Many Americans have found granite kitchen countertops to be the ideal surface option for their kitchen countertops and islands. If you’re like many Americans, chances are you’re planning to remodel your kitchen in the near future, including replacing worn and outdated kitchen countertops. In years past, you were limited to painted, vinyl-coated, or synthetic options that would be susceptible to cracking, peeling, burning, and other stains.

Fortunately, today’s modern homeowner has the option of choosing to install granite kitchen countertops. Long used to enhance and beautify the exteriors of buildings, they have been done indoors with spectacular results. There are several benefits to choosing this natural stone countertop over the types available in the past and even now. These include:

– Granite countertops add a sophisticated and luxurious look to any kitchen. Available in many colors, each and every piece of granite used for countertops is unique and comes in a wide variety of veins, swirls, and crystal patterns. Unlike dyed synthetics, granite is a consistent color throughout the particular piece you choose. An added bonus is that sunlight often reflects off the tiny crystals within, resulting in minute changes in the appearance of the stone throughout the day, adding to the overall richness and to the kitchen environment.

– Granite kitchen countertops are easier to care for and more kid-friendly than other surfaces. They’re naturally more resistant to staining, scratching, hot items like hot skillets, griddles, deep fryers, and toaster ovens placed on granite countertops won’t create burns or leave carbon marks on them, and you can roll out dough and shop in them. Granite is easy to clean, and plain soap and warm water will do the job perfectly. Unlike other materials, granite is a sanitary countertop material as it does not promote the growth of bacteria by harboring the germ in the pores as synthetic or painted materials do.

– Unlike synthetic or painted surfaces, granite kitchen countertops with minor damage can be repaired without having to replace the entire piece. If another type of countertop is damaged, the homeowner may have to bear the additional expense of replacing the entire surface. In some cases, the DIYer can demand repairs without resorting to the help of a professional, providing results that look just as good.

However, they can be expensive. While they initially cost a bit more, granite kitchen countertops are incredibly affordable and more than make up for the initial cost in terms of durability, ease of use, and luxurious appearance. They also add value to your property, especially in terms of resale value. You may very well find that those granite countertops you’re enjoying five years from now may be a major selling point.

When it comes to countertop options, it’s easy to see why this natural stone choice is so popular with homeowners. By choosing it, you will enjoy the beautiful appearance, strength, durability, ease of maintenance and family attributes that only a granite kitchen countertop can offer.