Granite countertops are a favorite of homeowners because of their durability, relatively low maintenance, and beauty. They’re an investment that will appeal to potential buyers if you sell your house. However, no two slabs of this stone are alike, so you need to avoid common pitfalls when making a selection and having it installed.

3 Granite Countertop Mistakes to Avoid

1. Putting Too Much Emphasis on Thickness

Granite countertops typically are available in two thicknesses: three-fourths of an inch and 1¼. Thinner slabs usually are cheaper because they have less material. If you want a thicker countertop, you might need to purchase two slabs and have your contractor glue them together. This not only would be more expensive but detrimental to the appearance of your counters.

2. Valuing Appearance Over Durability

The color of your granite is important to your kitchen’s aesthetic, but not to the point where you should sacrifice quality. Light-color options might have an attractive appearance, but they’re more susceptible to staining because of their porous nature. Darker granite is ideal because it can hide stains better and requires less upkeep.

3. Using a Top-Mounted Sink With Your Granite Countertops

If you have a top-mounted sink, you might think you can save money by reusing it with your new countertops. However, this style is not compatible with granite. It ruins the sleek look of the stone surface and makes counters harder to clean. This fixture also is a magnet for food debris, dirt, and bacteria. Opt for an under-mounted sink to make your granite countertops look and perform best.

If you live on the island of Hawaii, you’ll find the perfect granite for your kitchen at Big Island Countertops. With locations in Kailua-Kona and Hilo, this premier company also provides residents with a broad range of other countertop options, including quartz, Corian®, and laminate. To speak with a specialist about granite countertops, call their Hilo location at (808) 961-6633 or their Kailua-Kona location at (808) 326-2822. Visit their website for more information about their services and check their Yelp page to learn what customers are saying about the business.