Granite

What is Granite?

Granite is one of the hardest materials on earth. Its beauty and elegance make it a most prestigious yet practical countertop. No two slabs of granite are the same so your work surface will be unique.

Granite is composed of a variety of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. It forms in hundreds of colors, and is quarried worldwide, but most often from Brazil, Spain, India and China. The only natural stones harder than granite are diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. This makes granite an excellent choice when permanence, enduring color and texture, and complete freedom from deterioration and maintenance are prime requirements.

What is Granite?

Granite is one of the hardest materials on earth. Its beauty and elegance make it a most prestigious yet practical countertop. No two slabs of granite are the same so your work surface will be unique.

Granite is composed of a variety of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. It forms in hundreds of colors, and is quarried worldwide, but most often from Brazil, Spain, India and China. The only natural stones harder than granite are diamonds, rubies, and sapphires. This makes granite an excellent choice when permanence, enduring color and texture, and complete freedom from deterioration and maintenance are prime requirements.

What are the Pros of Granite?

First, let’s look at why you might want to consider a stone like Granite:

  • Granite is highly heat, scratch, and stain resistant.
  • Granite is the traditional favorite of countertop materials for its unique colors and patterns, proven durability, and lasting value.
  • Granite is more durable than other natural stones.
  • Typically, Granite is easier to maintain than other natural stones.

What are the Cons of Granite?

  • Granite being one of the hardest natural stones, it is not impervious to damage.  Scratches in granite must be honed and polished out, chips must be filled in, and cracks must be repaired by a professional stone restoration contractor.
  • Improper sealing can lead to staining.
  • The popular marble-like look of white with gray veins is not found in granites.
  • One of the most expensive products due to its natural durability.

How to Care and Maintain Granite

Granite is fairly low-maintenance. Daily cleaning can be handled simply with mild dish soap and water. Avoid citrus cleaners as they will expedite the wearing off of the sealer’s coat. Granite is a very hard, durable stone requiring little TLC. Since granites are porous (not as porous as marble!), they do require sealing. We will apply a sealer when we fabricate your countertops. Once the sealer wears off, re-applying a fresh coat of sealer is an easy DIY task. No need to hire a professional to re-seal your stone!”

The Best Uses of Granite

Granite is commonly used to face commercial and institutional buildings and monuments due to its proven durability. Granite is the traditional favorite of countertop materials for its unique colors and patterns, high heat, scratch, and stain resistance, and lasting value.

Granite works well for all indoor applications, including fireplace surrounds. Honed or antiqued granites are great to use for outdoor kitchens.

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