Now orbiting planet granite

Initially introduced as a substitute for marble in the 1980s, granite has evolved to become one of the most popular countertop materials for kitchens and bathrooms worldwide. In fact, among homeowners who remodel, 23 percent choose to install granite countertops in kitchen areas versus 16 percent who pick granite as a bathroom vanity countertop, per recent Houzz data.

Whether you're remodeling your kitchen for a contemporary appearance, building a new home or simply indulging in design fantasies, you'll discover that granite countertops are more affordable and highly functional.

Take the time to better understand the price of granite countertops, factors that impact these costs, the benefits of granite countertops compared to other types of countertops, other criteria that can affect what you pay, and financing options for granite countertops by reading my latest article for Bankrate, available here.