The Environmental Impact of Granite Countertops

If you’re in the market for a new countertop, it’s important to consider its environmental impact. Then, you can make informed decisions that will benefit the environment while also saving you money.

Granite and quartz are naturally occurring stones that can be both environmentally friendly and affordable. But you’ll need to consider their environmental product declarations (EPD) to find out how they impact the environment throughout their lifespans.

1. Environmentally friendly

Granite is the ultimate eco-friendly surface. It lasts a lifetime without needing replacement and doesn’t require any chemicals to be kept clean, making it one of the most environmentally friendly materials available for your home.

Another stone that is a great choice for an eco-friendly granite countertop is quartz. It’s durable, scratch-resistant, and nonporous, which means it does not absorb liquids or stain easily.

It’s also available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find a look that fits your style. However, the downside of quartz is that it’s made from plastics that are not renewable resources and that have a high carbon cost.

It’s also important to consider how the product was made and who worked on it. Some quartz composites are sourced in countries where labor practices are unethical and workers often suffer from unsafe working conditions.

2. Low maintenance

Granite is one of the lowest-maintenance countertops, requiring only a simple cleaning solution and regular sealing to keep it looking new.

It is also extremely durable, resisting cuts and scratches and being less likely to chip than quartz. This makes it a smart choice for high-traffic areas in the kitchen or bathroom where food and liquids are often spilled.

It is also easy to clean, with a simple cleaner and soft cloth removing stains and dirt quickly and easily. However, it is important to keep granite clean by wiping away spills immediately and using a mild, pH neutral cleaner designed for granite rather than harsh all-purpose cleaners.

3. Versatile

If you’re looking for a countertop that’s both environmentally friendly and affordable, granite is a great choice. It’s not as expensive as marble or quartzite, and it comes in a huge variety of colors.

One of the most popular types of granite is white, which is easy to match with just about any decor. It can also be honed or polished for a different look, broadening its versatility even further.

Another popular choice is gray granite, which can be soft and smoky or tinged with green to give it an almost moss-like appearance.

These colors are particularly popular for kitchens with traditional design themes. However, they can work well with contemporary and rustic styles as well.

4. Sturdy

Granite is a hard, rock-hard material that is second only to diamonds in terms of its hardness. This makes it the perfect choice for kitchen countertops because it is extremely durable and doesn’t scratch easily.

In addition, granite is also resistant to heat, making it a great option for an outdoor kitchen countertop. It can even be used as a fireplace mantle or stair treads.

However, it is important to note that granite can be prone to staining from liquids, especially red wine, so you’ll need to regularly seal your granite counters with a good sealing product. If you are unable to do so, this can eventually lead to a deep stain on your granite that is very difficult to remove. Luckily, the sealing process is very easy for homeowners to do on their own.

5. Affordable

Granite countertops are a popular choice because they offer all the benefits of natural stone at an affordable price. They can range in price from $40 to $200 per square foot (including installation), and are a great option for anyone with a budget and a preference for the look of natural stone.

The type of finish you choose will also determine how much your counters will cost. The most common is polished, which offers a smooth surface that draws out the color and texture of the stone. This is also the least porous option, so spills are easier to clean up.