Rabu, 24 Oktober 2012

Granite Countertops: To Be or Not to Be in Your Home

You have decided to remodel your kitchen. You have chosen the color scheme, decided on the flooring, chosen the cabinets and their hardware, perhaps even picked out the dishes; however, the vote is still out on the type of countertop to use. After all, there are so many choices and the price ranges are rather extreme.
Nevertheless, after some deliberation,white kitchen cabinets photos you have finally narrowed it down to granite only to have someone ask you, "Are you sure that's what you want?" If that question gave you pause, then take a few minutes to think about these advantages and disadvantages of having granite countertops.
Advantages:
  • Granite countertops add as much as 15% to the resale value of your house, and they do not lower in value.

  • Because of the veining and depth of color, each slab of granite has its own unique look.

  • Granite is formed by heat; consequently, it can take the heat of having a pan placed directly on its surface.

  • Once granite is sealed, it is stain resistant. (Note, that's stain resistant, not stain proof!)

  • The color of your granite will not fade due to age.

  • Granite is sanitary (non-porous) so there is no fear of bacterial contamination.

  • Granite is easy to clean using just soap and warm water.
Disadvantages
  • Granite countertops need to be resealed at least every two years, or it will be more susceptible to stains.

  • Because granite last for years, you want to be sure to choose your granite with care.

  • While most people love the lack of uniformity in granite's appearance, if you are someone who likes consistency in design, then granite may not be the best choice for you.

  • Just because it is durable does not mean that you want to use the granite countertop as a cutting board or butcher's block, as the granite will actually dull knives and if hit too hard with a meat mallet or cleaver granite can be cracked, dented or chipped.

  • Granite can be expensive to install, but this is due more to the labor than because of the cost of the granite itself.

  • Should you ever decide to have the granite removed, it can cause damage to your cabinetry, so be certain that granite is your countertop of choice.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7302825