Black granite is a popular choice for kitchen countertops due to its timeless, classic beauty. Some popular black granite varieties that are suitable for kitchen countertops include Absolute Black, Kashmir Black, and Cambrian Black.
Absolute Black is a fine-grained solid black granite that is the darkest natural stone available, while Kashmir Black is a lighter-colored granite with subtle swirls and veins of black and gray, and Cambrian Black is a speckled black granite with light gray and white accents.
In addition, several other varieties of black granite, such as Cosmic Black and Jet Mist, can also make attractive kitchen countertops. No matter which style of black granite you choose for your kitchen, it will provide a striking, eye-catching contrast with lighter-colored cabinets, walls, and tile accents.
Is black granite good for kitchen countertops?
Yes, black granite is a great choice for kitchen countertops. It is one of the most expensive and durable options available, and it is perfect for adding a modern and stylish look to any kitchen. Black granite is scratch and heat resistant, so it can withstand the wear and tear that comes with everyday kitchen use.
It is also very low maintenance, as it only needs to be regularly wiped down with warm, soapy water to keep it looking its best. Black granite is a great choice for those who want a luxurious and long-lasting finish to their kitchen countertop.
Is black granite still in style?
Yes, black granite is still very much in style. In fact, it is extremely popular due to its timeless appeal and versatility. It works with a variety of interior design styles and it can be used both in a classic or contemporary home, making it a great choice for any kitchen or bathroom.
Black granite is also very practical because of its durability and heat resistance, and its sophisticated look makes it the perfect countertop material for those who want to add a touch of luxury to their home.
Additionally, black granite is easy to clean, hide scratches and stains and is highly resistant to bacteria and odors, making it a great choice for families or those who often entertain. Finally, it pairs well with a variety of cabinet colors, wood finishes, and hardware, which makes it incredibly versatile.
What color granite is most expensive?
The exact price of granite can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors such as the rarity of the color, quality, and availability. Generally, however, some of the most expensive granite colors are Blue Louise, Red Dragon, Ubatuba, Verde Butterfly, Tiger Skin, Rosso Verona, Costa Esmeralda, and Imperial White.
Blue Louise is a striking blue color with flecks of white, black, grey, and even hints of purple. Red Dragon is a deep burgundy color with speckles of black, white, and grey. Ubatuba is a green option with gold and black flecks sprinkled throughout.
Verde Butterfly is a mossy green with gold and brown highlights. Tiger Skin is a brown granite with flecks of tan, grey, and yellow. Rosso Verona is a vibrant red with flecks of grey and white. Costa Esmeralda is a deep blue-green color with specks of yellow and gold.
And finally, Imperial White is an ivory tone with grey, black and red flecks. No matter which one you choose, however, all of these granites can add an elegant touch to any home.
What is the downside of granite countertops?
One of the downsides of granite countertops is that granite can be expensive and can require a significant investment. Depending on the grade and pattern, granite slabs can cost between $50-$200 per square foot.
Fabrication and installation of a granite countertop can also add to the total cost.
Another downside is that over time, you may have to reseal granite countertops, especially if you’re using a honed or textured surface. You may also have to periodically clean them with a stone cleaner to prevent staining from oils and acids.
Granite is heavy and difficult to install and is best left to a professional installer, as improper installation can weaken their structural integrity. Additionally, DIY installation of granite countertops may void any manufacturer warranties.
Prices can also vary greatly, depending on the origin and rarity of the granite. In some cases, buyers may be unable to verify the quality of the material used to fabricate the countertop since it may not be available in stores.
Finally, because granite is a natural stone, it may have imperfections in its pattern. These may include spots, veins and other irregular patterns that cannot be prevented or eliminated.
Is light or dark granite better?
When it comes to choosing between light and dark granite, there really is no definitive answer and the best option ultimately depends on your personal preference. Light granite tends to brighten a space and create a more open, airy feeling.
It is also easier to clean and maintain, since it won’t show smudging or spills as easily. On the other hand, darker-colored granite can make a bold statement and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space.
It also better hides the wear-and-tear that naturally occurs over time, which is one reason it is often used in kitchens and bathrooms. Ultimately, you should choose the color that best matches your room decor and home style.
What granite colors are outdated?
While granite can look timeless when paired with a fitting décor, some granite colors are unquestionably outdated and no longer in style. Colors to avoid include those with a streaky, busy pattern such as black, brown, and grey granites with multiple-fluctuating shades and blotches.
Often labeled “Cafe Brown” or “Tropical Brown”, this type of granite has fallen out of fashion as of late due to its dated look. Additionally, avoid overly-trendy colors like pink, blue, green, and oranges — as these colors can get dated rather quickly.
Lastly, skip the ornate stones like the Antique Labrador or Ubatuba, which may look beautiful but convey a ‘90s or early-2000s feel.
Is it better to have light or dark countertops?
The answer to this question really depends on your own personal preference. Both light and dark countertops have their benefits and drawbacks.
