Beautiful, durable and easy to clean, granite countertops are a popular choice for Minnesota homeowners who are renovating their bathrooms. However, the overwhelming popularity of granite countertops in MN has led to an explosion of color, pattern and finish choices for consumers, meaning choosing the perfect piece of stone can be an overwhelming task. If you’re having trouble wading through granite choices, here are some practical tips to help you make a decision.
Avoid Honed Finishes
Honed finishes are flatter and more matte than the polished stone finishes you’re probably familiar with, and they are becoming very popular with designers and consumers alike. Although a honed finish may be one of the latest trends in granite, it’s not usually a wise choice for the bathroom. Why? Honed finishes are notorious for making fingerprints, spills and water spots much more noticeable. Unless you’re willing to commit to more frequent cleaning, opt for forgiving polished finishes instead.
The Right Pattern Can Help Hide Messes
In the bathroom, splatters from toothpaste, soap and styling products are always a concern. Finding granite countertops in MN that features a pattern rather than a solid color can help camouflage these everyday messes. For the most low-maintenance counters, look for light or neutral-hued granite in a veined or speckled pattern. Be aware, however, that heavily veined granite is typically not as strong as solid-colored granite.
Shape Matters
When choosing your granite countertops, you’ll have to decide which edge style is right for you. This can be confusing because granite manufacturers are offering more choices than ever before. To make the right choice, think about how eye-catching you want your bathroom vanity to be. If you want it to be the center of attention, a mitered or beveled edge can turn your countertops into a bathroom focal point. To let other architectural features or accessories in the bathroom shine, opt for a simple squared edge or a bull-nose edge.
Add Some Contrast
For a visually appealing look, it’s important to provide a little contrast between your bathroom counters and any cabinetry. For example, a dark mahogany medicine cabinet will look best with granite counters in a lighter hue. Avoid matching counters and cabinets too closely–the resulting look will be sterile and drab.
Finding the right granite for your bathroom can be a challenge. For more style ideas and expert help, visit Granite Unlimited, Inc.
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