10 reasons to swap out your laminate counter for granite

Kitchen countertops have come a long way since your grandma’s era. In , everyone had laminate countertops; they were the absolute rage in kitchens all over the U.S. When granite, one of the hardest natural stones on the earth was introduced, there was some speculation as to whether or not homeowners would like it.

It is more durable than Corian surfaces and it is scratch-resistant and heat-resistant, but in the 80’s when granite was first introduced it was available only in limited color selections and it was definitely on the expensive side in comparison to laminate. But the price didn’t hold consumers back – they immediately fell in love with it. In fact, the love for granite grew so quickly that within a single decade it became the standard material for kitchen countertops.

Over the years, granite countertops have evolved quite a bit. Selections are now available in a variety of patterns and colors. No two pieces are the same and that is very appealing to the average homeowner because it makes their kitchen unique. The best part is that granite is now more affordable. Here are 10 reasons you should choose swap out your laminate countertops for granite:

1. No seams: When granite is installed there are no visible seems like with laminate. Granite countertops give a flawless look to your kitchen counters, which really can improve the aesthetics of the room.

2. Durability: Granite is a rock formation that compresses together naturally. From deep in the earth it is harvested into slabs that are cut to form specific countertop shapes. Generally for most homeowners, granite is the last countertop they invest in because it will last a lifetime. Because it is so hard and durable; it is naturally resistant to chips, cracks, heat, and scratches. Granite is also very easy to keep clean, which is a major benefit for kitchen use.

3. Simple Maintenance: As long as your granite countertops are properly sealed after installation, you can depend on their longevity and durability, as well as their resistance to staining and bacteria. They will be virtually maintenance free! This won’t happen with laminate countertops. You can easily care for your granite countertops by cleaning them with a sponge, mild detergent, and warm water. Stay away from harsh cleaners or acidic foods, though, and be sure to wipe spills up quickly. Also avoid using bleach to ensure the sealant will last longer.

4. Improve Your Home’s Value: Granite’s ability to increase a home’s value is one of the biggest reasons homeowner’s select granite countertops. The amount of money invested into granite countertops can increase the home’s value by the same amount. In some cases, when looking at homes, prospective buyers may decide on a home with granite countertops over one that has laminate simply because they feel that granite has more long-term value that other surfaces.

5. Longevity: Even though granite countertops may be slightly more expensive than laminate countertops, the low maintenance and durability pushes them across the finish line well ahead of other materials. With laminate, it is likely that it has to be replaced several times over 20 or 30 years. With granite, you will likely never have to replace your countertops again. In many cases, granite will last twice as long as silestone or quartz, meaning that in the long run you will end up saving money.

6. Elegance and Beauty: Laminate countertops really can’t compare to granite when it comes to their unique beauty. If return on investment, durability, longevity, and low maintenance aren’t enough to convince you, then the elegant beauty of the stone will surely draw you in. There are so many different colors available, and each piece of granite is so unique than you can rest assured that no one else will have the same one as you, unlike laminates that are easily duplicated.

7. Granite can take the heat: Because granite is formed by pressure and heat, it is easily able to handle the heat from your pots or pans. Occasionally you can place hot pots or pans right on the countertop and it won’t cause any damage to the surface. Laminate countertops would not hold up to the heat like this, quickly becoming marred and ruined with repeated contact to hot cooking implements.

8. Useful: Granite is very versatile; you can even have a kitchen sink built right into the countertop for a completely seamless look. It can come in a single-basin style, dual option, or even a triple-basin. The depths can be varied based on what you are looking for, making your kitchen the workhorse you need it to be.

9. Achieve a modern look: The options for countertops are quite vast when it comes to granite. You can really achieve a top of the line modern look. This will help you match the overall look of your home if you are going for an up to date style, and can help anchor a design focal point for all of your other decorations in the room.

10.  Granite is a great fit for any style of home: Granite is an ideal choice in comparison to laminate because it offers a unique multi-hued palette. It remains beautiful day in and day out, unlike laminate that will show its wear over time. It is also a classic material that never goes out of style, ensuring that your home will maintain a classic look even as months and years pass by.

Many of the laminate products that are available on the market today do not have the history that follows granite. It doesn’t mean that laminate is bad, but when it comes to the choice in countertops you are better off choosing a material like granite that has a long lifespan and inherent beauty to match its incredible value.