veGranite countertops are amazing and all that, but there are many levels of granite. So, you need to know which level or grade to buy if you want slabs that will last you a decent amount of time. Follow below to know about the grades of granite kitchen countertops.
How Is Granite Graded?
Yes, granite is available in a lot of levels and grades, but have you ever wondered, how they are rated in the first place?
Well, there are a couple of considerations that go into grading granite countertops. Firstly, they’re graded based on their strength. Granite is already strong, but as the levels increase, so does the strength of the rock.
The second thing that is factored in when grading of granite is done, is the porosity and thickness of the stone slab. The thicker and less porous the slab is, the higher its grade will be. Usually, granite, since it is a natural stone, is going to be porous, but there are certain variations that aren’t as porous as other grades of the stone, so it’s an important factor.
Lastly, the origin of the stone matters the most too. If granite originated from China, then it’s going to be a lot more reasonable in price and the grade is low. However, granite coming from Brazil is the highest grade of stone you can get your hands on, so those stones are always better.
Levels Of Granite Countertops
Here are all of the different grades of granite slabs, with level 1 being the lowest and all of the other levels superseding are higher grade stones.
Level 1
Level 1 granite is the lowest grade of the stone, and it’s also known as entry-level granite. It is a stone that is quarried in China and it’s also quite thin.
Some parts of the slab don’t even match the rest of the stone, so you won’t get that fluidity in the pattern that you expect in granite. It is also the least expensive stone from the lot, coming in at a price point of about $40 to $50 for a 1×1 foot slab.
Level 2
Level 2 granite is a grade higher than level 1 and it is way better than the previous grade. Even though it is still low in quality and is considered mid-grade, it is still very beautiful in appearance and the saturation of the colors and the veining of the stone is beautiful.
It is usually quarried from Brazil, but level 2 granite can be damaged around the corners and it will lack the potency you see in actual and high-grade granite. Nonetheless, it is still an affordable option, coming in at $50 to $60.
Level 3
Level 3 granite is more exotic, because there are a lot of amazing color varieties in this level, as compared to the previous ones. You can get exquisite granite colors at this level and follow many kitchen countertop trends.
The level 3 slabs are also pretty dense and they have remarkable strength. They’re still less than an inch thick, but they’re amazing in appearance and they cost about $50 to $75 per 1×1 foot slab, so they’re a lot more expensive than the previous grades.
Level 4
This granite level is a notch higher in exceptional quality, amazing veining, and color selection. Level 4 granite is thick, has absolutely beautiful appearance, and the veining is deep and pronounced.
As for the look of the granite and consistency in patterns, every side of granite belonging to level 4 grade is like a mirror image of the rest of the stone, so it looks like the stone is installed as it is on the countertop base, which is just so amazing to look at.
These stones are also available in colors you’ve never heard of before, like royal blue, midnight gray, and even shades of dark green.
Level 5, 6, And Up
These levels of granite are extremely rare to find. Level 4 is considered to be the highest grade of granite, but certain higher levels will leave your jaw dropped. The patterns of these granite grades are impossible to beat and they look like the most beautiful abstract painting you’ve ever seen.
These high and exotic grades of granite are so beautiful that they have been dubbed “Van Gough” granite, they’re that beautiful and ethereal to look at. Well, as amazing as they are, they come at a hefty price point of $200 to $250 for a 1×1 foot slab, so they are the most expensive stones from the lot.
Keep in mind that prices fluctuate over time so for the exact cost of any granite level, contact a granite company Durham NC.
Choosing The Right Granite Level
When buying granite countertops for your house, you can’t just select the best grade, because that might be a little risky for your wallet. So, here are some considerations that you need to keep in mind if you want to get your hands on good and reasonable granite grades.
Your Budget
You need to have a budget in mind. If your budget doesn’t allow it, then you certainly can’t go for 6th or 7th grade. That’s just not justifiable. So, even though granite is already quite an expensive material, you need to have a budget in mind so that you can get the most bang for your buck.
The Longevity
The next factor that comes into play when you’re considering different grades of granite is the longevity and durability of the material. You need to choose a material that is sound in durability and strength and level 2 and 3 will suffice, if you have a reasonable budget. These granite countertops will last you from 10 to 25 years, which is a fair amount of time.
Yes, the strength and longevity of granite does increase as you level up, but so does the price, so you need to keep everything in mind, at the end of the day.
The Maintenance
Maintenance is also an important factor to consider when buying kitchen countertops. Lower-level granite countertops will require more maintenance and if you think that you’re saving money by getting lower-grade granite, then the high maintenance will make up for all of your saved costs.
So, it’s better to think this through logically and get a material with a reasonable grade. That doesn’t mean that you need to get the best of the best, because that won’t be possible every single time, but you need to think about the quality and the frequency of maintenance so that your life is made easier.
The Size
The size of the granite countertops matters a lot. The size includes the thickness of the slab, the size of the countertop space, and everything in between. Certain grades are only available in precut sizes. You need to ensure that those are the ones for you.
Moreover, you can get granite customized, but that will cost you a little bit more. So, you need to think this through and understand what grade you need at the end of the day.
Conclusion
Granite countertops are of various grades so it’s better to have some knowledge about them before diving into the buying process. Moreover, only choose reputable granite countertop installers Raleigh NC as they deceive people and communicate the correct levels and market price of granite slabs.
