Most home remodeling projects involve the transformation of bathrooms and kitchens. And when it comes to bathroom and kitchen remodels, one thing that’s common to most projects is the replacement of the countertops and the sinks.
Granite countertops and sinks are excellent choices for both the kitchen and the bathroom. After all, if this material can take the hard beating in the kitchen, it can certainly stand the hardship in the bathroom. Both of these rooms are ab(used) on a daily basis. Just the high humidity in the bathroom and the hardness of the water in both rooms are enough to take their toll on the sink and countertop material chosen. And granite is one of these materials that won’t only take the beating but will also keep performing well and looking superb for years. Let’s take a look at more details so that you will be sure of your choice if you decide to go for granite countertops and sinks for your home remodel.
How much do you know about granite?
Without going into many details, let us just say that granite is a natural stone and the rock that’s formed under the earth’s crust takes years to slowly crystalize. And so, the material is particularly strong and distinguished for its crystal patterns – specks or veins.
As a natural stone, granite is unique. And while that’s a good thing, it’s often hard to find two similar slabs to form a big countertop. Like nearly all natural stones, granite is porous, too. It’s gorgeous, heavy, and needs regular maintenance. Basically, the main disadvantage of granite is that it must be sealed to resist stains and scratching. Also, it’s one of the most expensive materials available.
How about considering getting composite granite?
Overall, composite granite has the advantages of the natural stone, minus the disadvantages. And so, it’s worth considering for your home renovation.
Composite granite is nearly 95% natural stone and the rest is resin. This means that granite sinks and countertops are extremely durable and the color options broader. With composite granite, you don’t have to get slabs with veins or specks, but also solid colors – black, for example. Since the slabs are engineered, they are highly resistant to scratching, acids, stains, water spots, and chipping. Of course, it’s much cheaper.
What both the natural stone and composite granite share is their heavyweight and resistance to heat. While granite is stronger, the resins of the composite slabs make it a bit softer although still very durable. But if you drop a glass on the composite granite sink, it will not necessarily break.
(Composite) granite countertop and sink for the kitchen
With all the chopping, cooking, dropping, and commotion that’s going on in kitchens, granite sinks and countertops are exactly what you need. Although the appearance of the natural stone is intense due to the specks, it is beautiful and goes well with all kitchen designs. For a sleeker and crispier look, you can go for composite granite and thus, a consistent color, like graphite, black, or white.
(Composite) granite sinks and countertops for the bathroom
If this material (composite or not) can stand the hardship in the kitchen, it can certainly hold well in the bathroom. You just need to remember that if you prefer to get the natural stone, you need to keep it sealed so that it won’t absorb water – and other liquids.
The truth is that most products available on the market – at least when we talk about kitchen and bathroom sinks – are made of composite granite. That’s because it’s easier to make. It’s also because natural granite is very expensive and not always available. All the same, composite or not, granite is a choice you won’t regret. But you need to take into consideration their drawbacks, stick with the manufacturer’s instructions as per their maintenance, and you’ll see. You’ll enjoy them for years.