Riding a wave of popularity for the last several years as the surface for countertops, granite is available in several grades, generally 1 through 5 (ratings depend on where you buy it), patterns, colors and thicknesses. Depending on what you choose, a slab can cost you anywhere from $25 per square foot for modular pieces of very basic stone purchased at a home center to upwards of $1,000 per square foot. Thickness can really drive up the cost. If you want granite on a budget, you might consider a three-quarter-inch thick slab rather than an inch-and-a-half slab, where you’re more likely to get your money back at resale.
Pros
- Dramatic, high-status countertop option and tends to improve home resale value
- Hard surface is both heat- and scratch-resistant
- Low-maintenance
- A natural material with timeless appeal
Cons
- As a porous material, granite must be sealed occasionally to maintain its surface
- Expensive
- Inproper sealing can allow permanent stains