If you’ve chosen granite countertops for any home improvement projects lately, you’ve made the right choice. Granite is known for its durability and resistance to scratches or chips. Plus, granite offers a sophisticated, modern look when used in a room.
If you haven’t made the leap to purchase granite, it’s time to do some research. There are different types, or “grades,” of granite. Each grade has its own benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to understand the elements of each grade to determine which is the best option for you. Choosing the highest grade, for example, will have appealing benefits as opposed to lesser grades.
What are the different grades of granite and why choose the highest grade?
There are three different grades of granite. There’s low-grade granite, mid-grade granite, and high-grade granite. Grade is determined by factors including color, veins, marking, thickness, pitting, soft material, and where the granite was quarried.
There’s no need to be overwhelmed by the different routes you can take. Each grade of granite offers its own appeal. By the end of your research, you’ll know exactly which grade is right for you.
Identifying Low-Grade Granite
Low-grade granite, also known as Level 1 or “Entry Level” granite, is typically considered “commercial” or “builder’s” grade. Entry level granite is typically prefabricated and commonly used in apartments, either for remodels or new furniture.
Low-grade granite comes in thinner cuts, typically about 3/8 inch, and typically needs some plywood to back it. Level 1 granite has a basic structure, with an average design and colors. Entry level granite is usually imported from China and then sold through granite liquidators.
How to Spot Mid-Grade Granite
Mid-grade granite has a thickness of roughly 2/4 inch. The overall visual appeal of mid-level granite is elevated compared to the entry level granite. There’s more interesting design. Mid-grade granite is typically imported from India or Brazil.
High-Grade Granite Wins
High-grade granite, also known as Level 3+ granite, is usually the highest quality appearance-wise. Granite can have up to 6 or 7 levels and is generally imported from India/Brazil and has a thickness of at least ¾ inch.
Though high-grade granite can be more expensive, remember that granite can add a level of sophistication for your project, especially because the higher the grade, the more elevated the appearance of the color, design, veining, etc.
Related Questions
How Can You Tell Quality of Granite?
Granite grade can be determined by different factors. The size of the granite slabs and thickness can hint at the level. The slabs typically come in squares or rectangles, depending on the consumer’s request. The dimensions of the slabs typically don’t exceed 1 mm in length and thickness.
Granite’s color is typically uniform, with a crystalline appearance and overall blended appearance. The slab should be quite dense and hard. If you press a hard object against the slab, there should be no scratches or chips.
You can check the polishing quality and the quality of the cut. At least one of the surface areas should be properly polished. This would be the side you want to appear on the countertop or for whatever project you’re doing.
There are a few other things to check for to confirm the quality of your granite. Check the diagonal of the slabs. They should be uniform and measure the same length. The top layer of the slab should be straight and without scratches, cracks, and chips. There shouldn’t be any holes in the slab.
You can check the color by rubbing a kerosene or petrol-dipped cloth on the slab. If the color transfers onto the cloth, then the color is likely artificial. In addition, check the porosity of the slab using 3 to 4 drops of lemon juice or citric acid on top of the slab.
If the slab absorbs the juice rapidly, the granite has a high porosity. You can deduce the slab is low-quality. If the droplets leave a white stain on the slab, you can conclude the slab is low quality. Basically, if the slab reacts to the droplets in any abnormal way, you’re not dealing with high-grade granite.
Summary
Overall, there are various options for granite depending on your budget, style, and availability of the product. Whether you want something basic and affordable or sophisticated and high quality, you can pick between 6 to 7 grades of granite. Of course, if you want a stunning, crystalline texture, you should pick the highest grade of granite, it’s worth the investment. But regardless, granite is a worthy investment for your project.
Wisconsin Granite Design can help make your countertop dreams come true. Our expert natural stone professionals have installed countless of kitchen countertops throughout our great state and will help make the process of choosing a countertop for your kitchen or bath remodel easy.
Our designers are happy to meet with you to discuss your remodel project, and our vast selection of countertop materials ensures that you will find the perfect countertop solution. We specialize in granite, marble and quartz and offer customized, budget friendly designs and installation. Call us today for a Free Design Consultation!