Are you considering a granite countertop for your home? You will want to know a few things before making a purchase. With many options and colors available on the market, it can be challenging to make the right decision for your home. With this guide, you can learn about the types of granite countertops available for your living spaces.

What Is Granite?

Granite is a natural stone, and it is a popular igneous rock for countertops. Over the centuries, it has been used in a variety of ways. Granite is prized for its durability. For that reason, many homeowners add granite to those heavily trafficked areas, such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Types of Granite

Granite stone is used to create floor tiles, countertops, paving stones, and building veneers. When granite is quarried from the ground, it is cut into a block or slab. Depending on the slab’s specific characteristics, these granite pieces are used for different purposes. Granite is great for those spaces that see heavy use. When the granite is polished, its beauty can boost the look of your kitchen or bathroom. These characteristics make granite a highly desirable stone for residential and commercial interiors.

A Variety of Colors

A granite’s color depends on its composition of rocks and minerals. Amphiboles, feldspar, potassium, and quartz give granite its unique patterns and colors. With the concentration of these materials in the stone, granite comes in various hues. For example, quartz in granite produces a milky white color. Dark black is the result of biotite. Amphibole provides a dark green or black shade. When these minerals are combined, you have several unique granite colors, such as pink, blue, or black.

Some of the most popular granite colors include:

• White: Moon White, Bianco Antico, and River White
• Black: Black Galaxy, Black Pearl, and Uba Tuba
• Brown: Baltic Brown, New Venetian Gold, and Tan Brown
• Gray: New Caledonia and Steel Gray

Different Edging Options for Granite Countertops

Along with color, there are several options for a granite countertop’s edge. The edge profile determines the shape of your countertop. You want to choose the right one that matches your home’s decor.

Straight Edge

If you are looking for a simple and clean countertop, you might want to choose a straight edge for your granite. These edges can easily blend within the kitchen, and they will not take attention away from your countertop.

Eased Edge

The eased edge of a granite countertop is the most popular choice. It is not sharp but also not too rounded. The 90-degree edge is slightly eased. This edge adds some thickness to the granite countertop. It is also easy to clean and doesn’t hold any kitchen spillages.

Beveled Edge

For those who want a modern and elegant look in the kitchen, you should choose this type of granite edge. The beveled edge has a 45-degree flat corner. Your granite fabricator can customize the width and angle of the bevel edge. These granite edges are also easy to clean and maintain.

Ogee Edge

For a classic-looking granite edge, this edge is excellent for traditional kitchen designs. The groove on the bottom is rounded. Ogee edges can have a simple line or a dramatic curve. Make a statement with this type of edge. With an ogee curve, it does take some effort to clean and maintain them.

Bullnose Edge

With its rounded edge, the bullnose is perfect for that sophisticated bath or kitchen decor. If you want your countertops to appear thinner, select this edge. The bullnose edge is easier to maintain than other types of granite countertops.

Waterfall Edge

If your home has a modern, contemporary design, then you might want to choose a waterfall edge. This type of edge has almost no edge at all. It looks like the granite is flowing over the counter. Along with that, this is one of the safest granite edges for your home.

Types of Granite Grades

There are different types of granite countertop grades. If you want to choose a high-quality product, then you need to understand the differences between these types of levels.

Level 1: This type of granite is known as an entry-level granite stone. It might also be called a commercial grade. This low-grade granite is cut thinner, and it is typically used for apartments. These granite countertops come in standard colors and designs.

Level 2: These granite countertops are imported from India or Brazil. Granite countertops from this level offer more unique colors than Level 1.

Level 3: Any granite countertop at Level 3 or above is considered a top-grade material. These countertops offer unique designs, rare colors, and patterns. If you want high-quality material, make sure to choose a granite countertop in this category.

The Cost of Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are more affordable than marble or quartzite. However, the final cost will depend on the size of your countertop. The average cost ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot. In some cases, there will be a charge for fabrication and installation. The pattern, color, and thickness of the slab also affect the price.

Maintenance and Care of a Granite Countertop

Granite countertops are easy to maintain. If you want to keep up its appearance, you need to seal it once a year. A sealant helps give your granite the best protection against spills and moisture. You can apply the sealer by yourself. However, you want to make sure to use a high-quality product and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

On a daily basis, you should clean your granite countertops with a soft cotton cloth and a pH-neutral liquid soap. You never want to use harsh cleaners or scrubbers. If your granite is sealed correctly, a light cleaning is all you need to maintain the look of your countertops.

Find Granite Companies Nearby

If you are ready to add a granite countertop to your home, reach out to the experts at Marble Concepts. We can help you find the right products for your kitchen, bathroom, and other areas. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 215-396-7393.