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Granite is so dated. It's time to move on to other materials anyways.
If it is so dated...what is the "new" material???????
it's only certain colors of granite that are likely to contain radon, and it's not even proven how dangerous it is. (there is radon naturally in a lot of things. it takes a certain amount of radon to cause health problems.) if it worries you, ask them to test the granite during the normal house radon test.
as to the new material, i am putting in black laminate with a silver strip of aluminum flashing along the edge. it looks modern and it's cheap. i just can't pay $5000 for a countertop.
granted? a ride? a trip to port st lucy? 8 )
It is important because it will mark the home as a bubble era home, and bring back bubble memories when seen.
In future times the sight of it will cause people to wince and think sad thoughts.
kinda like LIME GREEN does now?
from what i read it seems like quartz is the new granite... basically you want to stand out from the crowd in the least offencive way possible
if we're talking high end, i like marble, actually white marble veined with grey. very lux. i have a $60 (it was a gift) rolling pin designed for baking that is marble. supposed to be better for baking.
SoCal: Your countertop sounds so cool? Do you happen to have a pic?
Zandane: marble is great for baking surfaces but not as a complete countertop because of sealing issues
Quartz is a more up to date material like Ntets said. I like Soapstone and concrete also.
Granite just makes me gag when I see it too. Especially if it's done in that flipper way of dark cabinetry and stainless appliances.
Recycled glass countertops are beautiful -- have you seen them? and they're better for our environment than tearing apart mountains for their granite.
Glass
I have seen these in several new "green" advertising periodicals. The cost is currently higher than granite. I had a difficult time finding installers for this product as well. Hopefully the popularity of this counter option will increase and positively impact pricing.
Cost and contact info: It’s pricey. EnviroGlas Products, Plano, TX (from $50 per sq. ft.; 888/523-7894); Syndecrete, Santa Monica (from $80 per sq. ft.; 310/829-9704); Vetrazzo, Richmond, CA (pictured; from $55 per sq. ft.; 510/234-5550).
That recycled glass is cooooool.
I like several types and colors of countertop: granite/corian/silstone/SOAPSTONE/cement/ and some I cant recall. I'd be content w/ any of them for looks and longevity. Radon has been an issue for years in parts of Fl -esp around the phosphate mines. Add in other existing exposure risks from foods, chemicals, working in a hospital around xray and MRI machines and I wouldn't avoid granite for possible radon(personal choice). Provided it is of a not too hot variety ;-) I seem to recall reports of some steel patio furniture and irradiated "blue" topaz out of Brazil years ago that were a problem. Thanks for the info. I will keep an eye out for info re high risk materials. .
Brings me to another point. I've seen prices down to $30/sq ft for granite here in the Chicago subs and I think I have even seen one advert for $28. Anyone else have quotes for their area for granite?
Regards
It is extremely important for everyone to put as much granite in their houses as possible to kill off people with the radon radiation, to put the house on the enironmental hazards list, and to force the price down by at least $40k in addition to the bubble popping depreciation.
Since we need to buy less expensive properties, put that radon contaminated granite in, so that someone can make you take it out, or give a substantial price reduction.
i am seeing adverts for as little as 32/sq ft for granite, what does everyone think of SLAB granite floors? lol forget brazilian hardwoods!
As a Realtor I find that Granite is a definite plus when selling a home. Buyers are looking for a clean and durable product . Granite is an inexpensive way to get good value back for the money that you spend on it. If you can get away with pre fab granite, you can find 2' x 8' slabs for as low as $100 in certain markets.
Since October 2009
I agree -- but every neighborhood is different. I would ask your Realtor to show you the competing homes in your area and if they have granite, I would recommend installing it --- or the cool new recycled glass or the marble. I'm seeing a lot of marble in homes (kitchen and bath) lately.
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How important is granite?
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NTETS, "Caveat Emptor"
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is it worth risking your health?
the NY times says if you buy a home with granite, have your future home tested for radon first
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