Thinking of revamping the kitchen in your Mississauga, Ontario-area home? Granite countertops are a popular choice for a reason! They look stunning and are durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment for any homeowner.
Want to avoid the mistakes many fall into when buying granite countertops? At Stone & Stone, Mississauga’s premier granite fabricator, we understand the importance of making an informed decision when selecting granite countertops. That’s why we have created this comprehensive guide to ensure you end up with this natural stone countertop that perfectly complements your kitchen’s aesthetic while meeting your functional needs.
From choosing the right colour and pattern to understanding your maintenance requirements, we’ve got you covered.
Blunders to Avoid When Purchasing Granite Countertops for Your Mississauga, Ontario Home
When you are planning to purchase a granite kitchen countertop, make sure to avoid the following common mistakes for a valuable investment.
Don’t Obsess Over Countertop Thickness
While the thickness of a countertop is important for its durability, it should not be the only factor you consider. Generally, granite countertops are available in either ¾-inch or 1 ¼-inch thicknesses. However, opting for a thicker slab may result in two pieces being bonded together, which is not advisable. If you prefer thicker countertops, investing in custom solid slabs is recommended. They may be costly, but the quality justifies the expense.
Do Not Favour Colour Over Countertop Quality
Granite kitchen countertops come in a wide array of colours and unconventional veining patterns that improve the visual appeal of your space. However, emphasizing colour over the stone’s quality is risky. For example, your minimalist kitchen might benefit from a white granite countertop, but investing in a high-quality stone will yield greater value over time.
Remember to Seal Your Countertop
Granite countertops should always be sealed professionally before installation. If left untreated, they are porous and prone to staining. Failure to seal the countertop properly can compromise its appearance.
Don’t Forget to Match Your Countertops with Your Cabinets
Ensure that your countertops complement your cabinets to optimize your kitchen’s appearance and utility. For instance, if your cabinets feature intricate detailing, opt for countertops with similarly elaborate edge profiles, such as cornice, boulder, or basin edges. Conversely, if your cabinets have a sleek design, consider a summit or volcanic edge for your countertops. Matching countertops and cabinets is essential to maintaining a cohesive and harmonious kitchen aesthetic.
Regarding edges, boulder, cornice, and basin edges are different types of granite countertop profiles. The boulder edge is rugged and rustic, resembling natural boulders. The cornice edge is elegant and curved, adding sophistication to the countertop. The basin edge is smooth and rounded, offering a modern look.
Summit or volcanic edges are modern edge profiles for granite countertops. Summit edges have clean, straight lines for a minimalist look, while volcanic edges feature rugged textures resembling natural landscapes. Both offer contemporary styles that enhance your kitchen’s appearance. Each profile brings its own unique style to your kitchen, complementing the cabinets and overall decor.
Don’t Take Wrong Measurements
When purchasing granite countertops, always measure your kitchen correctly; otherwise, you may end up buying too few or too many granite slabs. Ultimately, this will cost you money and cause delays. Consider hiring a professional installer if you’re uncomfortable with taking the measurements. You can also ask the countertop fabricator to send their technicians to take precise measurements before you place your order.
Take Into Account the Sink Cut-Out
When ordering a granite countertop, it is important to have a properly sized hole cut out to fit your sink. Neglecting this step will result in wasted time and expenses.
Don’t Prioritize Price Alone
Undoubtedly, price is an important factor when purchasing a granite countertop. However, it should not be the sole factor. An expensive countertop does not guarantee a visually appealing kitchen, while an affordable slab can enhance the space’s aesthetics.
The key is approaching the selection process with an open mind and prioritizing finding the countertop that suits your requirements and preferences, regardless of its price point.
Additional Tips to Consider When Purchasing a Granite Countertop for Your Mississauga Home’s Kitchen
Having discussed the mistakes to avoid when choosing granite countertops, we will now provide additional tips to help you become an informed buyer and secure the best possible deal.
- Consider your kitchen’s size when choosing the colour of granite. For example, if you have a small kitchen, choose light-coloured granite, such as white or beige; dark colours, such as brown or black, are appropriate for larger kitchens.
- Granite countertops offer a variety of finishes, including honed, polished, and leather. A honed finish provides a matte appearance, leaving the surface smooth like satin. A polished finish is the most popular, as it enhances the countertop’s pattern and colour by creating a nearly mirror-like surface. A leathered or brushed finish is designed to conceal imperfections in the granite slab. This is achieved by brushing diamond-tipped brushes along a honed surface, adding texture with subtle dimples. Each finish offers distinct characteristics. Choose a honed finish for a buffed look, while a polished finish makes a bold statement with its shiny surface.
- You can choose between tiles and slabs when shopping for granite countertops for your Mississauga, Ontario home. In fact, granite tiles are available at reasonable prices, but visible grout lines appear odd and accumulate dirt if not properly cleaned. Granite slabs cost a bit more but are worth considering for the uniform and stunning look and feel.
- To minimize fabrication expenses, it is advisable to avoid undermount sinks, which require more extensive cutting than drop-in sinks. An undermount sink is installed under the counter, creating a seamless transition between the countertop and sink surface. A drop-in sink, on the other hand, is designed to be dropped into a pre-cut hole in the countertop, with the sink’s rim resting on top of the counter. This additional cutting process significantly increases the overall fabrication costs associated with the installation.
Purchasing granite countertops in Mississauga requires careful consideration to avoid common mistakes. Prioritize quality over price, ensure accurate measurements, and match your countertops with your cabinets. Consider factors like colour, finish, and the choice between slabs and tiles. Contact Stone & Stone for valuable insights and information regarding granite countertops. Our team is readily available for a consultation to guide you through the process. We offer a 20% discount on faucets or sinks when you purchase our countertops.