You are making a long-term investment when deciding to purchase granite countertops. Granite countertops are a great investment, so you want to make sure you are getting the best value for your money. Therefore, checking the granite quality before purchasing it is a good idea.
So, how can I check granite quality when selecting a countertop?
First, figure out what you want. Choose the color and shape or pattern. Are you interested in having details in your countertop, and what coloring do you prefer, light or dark?
Choosing a high-quality granite countertop is essential. You do not want a countertop that will quickly fade or is porous and quickly soaks up liquid. Instead, test your countertop before purchasing with the simple steps below.
What are the Different Grades of Granite Countertops?
Typically, granite countertops come in three different grades. Before spending your hard-earned money, you want to make sure you are getting the best granite to suit your needs. Which grade of granite will suit your needs and budget?
Grade 1: Entry-Level Granite
This granite is known to be commercial grade; it is a lower quality of granite. Typically, this granite is much thinner than other grades and is imported from China. To strengthen the granite, it has a cardboard backing. While it is thinner than the different grades, it is also less expensive, making it a popular apartment choice. This granite comes in beautiful colors and is durable. One thing to note is it is not a good choice for rooms that are frequently used.
Grade 2: Mid-Grade Granite
This granite is generally imported from India or Brazil. This granite is around ¾” thick and much more durable than grade 1. This choice is most often used in homes because of its hardness, and it is less expensive than Grade 3. The colors of this grade are distinct and stunning.
Grade 3: High-Grade Granite
This granite is the most expensive, varying between $60 to $100. This is because it is of the finest quality and has the rarest colors and patterns. High-grade granite is frequently used as kitchens countertops and around fireplaces.
How Can I Test the Granite?
There are a few different ways you can test the granite. These tests are quick and easy to do that even a first-time buyer can look like a pro. Remember to take your time and go slow.
Ask where the granite came from
This is a question, so you know if it came from China, it is likely grade 1. If it came from India or Brazil, it is grade 2 or 3. Knowing where it came from helps you know the price range; grades 1 and 2 have a much lower cost than grade 3. Again, depending on where and how it is going to be used will determine which grade will work for you.
Do a visual check
When looking at the granite, look at the backing to see if it has a plywood backing. Look to see if there are any dents, scratches, or cracks. Even if there is a small crack, it can later become much larger, especially if something is dropped on it.
Check the dimensions, thickness and make sure the edges are straight
The thickness is based on your preference, your budget, and where you are placing the countertop. When checking the dimensions, you want to make sure it is cut to the exact size you requested. You want to make sure the edges are straight so that the granite countertop fits perfectly in your space without too much space.
Check how porous the Granite is
Porous granite countertops fade quicker, and the color will become dull. There is an easy test to help you see how porous the granite is. Simply squeeze a few drops of lemon onto the countertop. If the drops quickly absorb, you know that it is porous, and you need to look for another granite slab.
Check the polish quality
The polish quality is vital to check to make sure you are getting a high-quality polish. Low-quality polish will not stand up well with long-term use. There are a few different ways to test the polish quality. The first one is to use the lemon drop or water test that is explained above. If you use this test, you can check the porousness and the polish quality at one time.
The scratch test is another one that is recommended. You simply use something like a coin, knife blade, or something similar and make a small scratch on the granite. You do not want the granite countertop if it scratches.
Help from a countertop professional
With a bit of research and work, you can make sure that you are getting high-quality granite countertops, which is what most people desire. If a lower grade works for you, it is still a great choice, granite always is. Just because you believe you are paying for a high-quality countertop does not mean that you are. Always work with a reputable granite countertop dealer to get the best countertop for the money.
If you are in the market for granite countertops as part of your kitchen or bathroom remodel a great place to start is to visit our countertop store in Oak Creek. As one of Wisconsin’s largest fabricator of stone countertops, Wisconsin Granite Design can help with your remodel project from start to finish. Our main goal is to satisfy our customers with the best quality and price in the market and our designers are ready to help. We specialize in granite, marble and quartz and have thousands of slabs and colors to choose from. Call for a Free Design Consultation today!