{Tips from the Trades} Choosing Granite Countertops

While it's fun to be an interior designer, and it's always rewarding to show off those amazing "after" shots, there are a ton of decisions that are made to get from Point A to Point B. It's not always a glamorous life, and I certainly don't just order it up and watch someone else do the work. I'm usually in the trenches with my level, hammer and toolbox(super stylish tool box - a girl still needs to keep her style going).

In this series, I'm going to share with you some "tips from the trades". It will include the ins and outs of making big decisions. From choosing granite countertops, to hanging a picture, I'll give you my best words of wisdom gained through years of learning on my own. Basically, I'm gonna take 13 years of on-the-job training, and give it to you straight.

Off we go...

Choosing Granite Countertops - What to Look For, and What to AskSo you have decided to go with granite for your new or remodeled kitchen or bathroom. You have found a potential granite warehouse and installer, and you are headed off to choose the perfect color. What are some questions you should ask when you arrive?

1. What colors are standard and which ones are upgrades? Most granite warehouses have their standard colors that they stock and will give you great pricing on, so make sure you ask to see slabs that fit in your budget. Key word here is BUDGET - let them know where you are at so you don't fall in love with something you can't afford. 

1. Do you include a backsplash? If you are not doing a tile backsplash, you should be sure to order at least a 4 inch backsplash for the perimeter of the kitchen or bathroom cabinets. If you are doing a tile backsplash, you can choose to install the 4 inch backsplash, or just tile down to the countertop. 

1. How often should I seal the granite? Some granite companies will seal your granite when needed for the lifetime of the countertop as part of their package, so be sure to clarify what services they include and which ones they do not. Ideally, they are offering you a 15 -year sealer so you won't have to worry about it for years to come.

1. Will you tag the slabs that I am choosing today? Once you solidify your selections, make sure that they tag the slabs that you have chosen. Many slabs have the same name but will have a different tone to them based on the shipment and location they were mined from. Have the representative tag the slabs that you have chosen so ensure that you get the stone you are seeing. Take a picture of them before you leave so you can avoid a dispute later. 

1. Can I come back and layout my slabs after you measure? Once your cabinets are installed, the granite fabricator will come out and do a detailed measure. You should absolutely go to the granite warehouse at this point and give some input on the layout of your stone. Look for unappealing lines/colors in the stone, or imperfections that may not look good if they were placed in the center of your island. Your representative should be able to draw your dimensions on the slabs to ensure that you have a proper layout to maximize the look of your kitchen.

Red Flags: 

• - If the installer shows up at your house with a truck full of slabs, and gets ready to cut your granite, that is a BAD BAD SIGN. Tell them to back it up and try again. In all seriousness, choose a fabricator that will do the work at their warehouse, and provide you with professional seams and finishing. 

• - Add-on costs: Watch those pesky add-ons - cutting holes for the sink and faucet, edge upgrades, and existing countertop removal to name a few. 

Tips:

• - If you are doing a bathroom, bring your tile and cabinet samples with you. This will help you narrow down the choices from 100 to 10.   For kitchens, bring cabinet samples and paint colors. 

• - Take a sample home with you. Just because it looks good in the warehouse lighting does not mean it will work for your home or lighting. 

• - Watch those dark colors. If you are OCD about fingerprints (yep, that's me), go for the lighter colors. I have to follow my husband around with the Sparkle and towel should he DARE to put his hand on the countertop. 

• - Ask them about new finishes. Some new cool trends are honed (less shiny), leathered (no shine and leathery feel), or acid washed (a rough stone feel). 

Be sure to get references and ask to see some previous work as granite can be troublesome if not installed and sealed properly. Ask the right questions so you can make informed decisions.
Questions? Just ask in the comments - I'm happy to help!

Sweet Design Dreams:)
White Street Market