Granite is one of the most sought-after materials used in home improvement projects. It can be used for kitchen or bathroom countertops, backsplashes, vanity tops, and island tops. Although it is a very durable and elegant material, its price can sometimes be a point of discussion. 

The question of why granite is expensive can be answered with its unique characteristic qualities and its amazing benefits. Moreover, the process of extracting and preparing the granite slabs requires a lot of expertise. Read more to find out about the factors that contribute to the price of granite. 

What is Granite?

Before delving into its price, we should first learn more about what granite is. Granite is not just a building material, it is also a very durable and aesthetic option for home improvement projects. It is comprised mostly of feldspar, mica, and quartz. This combination allows granite to express the best qualities of each of these ingredients. 

Granite has distinct patterns that set each slab apart, giving the stone undeniable charm. As granite is a natural stone, no two slabs are the same, making your countertops one of a kind. If you decide to invest in granite, you are not just buying new countertops, you are also purchasing a piece of art formed by nature. 

Moreover, granite is also incredibly durable. It is highly resistant to daily wear and tear that can occur in busy households, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. 

How is Granite Formed?

Granite is formed deep within the earth. It is the result of molten lava slowly cooling down over millions of years. As the molten lava cools, its components recrystallize and create the distinctive speckled appearance of granite. 

This process helps the granite crystals interlock, making it resistant to scratches, cracks, and chips. Moreover, the additions of veins or other patterns are the result of other minerals mixing into the granite slab while it is still molten, and the color of these patterns shows us which mineral it is. For example, red veins suggest the presence of iron in the slab. 

Granite Quarrying

Extracting these heavy and dense granite blocks out of the earth is no small task. This process requires a lot of expertise and special machinery to accomplish. Granite quarries are often located in remote locations, far from major city centers. Therefore establishing the quarry takes a lot of infrastructure investment, making granite itself more expensive at the end. 

Furthermore, the labor required to complete these hard tasks is highly physically demanding and requires skilled operators. The environmental regulations of a granite quarry add further costs to the operation. All of these factors combined help explain why granite is expensive. 

Transporting Granite

Once the granite slab is extracted, it needs to be transported to facilities where it will be fabricated to fit in with the requirements of the retailers. Granite blocks can weigh tonnes, therefore special trucks and cranes are necessary to move them to their destination. 

Countries like Brazil, India, and Italy are major granite sources. Shipping the granite from these countries to other parts of the world takes a lot of logistical planning and work. In other words, this journey also adds to the final price of the stone, explaining another reason why granite is expensive. 

Processing Granite

Raw granite blocks are far from the polished, shiny, and smooth surfaces you see in showrooms. They are rough with jagged edges that need sanding, polishing, and sealing. The process of transforming granite from its natural rough state to a surface that can be used in homes can be challenging. 

First, the blocks are sliced into thinner slabs, then they are polished with a high-shine polish to reveal their true beauty. Depending on the intended use, additional customizations such as edge profiles might be added to the slab. 

Each stage of this process requires very expensive specialized machines. Moreover, customizations such as ornate details might need to be hand carved, making them even more costly. When you are purchasing granite countertops, you are also paying for the craftsmanship that goes into making the slab not only beautiful but also functional. 

The Rarity of the Granite 

Granite is available in a wide range of colors and patterns. However, not all granite types are equal in terms of price and popularity. Some granite types, such as pure white varieties, or ones that include bold and bright colors like red or blue tend to cost more than common color palettes like cream or beige. This is because slabs with a pure color throughout, or ones that are adorned with such bold colors are much rarer. 

Rare options are most commonly found in remote locations and specific quarries. Therefore, when you are purchasing a rare type of granite, you are also paying for its exclusivity and uniqueness. 

Aesthetic Appeal 

One of the most striking benefits of granite countertops is their aesthetic appeal. Its unique patterns elevate your home while its strong and dense structure makes the countertops appear luxurious. Their beauty can transform any space they are installed in, adding an element of sophistication. 

Whether you prefer a classic look with a white base and gray patterns, or you want to add some warmth to the room with brown tones, granite can accommodate your needs. The beauty of granite is timeless, it is a popular choice for homeowners because it won’t go out of style, making your home look outdated. 

In short, there are many reasons why granite is expensive. Although granite fixtures can be a costly investment, they are also very long-lasting and they will prove themselves to be more than worthy in the long run. Its price isn’t just the material, it is also all of the care and attention that goes into quarrying, fabricating, polishing, and sealing it. 

Moreover, different customization options might also explain why granite is expensive. Common granite slabs with very few personalizations will be much more budget-friendly than rare slabs with intricate carvings or ornate designs. Regardless, granite is one of the best options for home improvement projects and it is a worthwhile investment.

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