Most kitchen design professionals and builders agree that granite is the preferred material for high-end kitchen countertops and remodels. Unlike laminate and solid surface material such as Corian, granite resists heat. Independent research confirms that granite is one of the most bacteria-resistant kitchen surfaces and when properly sealed, is not affected by citric acid, coffee, tea, alcohol or wine. Because it is so hard and dense, granite is nearly impossible to scratch and with proper cleaning and routine maintenance, granite will not stain under normal kitchen use.

A 2006 issue of Consumer Reports magazine compared granite with engineered stone, ceramic tile, laminate, butcher block and other manufactured surfaces for kitchen applications. Natural granite received the 2^nd highest overall rating after engineered stone, since engineered stone is non-porous and never needs to be sealed. Keep in mind that engineered stone comes in a limited number of colors, most having essentially the same small, tight, granular pattern. Bridgewater Marble & Granite fabricates and installs both granite and engineered stone.

Granite comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns and finishes including polished, honed, brushed, antique and flamed. There is granite for every design preference, décor and budget ranging from traditional to contemporary and increasingly exotic tastes. Granite will increase the resale value of your home. Homeowners who remodel with upscale materials including stone, can expect to recover 84.8 % of their investment according to the 2005 Cost vs. Value Report published by Realtor Online Magazine.