Granite Countertops: Pros, Cons, and Is It the Right Choice for Your Kitchen?

Is granite still a good choice for modern kitchens? What are the real pros and cons of granite countertops today? How does it compare to quartz or other countertop materials? Will granite slab selection impact your kitchen design or long-term value?

What about stains, sealing, or damage from hot pots and pans? These are the questions homeowners bring to us every week. At International Stoneworks, we’ve been working with natural granite for over two decades. Here’s what you need to know before you commit to granite for your kitchen countertops.

Pros of Granite Countertops (And Why They Still Hold Up in 2025)

Granite isn’t just a holdover from the early 2000s; it’s still one of the most trusted choices for good reason. If you’re weighing options for your kitchen or bathroom, here are eight solid reasons granite countertops still deserve a spot on your shortlist.

1. Natural Beauty That’s Hard to Fake

Each granite slab is one-of-a-kind in color and pattern. That natural variation adds depth and character you won’t get with engineered surfaces. Whether you’re designing a sleek, modern kitchen or a warm, rustic space, granite fits without forcing it. Exotic granite options elevate high-end homes with a look that can’t be mass-produced.

2. Built for the Real World — Not Just for Looks

Granite is highly resistant to scratches, heat, and everyday wear. This is a countertop that works as hard as you do, especially in homes where cooking isn’t just for show.

3. Long-Term Value That Pays Off

Granite countertops can significantly boost the resale value of your home. Buyers recognize granite as a premium material. That matters when you're selling a home that needs to feel turnkey, high-quality, and thoughtfully designed.

4. Low Daily Maintenance (When Sealed Properly)

When sealed, granite becomes naturally resistant to stains and is easy to clean with just mild soap and water. Unlike more delicate surfaces, it doesn’t require special cleaners or constant attention. It’s low-fuss, high-impact.

5. A Wide Range of Granite Colors and Patterns

From soft whites and warm golds to deep blacks and swirling blues, granite offers a wider range of natural color and pattern than most expect. This makes it flexible for many kitchen designs, whether you’re going for bold contrast or seamless flow with your cabinetry and flooring.

6. Stands Up to Outdoor Use (Certain Types)

Some granites are tough enough to handle outdoor kitchens. With the right seal and selection, granite slabs can stand up to UV exposure, rain, and wide temperature swings better than most countertop materials. That makes it a contender for patios, grills, and exterior bar tops.

7. Compatible With Multiple Edge Profiles

Granite works well with a wide variety of edge styles, from sleek straight lines to ornate ogee curves. That design flexibility allows it to complement everything from ultra-modern builds to traditional homes without looking out of place.

8. A Long Lifespan With the Right Care

Granite is a premium investment because it lasts. With proper installation and basic upkeep, granite countertops can last decades without needing replacement. It doesn’t fade, warp, or break down over time like some composite materials. In many homes, it outlasts the kitchen itself.

From durability to design flexibility, granite offers more than just surface-level appeal—it delivers real, lasting value where it counts.

Cons of Granite Countertops: What You Need to Know Before You Commit

Here’s where granite countertops can fall short, depending on your priorities.

1. Granite Is a Porous Material (And Yes, That Matters)

Granite must be sealed regularly to stay stain-resistant, especially in busy kitchens where spills are part of the deal.

Unsealed granite can absorb liquids like oil, juice, or wine, leaving behind dark stains that are hard to remove.

If regular maintenance feels like a chore, this might be a dealbreaker.

2. Heavy, Rigid, and Not DIY-Friendly

Granite is a heavy object, and that means it needs strong, level cabinets for support.Improper handling can cause it to crack, especially across long spans or cutouts.Installing granite countertops isn’t a weekend project; this is pro-only territory.

3. The Price Isn’t Outrageous—But It’s Not Cheap

Granite is a premium material, and some exotic granite slabs can be costly per square foot.It’s an investment, and one that doesn’t always offer the color consistency or pattern control of engineered stone like quartz.

