The Metro DC area is well known for its many monuments, including the Washington Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, among others. There’s also the Vietnam Veteran Memorial, which was dedicated in 1982. All of these monuments were made at least partly with granite or marble. 

What sort of monument could that be? Why not a granite countertop? Granite countertops have been exploding in popularity in recent years. While they were popular many years ago, laminates took over the kitchen remodeling market for a long time. But with advances in engineered stone, some people have decided on the natural feel of granite. While it does require more maintenance than an engineered stone countertop, it’s more realistic than a laminate countertop, especially inside of a historic home.

While sealing and proper maintenance are necessary for granite countertops, they are incredibly long lasting and durable when sealed and installed correctly. Properly sealed granite countertops are easy to clean it has great scratch and heat resistance. While periodic sealing will be necessary, as natural stone is porous and can be stained from many common kitchen items. However, the natural beauty can outweigh the more uniform and engineered look of most engineered stone products. Properly maintained, granite countertops will last an extremely long time, and may even be incorporated into a future kitchen!

You could also, of course, consider a marble countertop. But they require even more maintenance than granite countertops. It doesn’t have quite the strength of granite and can etch easily. There are definitely beautiful and can have even more of a “monument” feel to them. If you don’t mind the natural wear and tear showing over time, then they might still be a decent option.

If you’re looking to replace a countertop, whether it is in the kitchen or bathroom, we highly recommend granite countertops, especially in today’s market and especially in an area rich with history as has the DC area. Marble might be good as well, depending on how you use your kitchen, and it might be fine in the bathroom. Whichever you choose, both are a fine natural choice to reflect the heritage of the area. If you live in a historic home, it’s even more appropriate.

The owner of CapeSpace in Cape Cod is considering adding granite countertops to their shared kitchen area in their shared office space!

If and when you do install a new granite or marble countertop in your home, and someone asks why you did it, you can say: well I live in the DC area, so I decided to have my own monument in my home!

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons & whiteknuckled via Compfight cc