How to Choose Granite Countertops

Browsing fields of rough-cut stone while shopping for granite countertops can be, well, intimidating. It’s hard to imagine how such dirty, coarse slabs end up as highly polished focal points in a kitchen.

Bruce Birkl, owner of Distinctive Granite and Marble in Holbrook, operates an indoor showroom (no need to worry about shopping in the rain) and is a custom fabricator. He said while the first shopping step is material selection, choices beyond color will effect the entire installation.

For example, most granite is highly polished, but other finishes are available. They include a rough-texture honing which provides a dull look; a textured brushed application that is very rustic; and even a finish that simulates leather.

Most edges are either simple round-overs or an ogee pattern, but bevels and squares are good options for the right kitchen. For a very custom look, especially on kitchen islands, Birkl suggests stacking two slabs of granite and laminating the edges together to simulate a huge chunk of stone. This option also is useful for fireplace surrounds where homeowners want a grander application.

Although inlays are typically though of as a way to add shapes and medallions, Birkl noted that specialized computer- assisted cutters can recreate any photo they scan into the system.

But thoughtful details don’t need always to be elaborate: grooves cut next to the sink can form a drainboard so water always falls into the basin.