Choosing the Right Granite Slab for Your Countertops: Tips and FAQs

When it comes to granite countertops, choosing the right slab isn't always a straightforward decision. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:

1. Understanding the Slab Selection Process

In some cases, you can choose the specific slab for your countertops, but in others, you may not have that luxury. Let's break it down:

When You Can Choose the Slab

Some fabricators allow you to see and select the exact slab from the available inventory, ensuring a seamless and consistent look for your countertops. Others may opt for a slab that is larger and has a specific veining pattern to avoid a visible seam, allowing you to have a cohesive and professional finish.

For example, we chose Butterfly Beige and visited the slab to ensure we liked the color before the fabrication process. We focused on the consistency of the color and were less concerned about the variability in a single slab. We used the rule: if the fabricator wouldn't put a particular slab in their house, they wouldn't put it in ours.

When You Can't Choose the Slab

In some cases, specially selected materials may be from inventory and not allow for slab selection. Other times, the material may need to be shipped from a warehouse where you cannot physically inspect the slab, relying instead on photos or other documentation.

When Slab Selection is Optional

For materials that are uniform and do not have a significant veining pattern, slab selection may not have a significant impact on the final result.

Should Granite Be Sealed?

While granite is a beautiful, natural material, it does have its drawbacks. It's important to understand that sealing is a crucial step to protect your countertop. Here’s why:

Why Sealing Is Necessary

Granite is a natural stone that contains tiny imperfections and pores. These pores can absorb various liquids and oils, leading to stains and damage. Sealing the granite creates a protective barrier between the surface and any liquids or oils that may come into contact with it.

How to Seal Granite

Regular Sealing: Most granite countertops require reapplication of the sealer annually. It's a good idea to check the manufacturer's recommendations and follow them meticulously. Continuous Sealing: Some homeowners prefer to use a daily cleaner-sealer product, such as the one we use, which helps to protect the granite and maintain its appearance without requiring significant reapplication.

It's worth noting that not all materials benefit from sealing. Solid surface and quartz countertops are typically made from a blend of plastic resins and polymers, which naturally act as a sealer. However, these surfaces can still harbor bacteria, and the injection of bacteria-killing chemicals further reinforces their protective qualities.

Granite Color Search

To help you find the perfect color for your granite countertops, we have launched a new color search application on our website. Check it out and explore the vast variety of granite colors available to complement your home design.

Granite Color Search Features

Interactive Visualization: Our color search tool allows you to visualize different granite colors in your space, helping you make the best decision. Fabrication Expertise: Our team of fabrication experts can advise you on the best slab selection based on your specific needs and preferences. Customer Reviews: Read through customer reviews to gain insights from those who have gone through the process themselves.

By understanding the process and the importance of sealing, you can ensure that your granite countertops look their best for years to come. Happy selecting and sealing!