The first questions you must ask yourself, is; what is the ultimate reason I am considering installing stone countertops such as granite or quartz? It all depends on your lifestyle, and what value you plan to receive out of this upgrade. Some questions we will answer today to help you decide: How long are you planning on living in your current house? What is your budget? and What style or look will fit the rest of your home?
How long are you planning on living in your current house?
If you ask any real estate agent which room in your home will have the biggest effect on the resale value of your home, everyone will agree it’s the kitchen. The most value comes from the kitchen, and a prospective buyer will most likely spend the majority of his/her time judging the kitchen over any other room in the house. Point being if you are planning on selling your home in the near future any investment you make in the kitchen will most likely be worth the cost. Although granite or quartz counters are an expensive investment upfront they will be the tipping point for a prospective buyer. Not only do stone kitchen counters add monetary value but also boost the appeal of your home.
What if you are not planning on selling your house?
Monetary gains are not a priority for you since you are not planning on selling your home any time soon. Stone counters still increase the visual appeal of your home for you and your guests as well as require very little upkeep and maintenance. Stone is considered to last a lifetime and with proper care will prove to do so. In the long run, saving yourself the headache and opting in for elegant natural stone materials may be the best way to go. Bottom line: investing in stone countertops in one way or another will pay off in the long run (no matter which route you go).
What is your budget?
Stone is definitely not a cheap material. Cost for granite can range from $25 to $125 per square foot. There are different grades of granite that determine not only the price but the quality of the stone and how durable it is. Higher grades are not only finer quality but are also rare in appearance, with uncommon coloring, patterns and design. Determine which grade of granite or which type of quartz is right for you, and shop around. Prices vary by vendor and fabricator, in order to get the best rate get multiple estimates and pick the one that you think will be the best value (not always necessarily the lowest cost).
What style or look will fit the rest of your home?
You must know your style, and know which colors will fit the current theme of your kitchen. Consult a designer or professional for design advice but as a general rule make sure to use contrasting colors. If the rest of your home and kitchen boasts light colors you should consider a darker colored counter and vice versa. Granite comes in so many different colors you nearly have limitless possibilities. Quartz being an engineered stone also can be made in any color. Explore the wide variety of edges as well. There are many decorative stone edges that add to the effect just as much as a color or design would.
But Do you really need stone countertops?
This is something everyone should ask themselves. After answering the above four, do you still think that stone counters are right for you? It all comes down to how elegant you really want your kitchen to be, and if you have a clear goal in mind with what you want to achieve with your investment. Either increasing the value of your home or creating a great atmosphere to grow your family, it all depends on you. It's your choice!
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