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Granite Countertops

Are you currently busy equipping your new home or refurbishing the one you already have? Do you need an elegant, safe, and durable countertop for your kitchen or bathroom? Granite countertops could be the perfect solution for you.

U&K Cabinets is one the top providers of granite countertops in the Chicago area.

With more than 140 different finishes and colors of granite countertops in our product range, we are certain that we can offer you a solution you will love. We offer a free design service that comprehends full kitchen or bathroom design. Our solutions are affordable without compromising high quality.

Absolute Black Granite

African Rainbow Granite

Agatha Black Granite

Alaska White Granite

Almond Gold Granite

Alpine White Granite

Alps White Granite

Amarello Ornamental Granite

Amber Yellow Granite

Andino White Granite

Antico Cream Granite

Aspen White Granite

Bianco Frost Granite

Bianco Antico Granite

Baltic Brown Granite

Azurite Granite

Azul Platino Granite

Aura Sands Granite

Aura Ice Dunes Granite

Astoria Granite

Bianco Romano Granite

Bianco Taupe Granite

Biscotti White Granite

Black Forest Granite

Black Galaxy Granite

Black Pearl Brushed Granite

Black Pearl Granite

Black Space Granite

Brown Antique Granite

Bohemian Gray Granite

Blue Pearl Granite

Blue Flowers Granite

Blue Flower Granite

Blue Bahia Granite

Blizzard Granite

Blanco Tulum Granite

Cafe Latte Granite

Caledonia Granite

Caravelas Gold Granite

Coffee Brown Granite

Colonial Gold Granite

Colonial White Granite

Copenhagen Granite

Costa Esmeralda Granite

Crema Caramel Granite

Cygnus Granite

Delicatus White Granite

Desert Beach Granite

Desert Dream Granite

Fusion Granite

Ganache Granite

Giallo Fantasia Granite

Discover the Elegance and Functionality of Granite Countertops for Your Home

Beautiful and timeless, granite countertops combine elegance and functionality, which is why they are so popular among homeowners. Equally suitable for both kitchen and bathroom, granite countertops add a touch of luxury to any space.

Granite’s natural beauty presents itself in various unique patterns and colors, making selecting the right countertop for your Chicago home easy. Granite’s natural craftsmanship enhances the decor of every home. Granite countertops are also highly resistant to scratches and stains and practically indestructible. They are also easy to clean and maintain. A granite countertop is a long-term investment with countless benefits and is, therefore, one of the most popular solutions in modern home design.

Selecting Granite Countertops for Your Chicago Kitchen

When choosing the right countertop for your Chicago kitchen, you need a material that will last you long and not demand constant repairs or additional investments. Another thing you probably consider essential is the look. Last but not least, the price. Granite countertops cover all these needs for you. They are also highly durable, and with the proper maintenance, they will last you a lifetime, even for several generations. As such, they represent a high-value item that elevates every home.

When it comes to day-to-day use, once you have tried a granite countertop, you will never consider anything else. They are stain and heat-resistant and provide a smooth working area for your daily kitchen creations. Meal preparation will become a delight on one of our fantastic granite countertops for your Chicago home.

Remember that every granite slab is unique with its pattern and color, providing you with exquisite kitchen furniture for generations to come. Pick the one you like best from our product range’s many patterns and colors.

Bathroom Granite Countertops: Elevating Your Chicago Home

If you want your bathroom to be as timeless as your kitchen, we recommend using granite. In addition to its timeless beauty, heat resistance, and high durability, granite is water resistant when properly sealed.

To keep the granite in your bathroom pristine, clean it regularly with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water. Avoid using harsh, acidic cleaning products. It also needs to dry thoroughly after each cleaning and wetting. Use coasters under toiletries and mats near sinks and shower areas. This way, your granite countertop will last a lifetime.

Cost Considerations for Granite Countertops in Chicago

In addition to being everlasting and providing a slick look to your home, granite countertops can also be quite affordable. U&K Cabinets offers you a wide range of prices, and we can find a solution that fits every budget.

The price of granite countertops in the Chicago area ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot. There are many factors affecting this price, and here are some of them:

Granite quality and rarity: The rarer your preferred granite is, the more expensive it will be. The location where granite is sourced also affects the price.
Thickness: Thicker granite slabs are more expensive.
Finish and edging: There is a wide variety of finishes (polished, honed, leathered, etc.) and edging, which affects the price.
Installation costs.
Size and complexity of the project: While size is an obvious factor, design can be even bigger—the more unusual and intricate the design, the higher the cost.

Cost-Effective Granite Countertops in Chicago

Customers often wonder if granite is a better choice than quartz. Ultimately, the choice depends on your style and budget. Both materials are highly durable and scratch and stain-resistant.

The average price of granite ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot, with variations based on quality and rarity, while quartz typically costs between $50 and $120 per square foot. There are some differences when it comes to long-term maintenance. As previously explained, granite requires annual or bi-annual sealing, while quartz does not.

Granite is, however, more heat-resistant and provides a broader range of colors and patterns, with each slab being unique.

Granite countertops offer a reliable, long-term investment and excellent value for money.

