Granite countertops remain a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, based on both looks and performance. Offering an infinite range of colors and patterns, the slabs feature natural markings that vary from piece to piece. This can pose challenges when you need multiple slabs for a large kitchen, which is why it is important to choose slabs in person so that you are not surprised by drastic variations.
Granite is Built to be Different
Granite, an igneous rock formed by the melting of continental rocks, is found in quarries and mountains throughout the world. Formed from the fire and heat that results from volcanic eruptions of the earth’s core that never reach the surface, the liquid rock in the earth hardens to become granite. The stone contains varying amounts of quartz, feldspar, and mica. Environmental factors where granite composition occurs bring the elements together to form colors, specks of additional color, or distinctive patterns.
Currently, much granite comes from India, China, Africa, and Brazil, but it is found anywhere, including the United States.
What these geological, geographical and environmental differences mean for granite countertops is that granite cut from different blocks of stone can vary widely. The stone is cut from the earth in blocks that may weigh around 40,000 pounds. They are cut into slabs at processing facilities, and slabs may be numbered to easily locate sequential slabs. Sequential slabs have the best chance of having the same color and basic pattern. No two pieces will look exactly alike, but they will be close enough to look harmonious.
What to Remember When Buying Granite Countertops
When you are buying a granite countertop, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Each stone has its own personality, which you may or may not like. Don’t like the color or pattern? Keep looking.
- If you pick a granite countertop with a distinctive pattern, there will be variation. If you want a consistent, clean look in your kitchen, look to something like quartz or other engineered materials, where either the color is solid or the pattern is reproduced on a machine.
- Granite is not the type of product to select and order online. Either you or a trusted contractor should go to the supplier’s showroom to make an in-person selection.
Work with the Best When Selecting Granite Countertops
When you want new countertops for your kitchen, work with a contractor who will let you see the slabs before cutting, or who you trust enough to make the selection. Mountain States Kitchen and Bath, specialists in beautiful granite countertops, will ensure that your counters and island have a beautiful, harmonious flow you will love.
