Last Updated on June 4, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
There are many different types of granite countertops, and each one has its own set of pros and cons. In this blog post, we will discuss the most popular types of granite countertops and what makes them unique. We will also provide information on how to choose the right type of granite for your home or business. So, if you’re considering installing a new countertop in the near future, be sure to read this post!
What is granite?
Granite is a natural stone that is found in many parts of the world. It is a hard, durable rock that has been used for centuries in construction and architecture.
Granite is available in a wide range of colors, from light to dark, and can be polished to a high shine. This makes it a popular choice for countertops, floors, and other surfaces in the home. Granite is also easy to care for and maintain, making it a wise investment for the long term.
Types of Granite Countertops.
There are many types of granite countertops available on the market today. Here is a brief overview of some of the most popular types:
1. Modular Granite.
If you are looking for a way to update your kitchen or bathroom without spending a fortune, then modular granite may be the perfect solution for you.
Modular granite is made up of small pieces of stone that are fit together like a puzzle. This type of granite is much less expensive than traditional slab granite, and it can be installed in a fraction of the time.
If you are considering modular granite for your next home improvement project, here are a few things to keep in mind.
First, modular granite comes in a variety of colors and styles. Whether you want a classic look or something more modern, you should be able to find an option that suits your taste.
Second, modular granite is much easier to install than traditional slab granite. If you are handy with tools and have some basic carpentry skills, you should be able to do it yourself. However, if you are not comfortable doing the installation yourself, you can hire a professional.
Third, modular granite is a great way to add value to your home. If you are planning on selling your home in the future, installing modular granite can help you get a higher price.
Pros and cons of modular granite:
There are a few pros and cons to consider when it comes to modular granite. On the plus side, modular granite is typically less expensive than slab granite, as it is produced in large quantities and doesn’t require the same level of customization. Additionally, modular granite can be installed relatively quickly and easily, which can be a big advantage if you’re working with a tight timeline.
On the downside, modular granite may not look as high-end as slab granite, as it often has seams where the individual pieces fit together. Additionally, because it is mass-produced, you may have less control over the overall look of your countertops.
Modular Granite cost.
The average cost of modular granite is $40 to $60 per square foot. However, the price can vary greatly depending on the type of granite you choose. The most expensive granites can cost up to $200 per square foot.
2. Slab Granite.
Slab granite is a type of granite that is cut into thin, rectangular slabs. It is typically used for countertops, backsplashes, and other architectural features. Slab granite is available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
Slab granite is a durable material that can withstand years of use without showing signs of wear. It is also heat resistant and easy to clean, making it a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
Slab granite is usually more expensive than other types of granite, but it is worth the investment for its beauty and durability.
Pros and cons of slab granite:
Slab granite is a popular choice for countertops, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Here are some pros and cons of slab granite to help you decide if it’s the right material for your kitchen or bathroom counters.
Pros:
– Slab granite is very durable. It’s heat resistant and scratch resistant, so it’s ideal for busy kitchens.
– Slab granite is a natural material, so it adds a touch of luxury to your home.
– Granite comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect match for your kitchen or bathroom.
– Slab granite is easy to clean. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap.
Cons:
– Slab granite is expensive. It’s one of the most costly countertop materials on the market.
– Slab granite is heavy. You’ll need professional help to install it in your home.
– Granite can crack or chip if it’s not properly sealed or cared for.
– Some people find granite cold and hard to the touch.
Slab Granite cost.
The average cost of slab granite is $50 to $60 per square foot. This includes the cost of installation, which is typically $35 to $50 per square foot. The total cost of slab granite countertops can range from $800 to $1300.
3. Tiled Granite.
Tiled granite is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. It is durable and easy to care for, making it a great option for busy families. Granite is also heat resistant, making it a good choice for areas where there is a lot of cooking or entertaining.
When choosing granite tile for your home, be sure to select a color and style that complements your existing décor. You can find tiled granite in a variety of colors, including black, white, and green.
Pros and cons of tiled granite:
Tiled granite can give your home a luxurious and high-end look. It is also a very durable material, making it ideal for areas that see a lot of foot traffic. However, tiled granite can be quite expensive, and it can be difficult to find tiles that match the exact color and pattern of your granite countertop. If you are considering tiled granite for your home, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a final decision.
