A granite countertop is a good thing to have in your kitchen or bathroom. It's special, can handle heat and leaks, and has a strong surface. But if you don't take care of it, you'll have to fix it a lot or even get a new one. And getting a new countertop can be really expensive, which you don't want.
To keep your countertop nice and make the most of its benefits, you need to take care of it. This will save you money and make your countertop last longer.
Installing countertops with wrong measurements
One big mistake to avoid with your granite countertops is using the wrong measurements. If you get the measurements wrong, you might end up with too little or too much granite. This can mess up the installation and make you spend more money than you planned.
To steer clear of measurement errors, it’s best to hire experienced countertops installers. But if you want to do it yourself, be sure to double-check your measurements before ordering the new countertops.
Hiring inexperienced countertop installers
It’s really not a good idea to try installing your granite countertops by yourself. It’s much better to hire a professional installer to do it for you.
Sure, hiring skilled countertop installers might cost you more, but it’s worth it. They’ll do the job right, and that means your countertop will last longer. It’s a smart investment in the long run.
Wrong choice of Stone
The durability of your granite countertop depends on the type of stone you choose. Picking the right stone means your countertop will last longer.
To start, do some research on different types of countertop stones and choose one that suits your kitchen needs. Think about how you’ll use the stone in your kitchen because each type has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Also, consider the cost because it can affect the quality of the stone you choose. Natural stones like marble and granite are pricier than alternatives like quartz. But no matter which stone you go with, make sure you evaluate what each one offers so you can make the best choice.
Preference on color instead of quality granite countertop
It’s more important to focus on the quality of your countertop slabs than their color. Choosing the right color can help prevent stains on your granite, but having good quality slabs can save you from needing lots of maintenance.
Cleaning with harsh chemicals
The sealants on your countertops are there to get rid of stains and to stop liquids like oil or water from soaking into your granite. But using strong disinfectants, acids, or abrasive cleaners can weaken the sealant and end up damaging your countertop.
Instead of using harsh chemicals, opt for a soft washcloth, warm water, and mild soap (like dish soap) to clean your countertop surfaces. This method is gentle on the sealant of the granite and helps extend the lifespan of your countertop.
Random selection of edges
Don’t just pick countertop edges randomly. Take the time to research the different edge styles that are suitable for your kitchen before ordering them from the showroom. If you make a mistake with the wrong choice of edging, it can’t be easily fixed.
If you need to change your edging, you’ll have to take out the installed countertops slabs first before reinstalling them again. This can be a hassle and might cost you extra time and money.
A countertop not a cutting board
Your countertop isn’t meant for cutting food, especially raw meat. Use a cutting board instead to prepare your food. And keep sharp objects like knives away from the countertops to avoid scratches.
Also, don’t let meat waste sit on the countertops for too long. It can stain the surface and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This can damage your countertops over time.
Using the countertop as a seat
A common mistake to avoid is sitting on your kitchen cabinet. Even though the countertops are strong, it’s not designed for sitting on.
People are heavy, and using the cabinets as a seat can damage them over time. This can lead to cracks in the granite surface, and you might end up needing to replace it sooner than expected.
When selecting granite countertops, it's crucial to avoid common mistakes to ensure longevity. Researching stone types and hiring skilled professionals for countertop installation are top priorities. Consider your preferred style and gather necessary supplies before beginning the process of installing granite counters.
When remodeling your kitchen, the process of buying granite countertops requires careful consideration. Researching different stone types and avoiding common mistakes to avoid ensures a successful installation. Additionally, don’t forget to stock up on appropriate cleaning supplies to maintain your granite countertops for years to come.
Before you pick up your granite countertops from the showroom you like, do your homework on different types of stone and choose the one that suits you. Have a professional installer put it in for you to avoid making big mistakes.
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