Are Granite Countertops Right for your San Antonio Kitchen?

Granite countertops have a lot of upsides. They’ll work in just about any kitchen and can provide you with decades of happy cooking if they’re properly maintained. Of course, your options for countertop materials are almost limitless, so it’s worth taking a look at the competition before making a decision. Every material has its own pros and cons, and when it comes to deciding what’s right for your San Antonio kitchen, you’re the one who knows best.

Granite is a naturally attractive material. With its natural mottling, you’ll be getting a one-of-a-kind appearance with each surface. The natural colors and patterns as well will create an attractive atmosphere in any kitchen. Granite will require sturdier cabinets to support its weight, and you’ll need to make sure its sealed every so-often to avoid staining. But no material is without a need for some maintenance. And granite is one of the more durable materials, easily withstanding heat, splashes, and knicks with a knife. So how do other materials stack up?

Solid Surfacing

Solid surfacing has a much more artificial look than than granite. Of course, not everyone’s looking for a natural appearance. And because solid surfacing lacks the pores of natural stone, it’s much easier to maintain. It’s also far less durable, though, than granite.

Tile

Tile countertops can look very attractive and come in a wide range of colors and designs. They’re also fairly inexpensive. Tile is fairly durable, and if a tile cracks or is otherwise damaged, it’s easy to replace. But it will create an uneven surface, which can become a source of frustration while you’re cooking. It’s easily stained, and moisture can be left in the crevices fairly easily, which can lead to bacteria growth.

Laminate

This is your cheapest option, so if you’re on a tight budget, there’s no argument. And laminate is low-maintenance, easy to clean, and lightweight–so you won’t need the same sturdy cabinets you would with granite. It’s not very easy to repair, though, and it’s not durable either. With sustained damage, you’ll see the layers begin to peel off.

Marble

Marble is the most elegant material there is. It’s a go-to for anyone creating a classic, sophisticated kitchen design. It’s very expensive though, and difficult to maintain as it’s easily stained. So marble is rarely used for an entire kitchen. And granite can easily be just as attractive.

Stainless Steel

If you’re looking to create a distinctive, modern looking kitchen, stainless steel is a great option. There’s a reason it’s so frequently used in restaurants and industrial kitchens: it’s extremely durable, stain resistant, can withstand heat, and leaves no room for bacteria. It will need to be frequently cleaned, though, and chemicals can easily affect the color. You’ll also notice that your dishware will make tons of noise on this surface, and you may see some dents. Plus, stainless steel is expensive. So it might be best that this is left in restaurants.

The Verdict:

Of course, no one knows your San Antonio kitchen better than you. And you only you can know how it’s going to be used. But granite countertops are the most well-rounded type there is. It’s the perfect blend of attractiveness and utility.