Natural Granite vs. Engineered Granite: Which One is Right for Your Kitchen Countertops?

As one of the centerpiece items of your kitchen, your countertops are vital to both the look and usability of this all-important room on a daily basis. Because of this fact, kitchen countertops are often one of the first things a homeowner wants to discuss when getting an estimate from their Baltimore kitchen contractor. And while there are many kitchen countertop surfaces available to choose from, one has emerged over the past decade as the clear frontrunner. This surface is granite, and there are countless reasons why it is so popular, starting with its gorgeous modern look, and continuing through its incredible durability.

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If you have decided to renovate your kitchen countertops using granite, you will certainly be happy with the decision. But don’t jump right into colors and patterns just yet. There is still another major choice that you will have to make in order for your Baltimore kitchen contractor to get started. That choice is whether to renovate your kitchen countertops with natural granite or engineered granite. Each has its own advantages that may fit your needs depending on your circumstances. Here is some more information about each that will help educate you so you can make the right decision and choose which granite countertop surface is right for your particular home.

Natural Granite

Natural granite is the most popular countertop surface on the market today. If your friends or neighbors have granite countertops, it’s a good bet that they are natural. Their smooth, modern look really highlights your kitchen, making it feel like a room you want to spend time in. And with many color options to choose from, natural granite countertops are a perfect choice if you are having your Baltimore kitchen contractor renovate the entire room, or if you just want to change out your countertops and have them fit your kitchen’s existing design. Another great thing about natural granite countertops is their strength and durability. They are very difficult to chip or scratch, and can withstand both hot and cold extreme temperatures. Simply put, natural granite is a perfect choice for almost any home remodeling project.

Engineered Granite

As another great kitchen countertop option, engineered granite offers many of the same advantages as natural granite. It is manufactured from gorgeous crushed stones such as quartz, which mimic the look of natural granite quite well. Engineered countertops are available in plenty of color patterns to fit your style taste, and the fact that they are actually manufactured means that there are no flaws or cracks that may be hiding below the surface in natural stone countertops. One disadvantage of these engineered countertops is that they are just a bit more expensive than their natural counterparts. But the money is well spent, because engineered countertops are more durable and last longer. That’s because engineered granite is less porous, which results in a harder and more flexible surface with an even greater resistance to scratches and stains. They are also more resistant to mold and mildew than natural granite countertops, which makes them easier to clean and maintain.

Both natural granite and engineered granite countertops are great options for your home. To learn more about which one is right for you, or to get a free estimate on your specific project, please contact the experienced team at Aspect Contracting here.