Granite is a type of igneous rock that is formed from the slow crystallization of magma below the earth’s surface. Granite is made of several types of minerals including quartz and feldspar. The composition of these minerals is what gives granite the white, pink, red or gray coloring that you often see in countertops and tiles.
Granite countertops have been all the rage for nearly a century. Although granite did not gain popularity to the average person until the 1970s, it has been something people have been yearning for in their homes for quite some time. Granite has a timeless look that people have admired for decades and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
There is a reason slab granite has been the most popular type of countertop for years. When you choose slab granite, rather than tile or modular, you are getting countertops customized and cut from a single piece of natural stone. When granite is cut from a single slab, there will be a much greater color consistency.
Even if you have a large space and need more than one slab, which will result in having a seam or two, the color and flow of materials will be unchanging. Because you are choosing a large piece of granite, you will have more choices in color and texture than you would with a premade piece like modular granite.
Related: Granite Tiles | Modular Granite | Natural Granite Cleaners | Kitchen with Black Granite Countertops | Granite Cutting Tools
What is Slab Granite?
Granite can be hard to identify in today’s world given the realistic type of man-made option that can now be found. Granite is a type of rock made up of volcanic magma that heats and cools giving it the hardness that it is known for. The color of granite differs based on the minerals that are found in a specific slab.
Unlike man-made countertops that are created to replicate granite, you will see randomly placed and unevenly sized crystals in each slab. In faux granite, the pieces will not be placed randomly and will have a more engineered look. Unlike marble and other materials, granite does not generally have any type of veining.
Benefits of Slab Granite
Slab granite has arguably been the most popular choice amongst types of granite. With the wide array of choices you have when taking directly from the stone itself, more people gravitate towards it. You can also choose from various levels of granite. There are three levels when it comes to slab granite: level one— low-grade granite, level two— mid-grade granite, and level three— high-grade granite.
Unlike modular granite or granite tiles, you will have a seamless look for any type of countertop you need. A seamless piece of granite brings many benefits, including look and ease of cleaning. With tiles and modular granite, you will have various seams that make it harder to keep your countertops clean.
Slab granite generally lasts a lifetime. Because granite is such a sturdy and hard material it resists normal wear and tear, including scratches and stains. Granite is tougher than most other countertop options which is one of the reasons it is so popular. If you happen to cut directly on your granite, although it is not suggested, it will be more likely to hurt your knives than it will your granite.
Disadvantages
Out of all the types of granite, slab granite is the most expensive. Slab granite generally ranges from $80 to $150 per square foot, without the cost of installation. Modular granite, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $25 to $80 per square foot. Granite tiles are the least expensive and cost $5 to $15 per square foot.
The cost of installation for slab granite is quite a bit higher than the other two types of granite as well. The national average for installing granite countertops is a little under $3,000. Most people can expect to pay anywhere from $1,800 to $4,000 depending on the type of granite, size of the project, and where you are located.
Another disadvantage of installing slab granite is that unless you are a professional, you will not be able to install it yourself. Slab granite countertops can weigh anywhere from 13 to 30 lbs per square foot, making it dangerous to install on your own. With natural stone like granite, the weight of the material will need to be properly supported to ensure no damage is done to your cabinets. That is what it is essential to hire a professional when granite slabs are being installed.
All In All
All in all, granite slabs will most likely remain the best option for homeowners for various reasons. First and foremost, you will get the most bang for your buck. Slab granite is generally people’s first choice when it comes to countertops.
You will also have a seamless and timeless look in your home that you can enjoy for a lifetime. Although it is more expensive than other options, you will get an amazing return on your investment if you ever choose to sell your home. If you plan to sell, stick to neutrals as it is most people’s preference.
Where to Buy Slab Granite
- Granite Countertops, helps connect you to local professionals who can help you pick out your granite.
- Keystone Granite and Tile, is a national retailer that offers a wide array of granite options.
- Marble Warehouse sells various types of granite with different options for color and texture.