Tiled Granite cost.
Granite tiles typically cost between $15 and $30 per square foot. Installation costs are an additional $45 to $60 per hour.
Types of Granite Colors.
Granite is an igneous rock, which means it was once molten and formed as it cooled deep within the earth. The formation of granite results in a very hard, durable stone that has a wide variety of colors. Here are some of the most popular types of granite colors:
White Granite.
White granite is the classic granite color and remains a popular choice for kitchen countertops.
White granite is not really white, but rather it contains a large amount of quartz or feldspar.
It does not have much variation in color, but rather has a consistent light tone.
White granite is very versatile and can be used in both traditional and contemporary kitchen designs.
Some of the most popular white granite colors include:
1. Alaska White Granite.
Alaska white granite is a type of granite that is found in Alaska. It is a white granite with black veins running through it. Alaska white granite is a hard granite and is used for countertops, floors, and walls in homes and commercial buildings.
Alaska White Granite is a beautiful stone that can add elegance to any home or office. If you are looking for a truly unique granite, then Alaska White Granite is the perfect choice for you.
2. Bianco Antico Granite.
Bianco Antico granite is an elegant white granite that has a subtlety of movement and veins throughout. Bianco Antico is one of the most popular granites used in homes due its timeless look. This granite is perfect for any kitchen countertop, bathroom vanity, or fireplace surround.
Bianco Antico granite is available in both slabs and tiles making it a versatile option for any project. Bianco Antico is also available in a honed finish which gives it a more matte look.
If you are looking for an elegant white granite, Bianco Antico is the perfect choice!
3. Moon White Granite.
Moon white granite is a beautiful natural stone that can be used for countertops, backsplashes and other features in your home. This type of granite is white with grey veining and has a polished finish.
Moon white granite is a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms because it is easy to clean and maintain. This stone is also resistant to stains and scratches.
4. Kashmir White Granite.
Kashmir white granite is a very popular granite and has been used in many homes. It is durable and has a beautiful finish. Kashmir white granite is a great choice for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and even flooring.
5. River White Granite.
River white granite is a natural stone that has a white background with grey and black veins. It is found in India and is also known as Indian River White Granite. This granite is mostly used for countertops, floors, and wall cladding. It has a high polish and is very durable.
This granite is perfect for any kitchen or bathroom because it is very easy to clean and maintain. River white granite is a very popular choice for homeowners because it is so versatile and beautiful.
If you are looking for a new countertop, flooring, or wall cladding, then consider river white granite.
Black granite.
Black granite is a type of granite that is black in color. It is usually found in the form of large boulders or rocks. Black granite is widely used in the construction industry and is a popular choice for countertops, flooring, and other applications.
Black granite is quarried from many different locations around the world. Some of the most popular black granite quarries are located in Brazil, India, and China. Black granite is also found in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Africa.
Black granite is a durable material that is resistant to scratches and stains. It is also heat resistant and does not require much maintenance.
1. Absolute Black Granite.
Absolute black granite is a solid black granite from India that has a very consistent color and texture. It is available in both polished and honed finishes, and it is ideal for use in countertops, floors, and other architectural applications.
Absolute Black Granite is the perfect choice for those who want a uniform look in their granite countertops or floors.
2. Black Galaxy Granite.
Black galaxy granite is a very popular type of granite. It is a dark black color with small flecks of silver or white. Black galaxy granite is a great choice for countertops, floors, and backsplashes.
It is also a good choice for exterior applications such as landscaping and paving. Black galaxy granite is available in both tiles and slabs.
3. Black Pearl Granite.
Black pearl granite is an igneous rock that is formed from the cooling of magma.
It is a type of granite that is found in many parts of the world, but it is most commonly found in Africa and Asia.
Black pearl granite has a wide range of colors, from light to dark, and it can be used for a variety of purposes.
4. Uba Tuba Granite.
Uba Tuba granite is a dark colored granite that is extremely popular for indoor and outdoor use. This type of granite is typically found in Brazil and has a very low absorption rate, making it ideal for high traffic areas.
Uba Tuba granite is also heat resistant and scratch resistant, making it a great choice for countertops, floors, and other surfaces.
Brown granite.
