One of the most common questions we get asked is “Stainless Steel or Granite Countertops” or “Stainless Steel vs Granite Countertops” which is better? This really depends on your lifestyle and what works best for you. If design and long-term durability are important to you, stainless steel is the ideal choice. In contrast, if you like a more classic style with consistent patterns, Granite may be your favorite material.
What’s right for you? – It comes down to personal preference.
However, there are a number of other factors to consider before deciding on either option. . Use this guide to get a clear view on stainless steel countertops vs granite countertops.
Granite Countertops
If you want a sleek, classic countertop, then Granite is a good choice. Granite countertops are known for lasting a lifetime without becoming yellowed or dull. It’s very durable and stain and scratch resistant, plus it can mimic the look of other natural stones like marble. The material is also exceptionally hard and durable, making it a great option for any kitchen. Granite countertops generally require little maintenance to ensure their shine and quality remain visible.
Read this article to know more about stone countertops.
Pros
1. Long Lasting
Crafted with 95% of stones and 5% resin, Granite comes with exceptional traits like scratch-resistant, hard-to-beat sturdiness, and durability that makes it withstand for years. These long-wear life attributes make Granite Surface Plates eternally useful.
2. Anti-Bacterial
One of the most significant benefits of Granite countertops over stainless steel is that it keeps germs at bay. As a result, one of the most sanitary materials readily available in the market is Granite.
3. Easy Cleaning
Though Granite is made for durability, spills can still happen, especially with kids around. Luckily, granite countertops are a breeze to clean, just wipe down your countertops using water and mild soap. That’s all for every day!
4. Multiple Design Options
Granite comes in a diverse range of appealing colors and patterns to build that rich and luxurious look. So you can go for colors that fit every style, from minimalist to rustic.
Cons
1. Water Build Up
Granite countertops are beautiful and popular, but hard water can help build up calcium on the surface over time. This buildup can highlight flaws in your granite countertop and make the countertop look scuffed or worn over time.
2. Fade
Granite is a beautiful material and is one of the most durable countertop choices available. It is also stain-resistant, so it’s easy to keep looking new. However, extended exposure to direct sunlight will cause the granite to fade and eventually yellow.
3. Porus
Granite countertops are smooth, super hard but porous, which means they can’t prevent stains and bacteria. In order to keep them intact, you need to get them sealed professionally after every five years.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Sleek, modern, and sleek stainless steel countertops bring the professional kitchen into your home. With a realistic style and an ability to stand up to dents, these surfaces are a great option for anyone who may need an easy-clean kitchen upgrade.
They make any kitchen feel like you’re in a pro kitchen. From the glaze they develop over time to the chic and modern flair they bring to any space, stainless steel countertops are a must-have item if you’re looking for a practical, aesthetic option.
Plus, it’s easy to clean and maintain, so they’ll last years and also come in sheet form or pre-built tops.
Pros
1. Durable & Easy To Keep
Stainless steel countertops are as tough and even capable of handling whatever you throw at them. They are super durable and perfect for the commercial niche. This makes them ideal not only for use in the home but also as work sinks.
2. Exquisite Appearance
Stainless steel countertops are a great choice for the everyday cook. With their sleek, stylish and professional look, they’re often chosen for contemporary and modern kitchens and are also a standout selection for vintage-inspired spaces.
3. Perfect For Commercial Kitchen
Stainless steel countertops have been popular in restaurant kitchens for decades. They’re highly durable, practical, and look great. Plus, stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain. So if you’re looking for an industrial-type look or a modern appeal, stainless steel counters are an excellent choice.
Cons
1. Noisy
Being metal composite, they make a lot of noise when you accidentally drop something on the surface – that can be big trouble for you if you have kids or seniors in your home.
2. Stubborn Watermarks
Stainless steel countertops are a beautiful, affordable alternative to natural stone. However, you need to put a bit extra effort to keep your natural stone on sparkle:
- Avoid placing hot pans on the surface.
- Keep your countertop safe from being scratched by rough objects or hard chemicals found in abrasive cleaners.
- Allowing persistent water contact over long periods of time might harm the countertop surface.
Stainless Steel vs Granite Countertops Comparison Table
| Features | Granite Countertops | Stainless Steel Countertops |
| Price | Moderate to expensive | Moderate |
| Looks | Multi-color | Montonegous |
| Noise Dampening | Nice | Poor |
| Maintenance | Easy | Fairly Easy |
| Durability | High | Extreme high |
| Weight | Heavy | Light |
What To Opt For Stainless Steel Countertops vs Granite Countertops
Which will better serve your countertops—Granite or Stainless steel? Let me be real with you here; people have long loved granite for its strength, durability, and beauty. But if you’re interested in a sleek and smooth look to your kitchen or bathroom countertop, stainless steel is worth a second look.
Granite is sturdier than stainless steel and can be easier to clean. In some ways, though, stainless steel is the strongest option on the market with its natural strength and durability.
Moreover, environmentally conscious homeowners will find stainless steel the most eco-friendly choice on the market because it’s phthalate-free, lead-free, non-toxic, and more hygienic for practically any application and looks perfect for commercial purposes for all sizes of kitchens.
In short, both granite and stainless steel offer many benefits to a homeowner. However, again it comes down to lifestyle and personal taste when determining what finish is best for you in your kitchen or bathroom surfaces.
No matter what surface you choose for your new home, you’ll want to understand the differences between granite and stainless steel. With its combination of durability and low maintenance, stainless is on the rise as an attractive alternative to granite countertops.
Bottom Line
In recent years, stainless steel has emerged as a popular choice for countertop materials. It’s an easy application, durability, and wide range of customization options make it a great option for a variety of homeowners. However, Granite offers some great perks that’re missing in stainless steel countertops.
When deciding between stainless steel countertops vs granite, consider all the best options for you and your family. When researching, evaluate these five important factors: Durability, Maintenance, Costs, Installation Process, and Surface usage.
