With proper care, granite countertops can last 100 years or more—even in busy kitchens. The stone itself is extremely hard, but its longevity hinges on routine maintenance. Wipe up spills right away to avoid stains and reseal the surface once a year to keep moisture out. Those simple steps protect the finish and let the countertop stay both functional and attractive for decades.
Most granite countertop installations wrap up in a single day. A small vanity might take just a couple of hours, while a sprawling kitchen with multiple cut-outs or seams could stretch to eight hours. Timing depends on the layout’s size and complexity, plus any prep work like cabinet reinforcement or sink cut-outs. Experienced installers plan each step to keep your kitchen downtime to a minimum.
Granite isn’t your only stone choice. Marble delivers a classic, high-end look, while quartz blends natural stone with resins for extra strength and easy upkeep. Quartzite offers marble-like veining with granite-level durability, and soapstone brings a softer, matte finish that develops character over time. Consider how each material lines up with your style, maintenance goals, and budget before you decide.
Granite countertops can boost resale appeal and may recoup up to 25% of their installation cost when you sell. Buyers value their timeless style, durability, and low upkeep, so updated granite surfaces often stand out in listing photos and showings. Beyond potential return on investment (ROI), they refresh the kitchen’s look and signal that the space has been well cared for.
Quartz and granite are both tough, but they excel in different ways. Engineered quartz is non-porous, so it shrugs off spills and resists scratches from daily use, yet direct heat can damage its resins. Granite handles hot pans better but needs yearly sealing because it’s naturally porous. Choose quartz if you want nearly maintenance-free durability, or pick granite for a heat-friendly surface that rewards a little routine care.