Brown granite is a type of granite that is brown in color. It is one of the most popular types of granite colors. Brown granite is a durable and beautiful material that can be used for countertops, floors, and other surfaces in your home.
1. Baltic Brown Granite.
Baltic brown granite is one of the most popular types of granite colors. It is a dark brown color with flecks of black, white, and red.
Baltic brown granite is perfect for kitchen countertops, floors, and backsplashes. It is also a popular choice for fireplaces and outdoor living areas.
2. Venetian Gold Granite.
Venetian gold granite is an exclusive stone that is only found in a few quarries around the world. This granite has a very unique color which is a result of the high iron content in the stone. The veins of this granite are very thin and often have a gold or yellowish hue to them.
3. Giallo Ornamental Granite.
Giallo ornamental granite is a durable and popular choice for countertops. It has a medium to coarse grain with a background of yellow and flecks of black, white, and gray. This granite is one of the most affordable choices and is easy to find.
4. St. Cecilia Granite.
St. Cecilia granite is a type of granite that is found in Brazil. It is one of the most popular types of granite because it has a very unique color.
The granite has a white base with black and gray veins running through it. This type of granite is also very durable and easy to care for.
5. Tan Brown Granite.
Tan brown granite is one of the most popular granite colors. It is a beautiful dark brown color with subtle tan and golden hues. Tan brown granite is perfect for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, floors, and backsplashes.
Gray granite.
It is one of the most popular granite colors. It has a light color that makes it perfect for any kitchen or bathroom design. Gray granite is also one of the most durable types of granite, making it a great choice for countertops and floors.
1. Bianco Antico granite.
Bianco Antico granite is a beautiful natural stone that has many unique features.
One of the most notable features of Bianco Antico granite is its gray color.
This gray color is very versatile and can be used in a variety of settings.
Bianco Antico granite is also very durable, making it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
2. Costa Esmeralda granite.
Costa Esmeralda granite is a type of gray granite that is found in Brazil. It has a medium- to coarse-grained texture and is available in both slabs and tiles.
Costa Esmeralda granite is durable and resistant to staining, making it a popular choice for countertops and other surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom. This granite also takes on a high polish, giving it a beautiful shine.
Costa Esmeralda granite is available in a variety of colors, including white, black, and green. It is also possible to find this granite with veins of gold or silver running through it.
Costa Esmeralda granite is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor use. It is frequently used in commercial and residential applications. Costa Esmeralda granite is an ideal choice for those who are looking for a durable, beautiful, and easy-to-care-for material.
3. Caledonia Granite.
Caledonia granite is a beautiful, natural stone that has many uses in the home. It is durable and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for countertops, floors, and other surfaces. Granite is also heat resistant and scratch resistant, making it ideal for use in the kitchen.
4. Steel Gray Granite.
Steel gray granite is a fine-grained, dark gray igneous rock composed mainly of quartz and feldspar. It is found in mountains and hillsides all over the world.
The name “steel gray granite” comes from its resemblance to steel. The color is caused by the presence of iron in the stone. Steel gray granite is a very hard rock, making it difficult to carve. It is often used in buildings and monuments.
Steel gray granite is a popular choice for countertops and other household applications because of its durability and low maintenance requirements. The stone is also used in cemetery markers and headstones.
Steel gray granite has a long history of use in construction and architecture. Its strength and beauty have made it a popular material for centuries.
Types of Granite Edges.
Granite is a natural stone that has been used for centuries in both indoor and outdoor applications. Its durability and beauty make it a popular choice for countertops, floors, walls, and more. When it comes to granite edges, there are several different types to choose from. Here is a look at some of the most popular options:
1. Beveled Edge.
Beveled edge is a classic granite edge type. Its main purpose is to give the countertop a more finished look and help hide any imperfections along the edges of the granite. This edge type can be used on both straight and curved countertops.
The beveled edge is created by cutting the stone at an angle, usually 45 degrees. This gives the edge a slanted look. The beveled edge is one of the most popular types of granite edges because it is simple, yet effective. It can be used on both kitchen and bathroom countertops.
2. Bullnose Edge.
Bullnose edge is the most common type of edge for granite countertops. The name “bullnose” comes from the rounded, curved shape of the edge. Bullnose edges are smooth and soft, making them very safe and comfortable to the touch. This type of edge is also very easy to clean, which makes it a popular choice for kitchen countertops.
