A granite countertop is a costly investment but most
of the homeowners are ready to make this investment owing to the benefits
exclusively associated with the stone (i.e. granite) - strength, durability,
visual appeal and low maintenance. For many, a home remodeling project is
incomplete without granite worktops. However, property owners are often found
committing the following mistakes repeatedly while buying a granite worktop.
Mistakes
while buying granite worktop
Are you aware of the fact that all granite worktops
are not created equal? There are major variations in colors, textures and
patterns. However, there are many who are not aware of the fact that the most
vibrant of colors are the most porous of them all.
Being
too fussy about thickness
Realistically the granite slabs are available in two
major variations (thickness) – the 1 ¼” cut or the ¾” slab. Anything thicker than that implies
two slabs glued together. If you end up settling for the same, do be prepared
for a number of maintenance problems.
Going
horribly wrong with colors and quality
We are talking about polar opposites here. You are
either too fussy about the color of the worktop- so much so, that you even end up
undermining quality or you are ready to settle for the sample piece itself
without even checking out other colors.
We have already indicated how flamboyant colors rule
the roost as far as personal favorites are concerned. However, the darker
countertops are a wiser investment owing to their non-porous nature. Additionally,
they can absorb spills and liquids better than their more flamboyant
counterparts as well.
Not
resorting to professional help
DIY installation is a great thing but not always. If
you aren’t a professional worktop installer you should not ideally deal with
the high traffic areas of your house including kitchens and bathrooms. Your
kitchen countertops, for instance, are exposed to substantial use. Any
installation mistake can even end up injuring your family members. Instead,
rope in a professional to get the work done. Find out the maintenance needs of
the worktops from the professionals. And as far DIY is concerned, if you’re
interested in rendering that personal touch to your home you can always try out
some lighter woodwork or a garden patio.
Not
planning way ahead
Please remember that whenever you’re embarking on a
remodeling project you are supposed to attain the right balance between your
budget and the things that you want for your home. For instance, you would
definitely want sufficient counter space for your sink, refrigerator and other
kitchen appliances. Consult a contractor to be better guided regarding the
placement of the countertops and ways in which you can bolster the resale value
of your home in future.
So, all this definitely takes time. You need to
consider the aforementioned factors at first and then go on to choose the
countertop. So don’t commit the mistake of not planning everything way ahead.
Are you going to install new worktops soon? If yes,
then make sure you’re not repeating these mistakes.
