Real Or Fake Granite... Which Is Best For Your Home

Are you thinking about installing granite countertops on a table, desk, or counter in your home? There are obviously a lot of things you need to consider before making this big decision. Of course, the location and how you plan on using that surface will have a bearing on what material is going to be the most practical. But, regardless of how you are going to use the surface, you need to think about what it means to own and care for a real granite countertop. After reading this maintenance, you might find that you are leaning towards a composite material. This article will help you make a more informed decision.

First off, there is something undeniably attractive and romantic about using real granite in home construction. It is a material that is both old-fashioned and modern at the same time. Granite can be used in avant-garde, modern design, or it can be used to create century-old styles that evoke classic European design. Either way, it is a very adaptable material. But, as long as granite has been used in the construction of countertops, it has required special care and maintenance.

Granite is Not Technically Waterproof

Many people are surprised to find out that granite is not actually waterproof. In fact, granite surfaces — even when they are shiny and polished smooth — have microscopic pores. These tiny holes can present unique problems in certain situations. For example, in a kitchen where raw food is being prepared, you have to worry about bacteria and mold forming within these pores. To prevent moisture from wreaking havoc on a granite surface, it usually needs to be sealed once every two or three years.

Sealing Granite

This isn't a very hard job, but it can be a little expensive. A bottle of granite sealant can cost some money and really only contains enough for a normal kitchen counter. The process for sealing granite is easy enough to do yourself, but it can be a little inconvenient. That is, you need to clean the surface very well before applying the sealant. Then you need to let the sealant dry and settle for several hours before you can reapply it. Then you usually need to apply a second coat, if not a third. Lastly, you need to buff away the haze and let the counter cure for 24 hours before using it again.

If this job sounds too inconvenient, then you should take a look at some composite granite materials or consider hiring a professional to seal your granite countertop.

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