There is some concern that materials sold as granite countertops or as building material may be hazardous to health. Dan Steck of St. Johns University, has stated that approximately 5% of all granite will be of concern, with the caveat that only a tiny percentage of the tens of thousands of granite slab types have been tested. Various resources from national geological survey organizations are accessible online to assist in assessing the risk factors in granite country and design rules relating, in particular, to preventing accumulation of radon gas in enclosed basements and dwellings.
A study of granite countertops was done (initiated and paid for by the Marble Institute of America) in November 2008 by National Health and Engineering Inc of USA. In this test, all of the 39 full size granite slabs that were measured for the study showed radiation levels well below the European Union safety standards (section 4.1.1.1 of the National Health and Engineering study) and radon emission levels well below the average outdoor radon concentrations in the US.
Not too long ago, granite countertops were a rarity; today, because of greater availability and an increased number of fabricators, granite tops are more common and affordable. Granite is available in a variety of colors, sinks can be undermounted and a variety of edgings can be crafted. Since each piece is unique, you may want to visit the fabricator to select the exact slabs for your kitchen. Seams are slightly more evident in granite, and hot grease can stain unsealed tops, but overall, granite requires very little maintenance. Expect to spend $60 to $125 per square foot, installed.
Almost all granite tops are installed professionally, since fabrication and installation require specialized tools and skills. It’s simply not worth it for a do-it-yourselfer to invest the time and dollars required, especially for a project that’s usually a once-in-a-lifetime affair. If you want to roll up your sleeves, pick up a paintbrush or hammer, but leave these tops to the pros.