Granite helps keep your home free of dirt and bacteria
If granite is sealed well, it will give the homeowner additional time to clean up spills, not allowing liquids to seep into the pores of the stone (Remember, the stone itself is porous, which makes consistent sealing a must.) This nearly impervious treatment means your stone is protected against stains, etches and soil buildup. You'll be able to clean your surfaces effectively, making your kitchen-prep steps much more sanitary.
Granite surfaces are easy to care for — as long as you do it properly.
Granite maintenance requires only a few products, but they have to be the right ones. Avoid using regular soap and water or DIY solutions such as vinegar, ammonia or lemon juice; these will all be too strong for your granite. Instead, pick up a cleaner that's specifically engineered for stone care. Granite Gold Daily Cleaner® will lift spills and prevent stains on your stone surfaces easily, as long as you use it according to manufacturer instructions. Select an easy-use stone sealant and a polish to help your granite gleam, and you'll be set for a low-maintenance cleaning routine that keeps your stone healthy for years to come. Stone surfaces can be versatile, durable and gorgeous — but they're also porous and require practical, consistent care.
If you need a low-maintenance stone-cleaning routine that will help you coax shine out of your granite surfaces, you're in luck. Our Stone Care Experts have three generations of stone-care expertise at the ready to make your cleaning routine easy. Call our friendly team today at 1-800-475-7866 to learn more about what our premium products can do for you and your granite surfaces.