Is granite being used in new builds

According to a report carried out by The Builders Practices Survey, 64% of new build homes were built with granite countertops in 2016. The trend of using natural stone materials in kitchens and bathrooms has seen no sign of stopping, being revered as the height of home luxury. Granite is undoubtedly an excellent choice for any contemporary home design and, as a result, will often increase the asking price of a new build.Whilst everyone is looking to get the best price on their new home, as a buyer, it is essential to understand what you are buying into and see the investment you will be making. With this in mind, in this article, we will be exploring why property developers are increasingly choosing granite countertops, how it can benefit you as a homeowner and why this can increase the asking price.

Why is Granite being used in New Builds?

Granite countertops are an investment; being durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing, it isn't difficult to see why they are the obvious choice when designing a home. Property developers are looking to create a profitable, modern, and appealing property for buyers, and by using granite in the key areas of the home, they can easily achieve this.

What are the benefits of Granite?

There are many benefits to using granite in homes for both property developers and homeowners. As mentioned, they are incredibly hard-wearing, a more versatile choice and aesthetically pleasing, but these aren't the only reasons why this natural material has taken hold of the market in the last decade.

Stain Resistant

Once properly sealed, granite is stain and liquid-resistant, making it perfect for modern kitchens and bathrooms. Any spills can be wiped away with warm water and mild detergent, making it one of the most effortless countertops to maintain.

Retained Value

Retained value is a key benefit for both property developers and homeowners as granite countertops are built to last. Even after 10-15 years of usage, you will hardly be able to tell that your countertop has aged at all and, as such, will not depreciate. This is ideal for property developers looking to entice buyers and for homeowners looking to eventually sell on.

Warranty

One of the most significant benefits of choosing granite is that most fabricators will provide a lifetime guarantee on your countertop installation.

Sustainability

As consumers become more aware of their impact on the planet, developers are increasingly choosing more sustainable materials. Granite is one of the more natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable choices offering many environmentally friendly attributes such as durability, an enduring life cycle and recyclability. It is a countertop that will last you and your home a lifetime.

Versatility

A characteristic loved by any property developer, and the final reason granite is an excellent investment is its versatility. Available in a wide range of colours and sizes, granite countertops are entirely customisable to your space. Their adaptability means they can offer the key rooms of the home a modern elegance for relatively little cost.

The use of a long-lasting, durable, and aesthetically pleasing material such as granite will inevitably push up the price of a new build. However, it is important to remember that granite can be as much of an investment as the property. So, when inspecting a newbuild, you may wish to keep an eye out for desirable materials such as granite to know if you are getting a good deal!

Get in touch

We are proud to be one of the UK's leading granite and quartz worktop companies, supplying and installing only the highest-grade materials at fantastic prices. With over 25 years of experience installing worktops, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of experts.

If you are interested in finding out more about our Granite Countertops or have any other questions about any of our other products, please get in touch with us today on 01612870715 or email us at info@graniteandquartzinstallations.co.uk. One of our team will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

FAQ

Some questions & some answers

Where do you supply and install granite and quartz worktops?

Granite & Quartz Installations supplies and fits kitchen worktops across Greater Manchester, Cheshire and surrounding areas, with nationwide fitting also available. Our service areas include Manchester, Stockport, Wilmslow, Altrincham, Warrington, Chester, Bolton and Wigan. Send us your postcode with your enquiry so we can confirm availability for your address.

How much do quartz worktops cost?

Quartz worktop prices depend on your chosen stone, worktop dimensions, thickness and fabrication requirements. Sink and hob cut-outs, edge profiles, upstands, splashbacks and access to the property can also affect the total. Send us your kitchen plan or approximate measurements for a quote tailored to your project.

What information do you need for a worktop quote?

Please provide your postcode, contact details and a kitchen plan or the approximate length and width of each worktop section in millimetres. Include your preferred stone and details of any sink, hob, tap holes, drainer grooves, upstands or splashbacks. Let us know about stairs or restricted access too.

What is the difference between granite and quartz worktops?

Granite is natural stone, so its colour and pattern vary from slab to slab. Quartz is an engineered surface available in a wide choice of colours and designs, including marble-effect finishes. Both can suit kitchen worktops; the right choice depends on the appearance, maintenance requirements and budget you prefer.

What thicknesses are available for your worktops?

Our worktops are available in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses, depending on the selected stone. A 30mm worktop creates a more substantial appearance, while 20mm offers a slimmer finish. We can discuss the available thicknesses for your chosen design when preparing your quote.

What size are quartz slabs, and will my worktop need a joint?

Slab dimensions vary by stone and supplier. Whether your worktop needs a joint depends on the available slab size, kitchen layout, cut-outs and access to the property. We will discuss the proposed layout and any necessary joints before fabrication.

Are your worktops made to measure?

Yes. We template your kitchen to establish the measurements before fabricating the worktops to suit your layout. The finished pieces are planned around your cabinets, sink, hob and other agreed features.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Arrange templating once your kitchen base units are installed, securely fixed and level. This allows us to measure the finished layout accurately. Contact us earlier for an initial quote and advice on coordinating the worktops with your kitchen installation.

How long does it take from templating to installation?

We aim to manufacture and fit your worktops approximately seven days after templating. The timescale depends on your chosen stone, availability and project requirements. We will confirm the expected installation date when arranging your order.

How long does worktop installation take?

Installation usually takes around three to eight hours, depending on the size and complexity of your kitchen. Larger layouts, additional features or difficult access may require more time. We will discuss the expected fitting arrangements before installation day.

Can I see samples before choosing my worktops?

Yes. You can view a selection of granite and quartz samples at our Cheadle showroom or request free samples through our website. Viewing samples in your own kitchen can help you compare colours with your cabinets, flooring and lighting.

When should I arrange worktop templating?

Can you install worktops in an upstairs kitchen or flat?

Yes, upstairs installations can be possible, subject to suitable access. Tell us about stairs, lifts, narrow doorways and other restrictions when requesting your quote. Additional labour charges may apply, and access can affect the size of the worktop sections we can bring into the property.

Can you replace my worktops without replacing the kitchen?

We offer worktop replacement as well as worktops for new kitchens. The existing cabinets and layout will need to be suitable for the new stone surfaces. Send us photographs and measurements so we can discuss your project and any preparation required.

Where is your granite and quartz showroom?

Our showroom is at Apex, Unit G037, Stanley Green Trading Estate, Duke Avenue, Cheadle, SK8 6RX. Contact us on 0161 302 8959 before travelling to check visiting arrangements and availability of the samples you would like to see.

Do you fit undermount sinks and connect the plumbing?

For undermount sinks, we secure the sink in position as part of the worktop installation. Suitable sink supports must be installed by you or your tradesperson beforehand. Securing the sink is separate from connecting the water supply and waste; please confirm the plumbing arrangements with us before installation.

Can you make matching upstands and splashbacks?

Upstands and splashbacks can be included in your worktop design, subject to the chosen material and project requirements. Include the dimensions in your enquiry and tell us whether you would like a short upstand, a splashback or full-height wall panels.

Can I put hot pans directly on quartz worktops?

Use a trivet or heat-resistant mat rather than placing hot pans directly on quartz. Although quartz is durable, excessive heat or sudden temperature changes can damage the surface. Follow the care instructions supplied for your particular stone.