More and more homeowners are choosing granite countertops during their kitchen remodel. The reasons are many, but maybe you’re researching countertop options and wondering what’s wrong with granite. After all, it can be quite expensive to install. There are many good reasons new home builders and remodeling homeowners choose granite over traditional tile or laminate.

While you can find some granite slabs at fairly reasonable prices, the more unique the pattern you choose, the more expensive it will be. Granite is a natural stone that is dug up around the world, shaped and polished into slabs and tiles. You can find colors and patterns as casual or ornate as you like, from a single shade of one color to a variety that resembles galaxies in space.

If you’re putting together your dream kitchen and want to get the most for your money, here are a few reasons why granite is a great choice:

beauty that lasts

Granite is extremely resistant. In fact, on the hardness scale, it ranks second only to diamonds. It can withstand the heat of pans and holds up to spills quite well. While some stones can be stained, they can also be sealed for added protection. Because granite is a natural stone, it is available in an unimaginable variety of colors, designs, and patterns. Each tile is so unique that it really gives kitchens a beauty that traditional tiles simply can’t.

Slab, tile or overlay

The best thing about granite is that there are several installation options. Most commonly, granite is installed on a standard size slab. If you find a slab with a design you love that is too big, you can cut it to size. You can also get granite in tiles if you prefer that look and want to deal with grouting. Tile or a granite overlay may be used over an existing countertop as a cost factor or due to limitations in your kitchen design and layout.

A baker’s delight

Granite countertops are a cooks and bakers dream. Because they can withstand heat, pots and pans can be placed directly on the surface for each access. Plus, the large, flat, even surface allows for simple, convenient, and easy preparation and cleanup. The smooth surface also allows bakers to stretch dough or form shapes without worrying about bumps and indentations in the surface below.

A few things to consider as well: Granite can dull knives if a cutting board isn’t used, and it can also crack if you’re in the habit of hitting countertops with a butcher knife or other heavy object. However, for most homeowners and cooks, granite is the perfect choice for a unique, luxurious look that lasts for years with little maintenance.