1¼ inch is our standard and the better choice for several reasons. The extra thickness provides superior structural integrity, eliminating the need for plywood underlayment that 3/4 inch granite requires. This means fewer materials, cleaner installation, and better long-term performance.

1¼ inch granite also allows for more sophisticated edge treatments like bullnose, ogee, or custom profiles that simply aren’t possible with thinner material. The additional mass provides better vibration dampening, so your countertops feel more solid and substantial.

While 3/4 inch granite costs less initially, the hidden costs of additional support materials and more complex installation often narrow the price gap significantly. For the small difference in total project cost, 1¼ inch granite delivers noticeably better performance and aesthetics.

No—this is one of the most common misconceptions about granite. Most properly sealed granite only needs resealing every 1 – 3 years, and some dense granites can go even longer.

The key is understanding that different granite types have different porosity levels. Dense granites like Absolute Black or Steel Gray may only need resealing every 3 – 5 years, while more porous varieties might need attention every 12 – 18 months.

Use the simple water test: drop a few drops of water on your granite. If it beads up and stays on the surface, your sealer is working fine. If the water is absorbed within 15 minutes, it’s time to reseal. This test takes the guesswork out of maintenance scheduling.

Professional-grade sealers applied during installation typically last much longer than consumer products, which is why we ensure every installation includes proper sealing with commercial-grade materials.

This depends on your island size and granite selection, but skilled fabricators can make seams nearly invisible when they’re necessary.

Most granite slabs are approximately 9 – 10 feet long and 5-6 feet wide, so islands longer than about 8 feet will likely require a seam. However, experienced fabricators like our partners at Spectrum Stone Designs plan seam placement strategically, often locating them where they’ll be least noticeable, such as in front of a sink or cooktop.

The key to invisible seams is color matching and proper alignment. Fabricators select parts of the slab with similar patterns and use color-matched epoxy to fill the joint. When done properly, you’ll have to look carefully to spot the seam.

Some granite patterns actually hide seams better than others. Busy patterns with lots of movement mask seam lines, while solid colors or uniform patterns make seams more noticeable. This is something to discuss during slab selection.

Quality granite, properly installed, rarely develops cracks during normal use. Granite is incredibly durable – it’s the same material used in building construction and monuments that last centuries.

What homeowners sometimes mistake for cracks are usually natural fissures that were present in the original stone. These fissures are part of granite’s natural character and don’t affect structural integrity. They’re different from cracks in that they don’t go completely through the stone and aren’t sharp to the touch.

True cracks typically result from improper installation—inadequate support, uneven cabinets, or impact damage during installation. This is why choosing experienced fabricators and installers is crucial. Our partnership with Spectrum Stone Designs ensures proper installation techniques that prevent these issues.

The most vulnerable areas are around sink cutouts and overhangs, which is why proper templating and support are essential. With correct installation, granite countertops regularly last 20+ years without any cracking issues.

Absolutely. When properly sealed and cleaned, granite is actually more hygienic than many other common kitchen surfaces, including some cutting boards and butcher blocks.

Sealed granite is non-porous, which means bacteria, mold, and other contaminants can’t penetrate the surface. Regular cleaning with soap and water easily removes surface bacteria. Unlike wood or some synthetic materials, granite doesn’t develop knife cuts that can harbor bacteria.

The key is maintaining the seal and cleaning properly. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the sealer. Simple dish soap and water handle daily cleaning, with occasional use of stone-specific cleaners for deeper cleaning.

Some people worry about granite’s natural radioactivity, but independent testing consistently shows that typical countertop levels are comparable to background radiation in most homes – far below any health concern thresholds established by the EPA.

Eased edges (slightly rounded) dominate current preferences for their clean, contemporary look and practical benefits. This simple profile works with both traditional and modern kitchen designs while being easy to clean and maintain.

The trend toward eased edges reflects the broader movement toward cleaner, more minimalist kitchen designs. Unlike ornate profiles, eased edges don’t collect dust or grease in detailed grooves, making them more hygienic and easier to maintain.

Bullnose edges (fully rounded) remain popular for families with small children, as they eliminate sharp corners. They’re particularly common on islands where people gather and work.

Ogee and other decorative profiles are less common now but still have their place in traditional or formal kitchen designs. These profiles can add elegance but require more careful cleaning and are more expensive to fabricate.

The choice often comes down to your kitchen’s style and how you use the space. We can show you samples of different edge profiles during the selection process to help you choose what works best for your family and design preferences.