Are Granite Countertops Going Out Of Style?
January 18, 2021When it comes to interior design, the trends are always changing. If you're looking to renovate your kitchen, you may wonder: Will granite countertops look dated in ten years?
Granite is gorgeous, but it's certainly an investment! You want to be sure that you'll love your countertops in the long run as well. Some may say that granite is nothing more than a trend, but we say differently.
In this article, we'll break down the hype around granite countertops. You'll learn exactly why they're so popular, and whether they're worth the investment. Read on for more.
Why Some Say Granite Is Going Out of Style
Granite has been an intensely popular kitchen countertop surface for so long that some may question whether it's appeal continues—especially in modern kitchen design. When any design trend becomes as mainstream as granite counters, people become skeptical of its longevity.
Granite first became popular for counters in the nineties. Many countries began mining for granite to meet demand, making it more widely available. Since then, sales have been climbing every year!
Homeowners were fond of granite because it was relatively low-maintenance, easy to clean, and gorgeous to look at. Granite began to replace most Formica counters and soon became commonplace.
In recent years, though, other natural stone options have disrupted granite's popularity. Marble and quartz countertops are rising in popularity: Could they unseat granite?
Likely not. Here's why.
Why Granite Countertops Are Timeless
First, let's show you the numbers. Granite and other natural stone countertop sales are projected to grow into 2025, according to economists. Consumers and homeowners have fallen in love with granite over the last twenty years, and that's not ending anytime soon!
The fact that people have been steadily buying granite countertops since the nineties should be proof that it isn't just a trend. Granite has stayed popular for so long because not only is it gorgeous, but it's durable and easy to maintain.
Since granite is cut to fit your cabinets specifically, there won't be seams or grout that will catch crumbs. To clean a granite countertop, you simply have to wipe it down! Granite also requires minimal upkeep, and won't tarnish or break on you.
Even if you've had granite countertops for a while, they're easy to spruce up. You can refresh your granite without having to replace them!
Natural Stone and Other Finishes
When choosing your countertops, you'll not only choose a material and color palette. You'll choose between different finishes as well. The finish is the "polish" on top of the granite slab, and it can completely transform the look of your counters.
Here are a few of the most popular finishes for granite countertops:
- Polished: this is the most common finish, and makes the granite look glossy and smooth
- Honed: a matte finish with minimal buffing
- Leathered: a newer trend, this finish is marked with small dimples and texture
- Flamed: this finish can only be done on granite and creates a gorgeous marbled sheen
Granite takes new finishes very easily. Getting your countertops refinished can give them a whole new look. Because it's so easy to revitalize your countertops, they'll never go out of style.
Limited Color Availability
When granite countertops first arose in popularity, buyers gravitated toward gray pieces with lots of marbling. Nowadays, minimalist white granite is in high demand. Black granite is also popular for those who want a bold kitchen plan.
To meet demand, different granite is produced, meaning that your exact stone may not be manufactured in five years' time! Your granite will be totally unique to your house. This will raise property value and excite granite enthusiasts.
Finding granite in a unique colorway will set your home apart from other ones. Granite countertops are functional but also serve as a visual centerpiece. Your home will look intriguing but not overly trendy.
The limited availability of granite makes it a commodity. Enthusiasts will be able to spot a rare or limited-production granite pattern.
You can plan your kitchen decor around your granite color, which will create a cohesive aesthetic. Granite makes for eye-catching counters that will work well with most decor. Plan around your granite!
Quartz vs. Granite Countertops
Part of the reason some people believe granite is going out of style is the growing popularity of quartz countertops. Quartz countertops are slightly less expensive than granite, and also come in a variety of colorways.
Quartz countertops are popular among homeowners, in part because of the seemingly limitless color selection and ease of maintenance. Quartz is an engineered stone, meaning that your counters will be manmade instead of having been cut from the rock, which allows more color uniformity, which many people desire.
All in all, quartz makes for fine countertops. But granite countertops will give a one-of-a-kind look and are easier to refurbish later on. Granite may cost more, but it'll be more than worth the investment!
Granite Is Always a Good Investment
We hope this article answered all of your questions about granite countertops. You'll be amazed at the beauty and durability of your new counters when you pick granite. We promise you'll love them just as much in ten years as well.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and start planning your countertop remodel! Try this granite visualizer tool to get you started. Also know that our team of experts is ready to assist in choosing the perfect granite to meet your design and aesthetic preferences, budget, and performance requirements. Chat with us online, visit one of our showrooms, or contact an MSI authorized dealer today!
Read More about Granite Countertops
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How to Keep Your Granite Countertops Looking Their Best
Natural Granite Countertops Frequently Asked Questions
Black Granite Countertops Make a Powerful Statement