4. Not All Granite Is Created Equal

Different types of granite vary in density and durability.Some lower-quality slabs chip more easily or require more frequent sealing.Choosing the right slab isn’t just about finding the right color; it’s about selecting one that performs long-term.

Granite countertops have long been a popular choice for kitchens, but like any countertop material, they’re not perfect. Knowing these limitations up front helps you make a smarter, more informed decision.

Ask Yourself These 4 Questions Before Choosing Granite

These four questions will help you figure out if granite is the right choice for your space, your style, and your expectations.

1. How much maintenance are you really willing to do?

Granite is a natural stone, and like most natural materials, it needs a little care.Sealing once a year isn’t complicated, but it’s not optional if you want to keep stains out.If the idea of any upkeep makes you hesitate, granite might not be the best fit for your kitchen or bathroom.

2. Do you want something unique or something uniform?

Every granite slab is different. That’s part of the appeal.But if your vision depends on precise color matching and consistency, granite might frustrate you. Quartz offers a more uniform look across multiple surfaces, worth considering for larger spaces or minimalist designs.

3. What does your kitchen design call for?

Natural granite pairs beautifully with warm woods, layered textures, and organic finishes.If your kitchen design leans high-end rustic or transitional, it’s a natural fit.For ultra-modern spaces, clean-lined quartz might deliver a more intentional aesthetic.

4. Are you optimizing for cost, durability, or design impact?

Granite lands somewhere in the middle.It’s more expensive than laminate, often comparable to quartz, and far more durable than most alternatives.If you’re after a countertop material that holds up to hot pots and pans and boosts your kitchen’s wow factor, granite is a smart long-term investment.

The right slab of granite can elevate your entire kitchen or bathroom, but only if it fits your lifestyle, your taste, and your expectations for performance and upkeep.

Still Deciding? Let’s Talk Granite That Works for Your Home

Seeing granite online is one thing; running your hand across a real slab is another.Visit our Palmer Lake slab yard to explore full-size granite options in person and talk with our expert team. We’ll help you choose the right countertop material for your kitchen or bathroom, whether that’s granite, quartz, or something else entirely. No pressure. Just real guidance from people who’ve been doing this for over 25 years.

Ready when you are:

[Visit Our Slab Yard Today] [Schedule a Free Estimate] [Talk to a Stone Expert About Your Kitchen Remodel]

Granite Countertops: Quick Answers to Common Questions

Does granite need to be sealed?

Yes, because granite is a porous material, it must be sealed to remain resistant to stains from liquids like wine, oil, or juice. Most granite countertops need sealing once a year, though some denser slabs may go longer. This step is essential to maintain the performance and appearance of your countertop surface over time.

Can granite crack or chip?

Granite is a durable stone, but it isn’t indestructible. It can crack or chip if it’s struck by a heavy object—especially near edges or overhangs. Poor installation is another risk. That’s why professional installation is crucial: it ensures the granite is properly supported and secured, which helps it last for decades.

Is granite better than quartz?

Granite and quartz both have strengths. Granite offers natural beauty and better heat resistance, great for handling hot pots and pans. Quartz, being engineered, provides more consistent color and pattern, and it requires no sealing. The better choice depends on your priorities: organic uniqueness vs. visual consistency and zero maintenance.

What’s the average cost per square foot?

Granite typically ranges from $40 to $100+ per square foot installed, depending on the slab, color, and edge profile you choose. More exotic granite colors or thicker slabs can drive the price up. While granite is a premium material, its long-term durability and impact on resale value can justify the investment.

Is granite still in style?

Absolutely. While some trends come and go, granite remains a popular choice for kitchen countertops because of its natural beauty, durability, and wide range of colors. When paired with the right cabinets and lighting, granite can anchor both modern and classic kitchen designs. Natural stone never really goes out of style; it just evolves.