While installing a granite countertop will add some cost to your home, it will also be worth the investment. This type of stone is durable and comes in hundreds of different colors. They are considered one of the most elegant and luxurious countertops available and are some of the most expensive. However, when it comes to appearance, there are few other materials that can match the richness and elegance of a granite countertop. This material is far superior to marble, synthetic, or laminate countertops, and its polished look has a glossy dimensional quality.
Another benefit of installing a granite countertop is its durability. As opposed to other types of stone, this material is virtually scratch-resistant, making it a popular choice for households that spend a lot of time in the kitchen. As a result, granite counters are a great choice for kitchens. Because they are non-porous, they will not absorb bacteria and other harmful materials that other countertops are susceptible to. Because of their durability, granite countertops are easy to clean.
While granite countertops are durable, they can also be a source of natural radiation. Exposure to radon, a colorless and odorless radioactive gas, can cause lung cancer. The amount of radon in a building is typically diluted by ventilation. In addition, the small amounts of beta and gamma radiation that are emitted by granite countertops are unlikely to exceed the natural background levels in the environment.
While granite countertops are a beautiful choice for a home, they can be expensive. You can install a granite countertop in your kitchen for thousands of dollars and still enjoy it for many years to come. In addition to being beautiful and functional, granite countertops can also save you money because they don’t require annual sealing and don’t need to be resealed. You can also add a backsplash to your granite countertop if you’d like a more modern look to your kitchen.
The best way to test the radon content in a granite countertop is to conduct a radon test. While most granite countertops emit a small amount of radiation, it’s nothing compared to the background radiation that is emitted by the earth’s crust and outer space. But it’s always a good idea to check with a radon-testing company because they offer a limited warranty. So if you’re unsure of the radon content in a countertop, you’ll be safe.
The most common radon level in a granite countertop is three milligrams per square foot, which is a tiny amount. While this might not seem like much, radon levels in granite countertops can vary by a few tenths of a milligram. The average radon level in a granite countertop can range from 35-55 cents per square foot. Depending on the type of countertop, a slab can cost anywhere from $35 to $3,000-$400 a square foot. A good home improvement contractor can minimize the seams in a countertop, but the seams will still be present.