How to Choose Granite Countertops

A granite countertop adds a clean, modern feel to your kitchen or bath space.

Granite countertops are common choices for today's kitchen and bath remodels. They add beauty and style and are a sure way to increase a home's value. Beyond value and beauty, granite countertops are bacteria- and heat-resistant and require little maintenance. Choosing granite countertops is often one of the more enjoyable and creative experiences while remodeling a bathroom or kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Graph paper
• Writing utensil

Instructions

1. Measure countertop surfaces for the new granite. Your granite fabricator should take final measurements, but at this point, you will need to estimate how much granite you need for pricing purposes. Draw your kitchen or bath layout on graph paper and transfer measurements.

2. Find a granite supplier. Unfortunately, installing granite counters is not a good do-it-yourself project. That's why it's important to find a good supplier and fabricator. Find a granite warehouse that has a large variety of choices and experience in fabricating and installing granite.

3. Choose your granite. Your toughest decision will be deciding which granite color and patterns will work best with your design. It's a good idea to have all you other decorating choices made, like cabinet finishes and appliance colors. Granite comes in slabs, generally 5 feet by 9 feet. If your counters will need more granite than one slab can provide, you will have to look for a second slab to match. Don't forget to consider cost when deciding which pattern or color you like best.

4. Decide on the finish. Your next toughest decisions will be deciding on finishes, like thickness, edging, sink mount and surface finish. Thickness -- granite thickness is measured in centimeters, with the usual thickness 2 cm. A thicker, more substantial 3 cm is also available. Edging -- anything beyond the standard edging will cost you extra. Sink mount -- this is also the time to decide how sinks will be mounted, whether top-sink mount or under-mounted. Surface finish -- finish-polished, satin and honed are the most typical finishes, but others are available.

Tips & Warnings

• For smaller projects, check the granite warehouse for scraps. Often, you can find pieces big enough to cover kitchen islands and bathroom vanity. This can save you a lot of money on the total cost.

• Buying and installing granite tiles can also be a cost-effective, do-it-yourself alternative to granite slabs.

• There have been stories that granite countertops emit radon. The EPA believes granite is probably not major contributor of radiation and radon in the home. But if you have concerns, you granite retailer can provide testing.

References

• Home Remodeling Center of Memphis: How to Select Granite Countertops