This just in: MobiousX joins NSRA Forums...

[Huligar]

Welcome MobiousX!
The NSRA is a very diverse place. There is a lot to do here - the trick is just knowing where to look.

First, introduce yourself. We're a friendly bunch and we welcome newcomers.
click here If you are looking stone restoration contractor
click here if you are looking for information about stains
click here if you are looking for proven stone care products
click here if you just want to ask questions and get answers from the stone pro
click here if you want to advertise on the site

[MobiousX]

Thanks for the introduction! I'm a residential home-owner, and a rental property renovator. I'm a buy and hold type of person, preferring the slow "hobby" of buying apartment buildings and really doing a number on them as I move.

I'm really looking forward to reading the forums, and hopeful, though I've not much experience with granite and natural stones, I've always wanted them.

My first kitchen rehab for an owner-occupied studio/loft apartment that I live in and own, is being completed, and I'm considering upgrading the counter top choices with some granite counter (though I know that the future tenant will certainly enjoy it, they may not though, but it's for me so I'll go for it!)

I've completely updated the kitchen, with stainless appliances, and new cherry-toffee cabinetry, and am left with the choice of counter.
I want something that will last for the next 30 yrs., be completely durable, and be able to handle the rigors of future tenants who probably might not take care of the counter the way I would. (one can hope).

As such, I was told by a local fabricator to choose either a lighter golden color to hide the eventual fruit juice and water stains, or the dark colors because density will prevent the stains from happening. They suggested difference names, but these are the closest in name and color I could find, what do you suggest?

Bianco Sardo:


Karelia Red:


Uba Tuba or Verde Uba Tuba:

or
Giallo Ornamental:


I've never bought granite before and I like the look of the Verde Uba Tuba, but everywhere I look on your site and the net, I see people with horror stories about it. Isn't darker better in terms of stain prevention? I'm concerned about a "good look" but it doesn't have to be "spot on" in terms of color matching. I'll lean more towards functionality then look any day.

My thoughts lead to Giallo, because any stains would blend in, and not look so bad in a small open, relatively dark kitchen.

Any experience with these types, and which one's should I stick to as a guideline for when I renovate the other kitchens of my properties?

I appreciate the honest and wealth of experience you all would offer,

Thanks!
Charles

[Huligar]

Charles, going by the choices you have i would go with the Uba Tuba. Forget about the story's. Give all your tenants a stone care kit like lustro Italiano and call it a day.