Exploring Color Options for Granite Countertops

Our exquisite granite countertops come in various colors and finishes, suitable for every budget and taste. We will find the perfect solution if you prefer a demure Ivory Fantasy, a dramatic Giallo Fiesta, or a grainy or silky smooth surface.

Consider what kind of effect you wish to accomplish with your color and design choices. If you like a traditional, earthy look for your kitchen, we can provide you with a wide range of cream-colored and sandy granite countertops, such as Colonial White or Sienna Beige. On the other hand, Costa Esmeralda or Sunset Canyon could be the right choice if you like more colors in your kitchen, such as pink or green, which are currently all the rage.

Each of our lovely colored granites comes in your choice of finish, whether polished, honed, leathered, or something more unconventional.

Popular Granite Colors for Chicago Homes

Even though any of our elegant granite countertops would add a dash of luxury to your Chicago home, some timeless classics always remain the most popular.

All-black kitchens are the latest trend, and should you decide to go this way, you should need a black granite countertop. Whether you prefer a simple Absolute Black or a more textured Black Space, we can find something in our product range to suit you. A black granite countertop is always practical and, in addition, highly durable and easy to clean.

If you, on the other hand, prefer a black-and-white or all-white kitchen, we also have many divine pieces of white granite that might suit your needs, such as pristine Biscotti White or a more exciting Caffe Latte.

Another popular choice is gray. A gray kitchen might seem dull, but never fear—you only need to combine it with a couple of more colorful highlights or an intricate pattern or design. However, a gray granite countertop is never dull in itself; quite the contrary, they come in a wide variety of patterns, and each slab is unique. From the demure Gray Mist to the dramatic Gray Nuevo, our specter of gray granite holds something for everyone.

Proper Care for Granite Countertops in Chicago

Granite is a natural igneous rock that is virtually indestructible and very easy to maintain. Just wash it regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Granite also needs annual or bi-annual sealing to ensure its durability. Here are some common mistakes that you need to avoid while maintaining your granite countertop:

Using harsh cleaning chemicals. It is unnecessary and can damage the material.
Do not wipe spills immediately. Granite is a naturally porous material that can absorb liquids if improperly sealed. If spills, especially of acidic substances like wine, coffee, or juice, are allowed to sit on the surface, this can lead to stains and etching. For the same reason, it is advisable to always use coasters and mats on all granite surfaces.
Do not use sharp tools directly on the surface. Do not cut food directly on your granite countertop or use other sharp tools. Granite is highly durable but can be chipped if exposed to sharp objects.
Putting hot items directly on the surface. Granite is heat resistant, but you should avoid placing hot pots or similar items directly on the granite countertop surface. You should use trivets or hot pads.

DIY Granite Countertop Installation: Is It Right for You?

When you decide to buy a granite countertop, you also have to count on some installation costs. However, you can do it in a few simple steps if you are handy. We have created a step-by-step guide that should be easy to follow.

Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Enthusiasts

Carefully measure your countertop space. Keep in mind the placement of sinks, stoves, and other fixtures.
Draw a detailed design or layout of your countertop layout.

Step 1

Plan and Measure

Choose a slab from U&K Cabinet’s wide product range. We can assist you with the selection and design. We also deliver the granite cut to your measurements, so you don’t have to do it yourself, which is difficult and dangerous.

Step 2

Select Suitable Granite Slabs

Clear the area of all unnecessary clutter, such as potential previously existing countertops.
Using a level, make sure all the cabinets are level and secure. If necessary, adjust them with shims.

Step 3

Prepare the Working Area

Put the granite slabs on the cabinets and check if they fit correctly.
If there are any gaps or uneven areas, make adjustments as needed.

Step 4

DryFit the Countertop

Apply silicone caulk or other adhesive on top of the cabinets where the countertop will sit, and carefully place the granite slabs on them.
Check if the slabs are level and properly aligned.

Step 5

Install the Countertop

Use epoxy to join any potential seams between the granite slabs.
Mix the epoxy according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the seam.
Hold the slabs together until the epoxy sets using clamps

Step 6

Join Seams

Once the granite has been placed, use a caulking gun to apply silicone caulk along the edges where the countertop meets the wall or backsplash.
Make sure the countertop is level and stable, using shims.

Step 7

Secure the Countertop

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install stove tops, sinks, and fixtures.

Step 8

Install the Sink and Other Fixtures

The granite is sealed using an approved granite sealer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to seal your granite countertop properly and ensure its longevity.

Step 4

Seal the Granite

Tools and Materials Needed

Your new granite countertop
Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Measuring tape
Level
Carpenter’s square
Silicone caulk
Shims
Adhesive for stone (epoxy or construction adhesive)
Painter’s tape
Utility knife
Caulking gun
Clamps
Sealer

Tips for a Successful DIY Project

Be Safe: Granite slabs are heavy and challenging to handle independently. Ensure you have help.
Be Precise: Your measurements must be accurate. Precise measurements and cuts are essential for a perfect fit.
Pick the Right Tools: Make sure your tools are suitable for working with granite.
Consult a Professional: At U&K Cabinets, we offer all kinds of assistance to create a perfect kitchen or bathroom.

