Granite was once a household standard.
When you walked into a new home and the owners had a stone countertop, you could almost bet it was granite.
However, that’s no longer the case. While it may not be a hot, new feature, this material has stuck around in the industry for a reason.
Why Marble, Quartz and Laminate Got Popular
In the countertop market, granite still has the largest share, thanks to its durability and elegance. However, quartz is not far behind.
Homeowners are loving this material because it has a nonporous surface that reduces its maintenance needs and resists staining and bacteria.
Despite being artificially engineered, quartz counters can still offer the aesthetic appeal of elegant stone, which has helped them become increasingly popular.
While marble takes up much less of the market, it’s a common selection for luxury-minded designers.
People often associate it with the incredible works of art and towering columns of ancient civilizations, giving the stone an air of refinement.
It can also come with gorgeous veining patterns that make any kitchen or bathroom feel more upscale and unique.
Laminate has a slightly larger share than marble.
Homeowners started using it more because it costs much less than granite, marble and stone and is much easier to install.
Plus, you can get these countertops in a variety of patterns, even ones that mimic stone.
How Granite Countertops Compare
Your friends might not think granite countertops are the epitome of luxury anymore, but they’ve proven to last much longer than a trend.
While this material is slightly less strong than quartz, it is very resistant to cuts and scratches.
Marble is soft enough that you can buff out any marks, but granite avoids this chore entirely.
Laminate does not hold up as well as any of these options, though the affordable price means you can replace it more often.
The seal on your granite countertop will wear over time, so you’ll need to reapply it to refresh its durability.
If you keep up with maintenance and get quality installation, it could last for decades, possibly 50 years.
This stone resists heat, too, meaning you don’t have to scramble for a pot holder while pulling a baking tray out of the oven.
People also love granite because it brings a sense of the outdoors inside, as it’s a natural material, while also offering an incredible number of customization options.
Its costs have dropped significantly since becoming popular, so you can get a highly durable countertop at a manageable price.
Meanwhile, marble and quartz can be more expensive.
The Top U.S. Options for Granite
When getting a countertop, you want a company with excellent customer service and a track record of satisfaction.
Here are the top options in multiple regions of the U.S.
GMQ TOPS: Best Place to Buy Granite Countertops in Alabama
GMQ TOPS is one of the best places to buy granite countertops if you live in or around Birmingham, Alabama.
This company offers a turnkey process that includes a consultation with free measurements.
To ensure the final product is to your liking, you’ll meet with a dedicated design professional who will customize a countertop design based on your needs and preferences.
You have multiple color options, as well as the guarantee that its friendly technicians will install your new countertops within 7 to 10 business days.
Look for the package deals and 20% off select colors to maximize your savings.
GMQ TOPS is your top choice in Birmingham, Montgomery and Mobile for countertops with great prices, high quality and fast turnaround times.
Key Features
- Fastest fabrication in the area
- Competitive pricing
- Over 250 colors of stone to choose from
United Granite: Best Place to Buy Granite Countertops in New Jersey
With an average rating of 4.8 out of five stars on Houzz.com and Google, United Granite is a top source of granite countertops in New Jersey.
There are locations in Parsippany and Hillsborough where you can select from its library of over 4,000 stone colors.
A dedicated designer will work with you to plan your new space with the complimentary 3D design service.
United Granite features competitive pricing, complimentary upgrades, monthly promotions and exclusive discounts to make your purchase affordable.
It also has insured and licensed professionals who will install your new countertops if you don’t already have a contractor.
Key Features
- No-cost consultations and quotes
- Broad color selection
- Showrooms in Parsippany and Hillsborough
Granite Accents Inc.: Best Place to Buy Granite Countertops in South Dakota
Granite Accents is one of the best places to buy granite countertops in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
This locally owned business has specialized in installing granite and other stones for 30 years.
In addition to its large selection of slabs on-site, you can also shop for accent pieces like bars, fireplaces, deck post caps and outdoor kitchen countertops.
It buys its stones from large suppliers, so you can choose from a wide range of selections that suit your style and bank account.
The teams are also experts in protecting and sealing granite countertops, as well as helping you select the perfect piece for your kitchen or bathroom.
For customization down to the edges, Granite Accents is a top option in Sioux Falls.
Key Features
- Options to add heating mats and a charging station
- Large on-site slab selection
- Can provide professional installation
Stoneville USA: Best Place to Buy Granite Countertops in California
California can look to Stoneville USA for all its granite countertop needs.
This family-owned and -operated business has been serving Northern and Southern California residents since 2006.
It has gorgeous selections of solid and naturally patterned stones that give your spaces an eye-catching focal point.
You can even learn the story behind the stone you select.
The family that owns Stoneville USA hand-chooses the inventory from countries like Spain, Italy, Madagascar, India, Australia, Brazil, Angola and more.
While this may sound expensive, the business ensures it keeps affordable materials in stock so anyone can have the countertops of their dreams.
Key Features
- Locations in Los Angeles and San Jose
- 10% discount for EMTs, teachers, firefighters, veterans and nurses
- Best-quality materials at competitive prices
Granite Is Trendy and Timeless
Though other stones may become popular for a few years, granite is an enduring option in the countertop industry.
It’s lasted the test of time because of its strength and the multiple ways you can customize it.
Rather than opting for the current trend, discerning homeowners should look for quality materials that offer longevity in design and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the most common questions people ask about granite countertops.
It costs $3,250 on average to install granite countertops, but this can depend on the type of counter you opt for and its size. You could spend $75-$135 per square foot with installation included. Modular granite countertops are made of smaller slabs and can range from $20-$90 per square foot and installation. The cheapest option is granite tiles, which may cost $20-$60 per square foot with installation.
It is possible to install a granite countertop yourself, but if you do it wrong, you’ll likely need expensive repairs later. The slabs also weigh hundreds of pounds and require specialized tools and knowledge to place. While professional installation does notably increase the final cost, it pays for itself in the long run.
You should reseal your granite countertops every couple of years. Doing so helps them resist stains and maintain their strength.
To clean your granite countertops, mix a tablespoon of mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket. Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface with the soapy water, then dry with a dry cloth. You can also spritz it with a blend of 4 tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol, four drops of soap and warm water in a 1-liter spray bottle. Let this sit for up to five minutes, then wipe down with a clean sponge.
Never use window cleaner, bleach, all-purpose cleaners or ammonia on your granite countertops. These can strip the sealant.
