Granite provides a wonderful option for your countertop project, whether placing it in the kitchen, bathroom, or other areas. It offers aesthetic appeal, durability, ease of maintenance, and uniqueness. Granite resists chipping and staining, making them an excellent option for heavy-use applications.
But granite slabs are each uniquely created by natural processes, so no two are alike.
How do you best select the right grade of granite for your project?
Below we provide some pointers on selecting granite slabs that make your countertop dreams a reality.
Choosing Based on Grade
Since no two granite slabs are identical, it can be hard for novice shoppers to know which ones offer the look, durability, porosity, and damage resistance they need.
Granite graders use several criteria to rate each slab, including the following:
Origin
Granite comes from all around the world. While one geography does not necessarily yield superior specimens, the area it was mined can impact the cost. For example, granite imported from China is often less costly than slabs originating in Brazil or Italy. Because granite weighs a great deal, shipping costs are high, so granite from locations with less pricey per pound shipping costs are less expensive.
Thickness
After miners remove granite from the Earth, they ship it to manufacturers, who then cut it into thinner, manageable slabs. While slicing the granite into thinner pieces is necessary, you want to avoid granite that is cut too thin and has reduced durability. As a rule of thumb, you want pieces at least an inch thick.
Appearance
Appearance plays a central role in a granite slab’s grading. Scratches, dings, and dents all detract from appearance and grade. They may also make the granite more prone to cracking or breaking. Higher-quality granite lacks these blemishes because of its superior strength.
Porosity
Reduced porosity is a critical component in quality granite. Less-quality pieces may allow the stone to absorb thicker liquids without applying a sealant.
Granite Grade Qualifications
Graders use a seven-grade scale to rate granite. While all granite provides aesthetics and utility, you may find it worthwhile to invest the extra money in the higher grades.
Level One: Entry Level
Level one is the lowest grade granite, often called entry-level, commercial-grade, or builder’s grade. These granite slabs often come from China and are thin, often needing a plywood backing to gain durability. Often, builders place these less costly options in apartments and remodeled homes.
Though thinner than other granite grades, entry-level pieces can still look excellent. The color variations may be less stunning, but entry-level granite provides a sophisticated, understated look.
Level Two: Mid-Grade Granite
Mid-grade granites offer more color variation. They usually come from India or Brazil, where a wide variety of granite is found. While more durable than entry-level, mid-grade granite is still far thinner and less durable than the high-grade stuff.
Level Three and Higher: High-Grade Granite
Any granite graded above level three is high-grade granite and can be relied upon to provide the one-inch plus thickness that gives granite its excellent durability and porosity. In addition, they provide excellent aesthetics. These grades of granite have an incredibly unique appearance and are typically imported from India or Brazil.
Consider grades four through seven if you want to find the best granite options available. These highest-quality samples provide elegance and unique aesthetics and can last a lifetime.
Granite provides an excellent choice for your next countertop project. Though grading is an important factor in determining quality, you may find a very high-quality slab of granite with a design you love at a lower grading and price level.
Shopping for granite is a fun and rewarding experience. Being aware of the different grades helps you find the best options.
Need Help Choosing?
Visit Wisconsin Granite Design for answers and you will decide as we are your go-to countertop design and installation team for many reasons. We are an established countertop business with vast experience in countertop fabrication and remodel as well as a one stop shop for your remodel or new build project. Our selection is vast and distinctive, so that you’ll end up with countertops exclusive to your home. Conveniently located in Oak Creek, our customers come from throughout the Milwaukee area to browse our granite, quartz and marble selections.
Work with us and you will admire your granite countertops for years to come! Free consultations.