Although granite countertops have been available for decades, they are currently in high demand and more popular than ever.
While in the past granite was considered a luxury available only to the wealthy, it now attracts homeowners of all tastes and income levels.
Several impressive qualities help explain why granite has secured its place as a popular choice among homeowners, including natural beauty, durability, availability and more affordable prices.
Market analysis reports list granite as one of the most popular countertop surfaces, and predict its popularity to grow, despite the rising number of choices in countertop materials.
A study from The Freedonia Group, Inc.
, a Cleveland-based industry research firm, claims the demand for granite kitchen and bathroom countertops will continue increasing 1.
3 percent annually, determining its use will rise to 540 million square feet by 2011.
The firm's report "Residential Kitchen & Bathroom Countertops", forecasts countertop demand to rise 2.
4 percent by 2013, with granite and other natural stone countertops as the fastest growing segment.
Along with unbeatable qualities and lower prices, granite's rising popularity stems from a few less obvious sources.
One such source is reality television and the rise of cooking and remodeling shows.
As chefs prepare dishes on granite surfaces, and contractors provide home makeovers that inevitably include granite, homeowners crave their own granite kitchen countertops.
Granite is not just a trend - it's here to stay.
And its staying power is partly due to its reliability.
While homeowners always seek beautiful countertops, today's face-paced lifestyle demands surfaces that also withstand high use and require little maintenance.
Granite meets both demands beautifully, withstanding high temperatures, resisting stains and requiring only regular cleaning and periodic sealing.
Homeowners can't deny that granite offers everything they could ever dream of in a countertop.
Here are just a few of granite's impressive qualities:

• Unmatched durability.
  Granite is the second hardest surface, just behind diamond.
  Granite resists damage related to heat, stains, dents and cracks.
  
• Natural and unique beauty.
  Granite is a natural stone and no two pieces are identical.
  
• Increase in home value.
  Granite countertops offer homeowners a boost in home value and attracts buyers.
  
• Affordability.
  Granite costs less than ever, with some varieties costing less than solid surface and quartz countertops.
  
• Variety.
  Granite is available in countless colors and shades, meaning there is something to match everyone's taste.