For light countertops, colors such as cream and white can open up a kitchen, giving it a bright and spacious feel. They also tend to be easier to maintain as they tend to show fewer stains and scratches.
However, they can be prone to fading, and the light color can make the kitchen look very uninteresting or bland.
For dark countertops, colors such as black and grey can give a very modern and luxurious look to any kitchen. They tend to hide scratches and stains better and don’t fade as easily as light colored countertops.
The downside is that they can close in the kitchen, make it look smaller, and require more frequent cleaning to keep it looking its best.
Overall, the best choice really comes down to personal preference and what type of environment you would like to achieve in your kitchen.
How do you pick a countertop color?
When it comes to choosing a countertop color, there are many factors to take into consideration. First, think about the overall mood and design of your kitchen. If you have a light, airy kitchen, white countertops may be the perfect complement, while dark countertops can add drama to a space with more neutral tones.
Consider your budget as well; granite countertops tend to be more expensive, but they also offer a classic look that will last for years. Depending on the type of material you choose, there may be a lot of variance within a color (such as many different shades of gray in marble, or flecks of gold in a granite countertop).
You should also consider how much natural light is in the kitchen, as this can affect how your countertop color appears; dark colors may make the room appear small or enclosed in a dark kitchen. Similarly, if the space is brightly lit, it might be better to pick a neutral or light-colored countertop, to ensure that its appearance doesn’t become overwhelming or washed out.
Overall, the best advice for selecting a countertop color is to look at a few samples in your kitchen, keeping any additional materials and finishes in mind, in order to choose a color that complements your space.
Should you seal black granite?
Yes, you should seal black granite. Granite is a natural stone product, meaning it is porous and prone to staining. Sealing a black granite surface helps to protect it from water and oil-based stains, and can make your granite countertops look more vibrant and last longer.
The sealant should be reapplied on a regular basis, usually every year or two. When applying the sealant, you should use a good quality sealant available from local home improvement stores. Make sure to thoroughly clean the countertop before applying the sealant, and make sure that the sealant has had time to fully dry before applying anything to the surface.
Why does my black granite look cloudy?
There could be a few reasons why your black granite looks cloudy; it could be due to a few different factors. First, it is possible that your granite has etching, which is caused when acidic substances come into contact with the stone.
This could be caused by using acidic cleaning solutions, juices, and even condensation from certain items such as pots and pans. It can also be caused by other substances that can be present in the water you use to clean the granite, such as soap, detergent, or minerals.
Another potential cause is that the sealant on your granite may have worn off. Granite should be re-sealed every year to maintain the finish and keep it protected from wear and tear. If the sealant is not properly maintained, it can cause the stone to become dull and appear cloudy.
Lastly, your granite may have scratches or other minor nicks on the surface. These can cause a diffusion of light, making the stone appear to have a cloudy or hazy appearance.
In general, it is important to have your granite checked by a professional to determine the cause and proper solution for your cloudy looking granite. They will be able to give you the best advice on how to bring back the original shine and luster of your stone.
How do you get a stain out of black granite?
Removing a stain from black granite depends on the type of stain. Hopefully, you have caught the stain before it has time to soak in. It is best to address stain removal sooner rather than later.
For liquid spills, dab a cloth in hydrogen peroxide or use a paste made from baking soda and water to gently scrub the surface. Be sure to move in the direction of the granite’s grain to avoid scratching the surface.
For oil-based spills, spray on some cooking oil and use a towel to massage the area. The oil should help to break down the stain and draw it out. Afterward, use a solution of warm water and mild dish soap to wash away excess oil.
For more stubborn stains, it is best to seek services from a professional stone restoration specialist. They will have the right tools and expertise to remove stubborn stains without damaging the integrity of the stone.
Many professional stone cleaning services also use eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
How do I keep my granite from staining?
Keeping your granite from staining is incredibly important if you want it to last for years. There are several steps you can take to make sure your granite stays in great condition.
First, it is essential that you seal your granite regularly. Sealing granite acts as a barrier that prevents liquid and particles from getting in. This means that spills – like oil, juice, and wine – will not be absorbed and will remain on the surface, making it much easier to clean.
Make sure to use a sealer specifically designed for granite, and apply every six to 12 months to ensure it stays in good condition.
Second, it is important to clean up spills immediately. When something spills on your granite, make sure to wipe it up as soon as possible to keep it from seeping into the stone and staining. This also means not leaving anything on the granite, like damp dishtowels or wet food, for long periods of time.
To clean your granite, use a pH neutral cleaner, like a combination of dish soap, water, and white vinegar, to avoid any damage to the surface.
Finally, preventative measures can go a long way when it comes to keeping your granite stain-free. Use coasters or mats under any items that could potentially spill, such as coffee mugs, juice glasses, and bottles of wine.
Additionally, make sure to clean the surface of your granite with a soft cloth and warm water at least once a week to get rid of any dirt and oils that could cause staining.
By following these steps, you can keep your granite looking like new for many years to come.