One of the main reasons why bullnose edges are so popular is because they can be used in a variety of different design styles. Bullnose edges work well with both traditional and contemporary designs. They can also be used in both formal and informal settings.
3. Chiseled Edge.
Chiseled edge is the most basic type of granite edge. It is simply created by chipping away at the stone with a hammer and chisel until the desired shape is achieved. This type of edge is often used on less formal countertops or surfaces where a more rustic look is desired.
4. Eased Edge.
Eased edge is the most commonly used edge type. It has a soft, rounded look that works with any countertop style.
Eased edges can be created with a variety of different machines, including hand-held routers and CNC machines.
5. Elite Traditional Edge.
Elite traditional edge is the perfect edge for a more formal kitchen. The countertop is cut at a 45 degree angle and then polished to give it a sleek, finished look. This edge is also easy to clean and maintain.
6. Full Bullnose Transitional Edge.
Full bullnose transitional edge is a very popular type of granite edge. It is commonly used in both kitchens and bathrooms. This type of edge gives the countertop a smooth, rounded look that is both classic and timeless. Full bullnose transitional edges are also very easy to clean and maintain.
7. Half Round Transitional Edge.
Half round transitional edge is a classic style that can be used with any type of granite. It is timeless and elegant, and can be dressed up or down depending on your taste. This edge is also very versatile, as it can be used in both traditional and contemporary settings.
8. Laminated or Stacked Edge.
The next most popular edge is the Laminated or Stacked edge. This is where two or more pieces of granite are glued and laminated together to create a thicker, more durable edge.
The main advantage of this type of edge is that it is less likely to chip than a thinner edge. However, the downside is that it can be difficult to repair if it does become damaged.
Laminated or Stacked edges are most commonly seen on countertops and other high-traffic areas. They are also popular for use on outdoor surfaces, such as patios and decks, because they are less likely to chip or crack in these harsher environments.
9. Ogee Edge.
Ogee edge is the most common type of edge for granite countertops. The ogee edge has a double curve, with the top curve being convex and the bottom curve being concave. This type of edge is very versatile and can be used in both traditional and contemporary settings.
10. Ogee Traditional Edge.
Ogee traditional edge is one of the most popular edges for granite countertops. It is similar to a bullnose edge, but with a more dramatic curve. This type of edge can help to soften the look of a kitchen and make it feel more inviting.
11. Roman Elite Traditional Edge.
Roman elite traditional edge is a classic choice for any kitchen countertop. It has a timeless look that will never go out of style. Roman elite traditional edge is also a very versatile option, as it can be used with any type of granite countertop.
12. Rock Edge.
Rock edge is the most basic type of granite edge. It is simply the natural, rough edge of the stone. This type of edge is usually found on outdoor applications, like pool coping or paving stones.
13. Roman Round Edge.
Roman round edge is one of the most popular edges for granite countertops. It’s a classic, timeless look that can be used in both traditional and contemporary settings. The rounded edge gives the countertop a softer look and feel, while still providing plenty of surface area for prep work.
14. Straight Edge.
Straight edge granite is the most popular type of granite edge. It has a clean, classic look that goes well with any countertop style. Straight edges are easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for busy kitchens.
15. Top and Bottom Rounded Edge.
Top and bottom rounded edge is the most common type of granite edge. This type of edge is rounded on both the top and bottom, making it soft and smooth to the touch. This type of edge is also easy to clean, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops.
16. Waterfall Granite Edge.
Waterfall granite edge is a great choice for those who want to add a touch of luxury to their kitchen. It is also a good choice for those who have limited counter space. This edge gives the illusion of more counter space and it also makes the kitchen look bigger. Waterfall granite edge is also a good choice for those who want to make their kitchen look more modern.
17. Flat Edge.
This is the most basic and popular type of edge. The stone is cut flush with the countertop surface, giving it a clean look that works well with any style of kitchen.
Conclusion
Granite countertops are a luxurious and beautiful addition to any home. There are many different types of granite, each with its own unique color and pattern. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your kitchen or bathroom. However, by considering the type of granite you want, the colors you like, and the overall style of your home, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect granite countertop for your needs.