Granite Countertop Pros and Cons

The selection of granite countertops comes with pros and cons, like nearly every other consumer choice. Many people agree that polished granite carries with it a ‘wow factor'. But recent media stories have raised questions about granite as a health risk, so it is important to separate fact from fiction.

Is Granite a Health Risk?

Granite has not been shown to be a health risk. All natural rock has the potential to emit radiation, however, the EPA has not listed granite countertops as a significant source of radon in the home. It is radon in the air, not trapped in stone that has the potential to be a health hazard. The agency recommends that concerned homeowners use a radon test kit. Considering health factors that don't include radon, granite cleans easily and is resistant to bacterial contamination.

What About Value?

Architects value granite for its permanence. Interior designers value it for the color range. Homeowners like that it increases a home's value, and everyone who has ever wielded spray cleaner and a sponge can appreciate its ease of maintenance. Granite countertops should last the lifetime of the home and do not need to replaced after a few years like lower value countertops.

How Rugged Is It?

The degree of porosity in a granite countertop will depend upon how the original rock was formed, but a properly sealed granite countertop provides excellent stain resistance. Staining can be a problem on unsealed granite or when spills are allowed to remain on the surface over time. Granite is strong but brittle. This makes it highly resistant to normal wear and tear, but it can chip or crack under force. It resists heat from normal baking temperature well.

Special Considerations

Granite is a heavy substance that requires proper structural support. It cannot span large areas unaided and long runs of countertop will require seams. Installation labor is intensive and can be expensive as well. Sealants must be applied and maintained to preserve the aesthetic appearance of a countertop.

Cost Comparisons

Granite is a natural product and costs can vary widely with the source. Color choice, excavation costs, and transportation differences are unique to each quarry. As a rule, granite is cost-competitive with silestone and stainless steel. It costs about 10% more than man-made stone and is significantly higher than plastic laminates.

Granite Countertops, Granite Tools, Granite Slabs, Granite Information."Granite Countertop Care." http://www.georgiagraniteassociation.com/

Health Physics Society Professional Development School. "Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) and Technologically Enhanced NORM (TENORM)." www.marble-institute.com/

Granite Countertops / Counter Tops - Trans Atlantic Granites - Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth"Granite Countertop Benefitshttp://www.transatlanticgranites.com/

"Granite Countertop Pros and Cons." Sophisticated Edge. N.p., n.d. Web. . <http://www.sophisticatededge.com/granite-countertop-pros-and-cons.html>.

Quote: "The quality of granite is highly subjective. The "best" granite is the one that best suits the need of the buyer, both for aesthetic and practical reasons. However, it is often rated on its luster when polished, its surface porosity, and its mingling of colors. Nearly all examples are quite suitable for counters, floors, and walls. There are lower grades available, but few are sold by reputable suppliers. The quality of the finished product lies more in the workmanship of the fabricator than in the product itself."

Source: Granite Countertops and Surfaces Keidel.com

.The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. It is not meant to take the place of health care or services you may need. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your health.