Granite in the Home: A Complete Guide to Choosing, Installing, and Caring for a Surface That Lasts a Lifetime

Granite is one of the most requested materials for residential and commercial projects for a very simple reason: it combines natural beauty, exceptional durability, and a lifespan that can exceed decades when properly installed.

However, many people choose granite without truly understanding its differences, maintenance requirements, installation process, or common mistakes. This guide is designed to help you make informed decisions and maximize your investment, whether for countertops, floors, walls, or decorative surfaces.

At Céramique Costa, we work with granite and other surfaces every day, which is why we’ve gathered here real, practical information based on professional experience.

What exactly is granite, and why is it so valued?

Granite is a natural igneous stone formed from slowly cooled magma beneath the earth’s surface. This process creates its characteristic crystalline structure, giving granite exceptional hardness and unique patterns that cannot be replicated artificially.

Every slab is different. No two granites are alike, making each installation a truly one-of-a-kind design.

Its main qualities include resistance to heat, relatively low porosity compared to other natural stones, excellent tolerance to daily wear, and the ability to maintain its appearance for many years.

That’s why granite is widely used in kitchens, bathrooms, staircases, high-traffic floors, and commercial surfaces.

Common uses of granite indoors and outdoors

Granite is extremely versatile. In residential projects, it’s most commonly used for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, floors, backsplashes, and decorative walls. Outdoors, it’s often installed on staircases, entrances, and façades thanks to its resistance to temperature changes.

In commercial spaces, granite performs especially well in high-traffic areas such as receptions, restaurants, and retail locations, where durability and professional appearance are essential.

Finish plays a major role in the final look. Polished granite offers a refined, reflective appearance, while matte or flamed finishes provide a more natural, slip-resistant aesthetic.

How to choose the right granite for your project

Choosing granite should never be based on color alone. Several technical factors determine long-term performance.

Material density affects durability. Some granites are more compact and absorb less moisture. Thickness is also critical, especially for countertops where structural stability is required.

Veining patterns are another important consideration. Granites with strong movement often require strategic cutting to maintain visual continuity, which must be planned from the start.

Equally important is understanding how the space will be used. A kitchen requires a different granite than a bathroom or exterior staircase. Not all granites perform the same in every application.

This is where professional guidance becomes essential.

Installation: the most critical step

Even the highest-quality granite can fail if installed incorrectly.

Professional installation begins with precise surface leveling, accurate measurements, and machine-cut slabs. Specialized adhesives for natural stone are then used, followed by proper joint sealing.

For countertops, sensitive areas such as sink cutouts and edges are reinforced to prevent future cracking. For flooring, thermal expansion joints are respected to avoid lifting over time.

Many renovation issues stem from poor installation: uneven surfaces, open joints, water infiltration, or premature fractures.

That’s why working with experienced stone installers is always recommended.

Real granite maintenance: simpler than you think

Contrary to popular belief, granite doesn’t require complicated products or routines.

Daily cleaning only needs warm water and mild soap. Abrasive cleaners and strong acids should be avoided.

Professional sealing is typically done every one to two years depending on usage. This invisible barrier protects against stains and moisture.

Spills like wine, coffee, or oil should be wiped promptly, although properly sealed granite provides significant protection.

With these basic steps, granite can maintain its beauty and integrity for decades.

Common mistakes when working with granite

One frequent mistake is choosing granite purely for appearance without considering real usage.

Another is cutting costs on installation, which usually leads to higher expenses later.

We also see projects where initial sealing is skipped or incorrect cleaning products are used, dulling the surface.

Finally, lack of visual planning, especially with bold veining, can compromise the final result.

Good design considers vein continuity, lighting, and harmony with surrounding materials.

Is granite really worth the investment?

From a long-term value perspective, absolutely.

Granite increases perceived property quality, enhances visual appeal, and reduces replacement costs compared to synthetic materials. Properly installed, it can last the lifetime of the building.

It’s not just an aesthetic choice, it’s a structural investment.

Our experience at Céramique Costa

At Céramique Costa, we handle complete projects, including material selection guidance, installation, and high-precision finishing.

We work in both residential and commercial spaces, adapting every project with technical expertise and aesthetic care.

Our goal isn’t just to install surfaces, it’s to create durable, functional, and visually harmonious environments.

Planning a granite project?

If you’re considering upgrading your kitchen, bathroom, floors, or any surface with granite, we can support you from material selection to final installation.

Contact us for a personalized evaluation and discover how natural stone can transform your space when installed properly from day one.