QA Granite Countertops
// September 27th, 2009 // House and Home
Deciding to remodel your home is a huge investment opportunity. But it is also one that can quickly find you delving deep into your pockets and bank account if you do not know what you are doing. One of the easiest ways to update the style of your home is to replace the countertops. A brand new granite countertop can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any kitchen or bathroom. But you have to be careful. Granite can be very expensive so you have to know what you are doing or you could find yourself in a very big mess. This article will cover many of the questions that can come up when you are working with or even considering using granite for your countertops. It can help guide you in the right direction when your home improvement project is ready to go.
Are granite countertops just for the kitchen?
Absolutely not, granite countertops can be found in the bathroom as well. Though they are not countertops, granite can be found around fireplaces or on the floor as tiles. A granite countertop in your bathroom will instantly add a touch of elegance and old world charm to any d?cor. Granite comes in such a wide variety of colors that you can find a color to match your existing cabinets quite easily. Most companies that specialize in granite will have a feature on their website that allows you to see the color of your cabinets against various granite samples.
Can I install my granite countertops myself?
Yes, you can install granite countertops yourself but only if you are experienced. Granite is very expensive and most countertops are made in one piece. If you do not have any remodeling experience and have measured wrong then your countertop is not going to fit correctly. That means you are out time and money for the countertop that does not fit. Since you are working with such an expensive material it is always better to let an expert measure and install the countertops. You can always be there to watch and learn but let the experts handle it just to make sure you get what you want in the end. Plus you will save yourself a lot of hassle by letting them do it. It might cost you a bit more as far as money is concerned but you will save time and energy.
Are there health concerns about granite countertops?
You may not think that granite countertops could pose a health risk but there has been some recent concern. In 2008 the New York Times published an article that detailed the experiences of one woman and a routine home inspection. Her home was showing elevated levels of radon gas. The technician scoured the house only to find out that it was coming from the granite countertop in her kitchen. She got rid of the countertops immediately and had them sent in for testing. Much to her surprise the Department of Health found high levels of uranium. As uranium decays one of the byproducts is radon gas. Her countertops were emitting radiation at ten times the levels found in other parts of her home. Manufacturers say that the levels are very minimal and some experts are agreeing. It really depends on the type of granite and where it is found naturally as to whether or not the countertops will emit higher levels of radiation. For those that are worried, a simple test by a qualified technician can eliminate some questions as to whether or not their granite floors or countertops are unsafe.
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