Pros: The look of natural slab stone Ð usually granite in kitchen countertops -- cannot be duplicated. While other products have made advances in replicating the giant swaths and variations in color, thereÕs really no substitute for natural stone. No two natural stone countertops will be the same, thus whatever you choose will be a unique statement.
Cons: With this exceptional beauty comes two major downsides: natural stone is porous, and must be ÒsealedÓ every six months or so. Even still, the pores are never entirely eliminated, and can potentially harbor grime or bacteria. In most home uses, however, regular household cleaning will be sufficient. Secondly, because natural stone is a natural product, it is not warranteed.
Pricing: Most people are surprised to learn that granite is surprisingly affordable. Starting at about $65 per square foot, itÕs probably less costly for the show-stopping beauty of granite than you expected. Depending on color availability, and because it is a limited resource, specific colors may be more expensive. Sometimes much, much more expensive.
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