The Importance of Sealing Granite Countertops

While maintaining granite countertops is easy, one still needs to remember that granite is a natural, porous rock and can suffer water damage. Therefore, it is essential to seal your granite countertop every two years, preferably annually.

Sealing your granite countertop is quite simple. Follow these instructions to do it yourself.

Clean the granite surface thoroughly with a soft cloth and pH-neutral soap. Let it dry completely.
Do a “water drop test”—sprinkle the surface with water. If the granite absorbs it, proceed with the sealing.
Apply the sealer using a cloth. Make sure you have covered all the areas evenly.
Let the sealer penetrate the granite for 15-30 minutes, and then wipe off excess and buff.
The sealer should cure for 24-48 hours before further use.
Reseal every 1-2 years or as needed, using a water drop test.
Always use coasters and mats to prolong the life of your granite countertop.

Comparing Quartz and Granite Countertops for Chicago Homes

Both quartz and granite are popular solutions for homeowners in the Chicago area. Both materials are highly durable and stain—and scratch-resistant. However, there are some key differences between them.

Quartz	Granite
Non-porous, no need for sealing.	A natural, porous stone, needs to be sealed regularly.
Can be quite pricey.	Wide range of prices, also comes in affordable varieties.
Uniform look.	Unique patterns in each slab.
Sensitive to heat.	Heat-resistant.
Low maintenance.	Maintenance is easy but requires regular sealing.

In the end, the choice you make depends on your personal aesthetic preferences and budget.

Maintenance Made Easy with Granite

Regular maintenance and sealing are necessary to ensure the longevity and durability of your granite countertop. It is, however, quite simple. Here are some tips:

Granite should be cleaned after use with a soft cloth, mild soap, and water. After wetting, it should be let dry completely.
Avoid harsh cleaning products such as vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia-based products.
Granite needs to be sealed every 1-2 years. You can test the seal by dripping water on the surface—if it beads up, it is still effective.
Spills must be wiped immediately, especially substances like toothpaste, perfumes, or hair dyes.
Use coasters under toiletries and dishes and mats near sinks and shower areas to protect granite from scratching and water damage.
Do not use sharp tools on any of your granite surfaces.

Environmental Benefits of Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural material that offers environmental benefits since it is durable and recyclable. Contemporary extraction and processing techniques rely on energy efficiency, and local sourcing lowers transportation emissions. Sustainable quarrying practices and low VOC emissions improve indoor air quality. Granite is resistant to stains and bacteria, reducing the use of harsh chemical cleaners and further reducing environmental impact. Moreover, granite is biodegradable and breaks down without releasing harmful substances.

Granite countertops are a solid, eco-friendly choice for a sustainable, long-lasting kitchen countertop.

Top Reasons to Choose Granite Countertops for Your Chicago Home

Making the right choice for your Chicago home is never easy, but we at U&K Cabinets strive to assist you. We offer a wide selection of eco-friendly, sustainable materials that will increase your home’s value. Granite is one such material since it is highly durable, heat, stain, and scratch resistant, and with proper maintenance will serve your family for generations to come. It is also stunningly beautiful, and each slab is unique. A granite countertop adds value to each home.

Should you have any further questions about granite types, design, installation, or anything else, we at U&K Cabinets will be happy to offer our expert advice.

Features

Durability

U&K Cabinets’ granite countertops are highly durable. Granite is an igneous rock which is naturally hard and resistant to scratches. It makes it most suitable for all high-traffic areas in your home, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Aesthetic Appeal

U&K Cabinets offers a wide range of granite countertop options. Each slab is unique, with distinct patterns and colors.

Heat Resistance

Granite is highly resistant to heat. This means that it is safe to place a hot pot or pan on your granite kitchen countertop and that it will not be damaged.

Low Maintenance

Granite countertops should be adequately maintained and sealed, but both are easy to do. When properly sealed, granite becomes non-porous, which prevents stains and bacterial growth.

Value Addition

A high-quality item such as a granite countertop can increase the value of a home. Granite, with its stunning patterns and colors, enriches every space.

Customization Options

Every home is unique, as is every granite slab. At U&K Cabinets, we offer full customization of granite countertops to suit your every need. These options allow you to tailor countertops to your specific design preferences and functional needs.

FAQs

Are granite countertops cheaper than quartz?

Yes, there are more affordable granite options than quartz.

How much does granite cost per square foot?

The average cost of granite in the Chicago area is 50$ to 100$ per square foot.

What is the Cost of Granite Countertops?

The cost of a granite countertop can vary significantly, depending on the quality and rarity of granite, size, design intricacy, and installation difficulty.

Which is better, quartz or granite?

Both materials have some pros and cons, as listed above. They are both highly durable, with quartz being more expensive and more sensitive to heat. Granite is resistant to heat and more affordable, but it requires regular maintenance, which incurs further costs.

Which granite is best for a countertop?

Granite is durable, heat, stain, and scratch resistant. It comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, and your choice depends on your aesthetic preferences.

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