Are you considering granite countertops for an updated look in your kitchen or bath? Granite offers a highly durable and low maintenance option guaranteed to bring the beauty of your home to the next level.
Let’s answer some questions you may have about granite and granite countertops.
How is granite made?
Granite is a natural stone made organically by the process of magma crystallization formed below the Earth’s surface – yes, your granite countertops were lava at one point! Made of up of natural quartz, felspar, mica, amphiboles and other organic minerals, granite can come in many colors and patterns.
Where does granite come from?
To find quality stone for granite countertops, the majority of the world’s granite is quarried in Brazil, Italy, India, and China. Each region has its own unique characteristics in the stone’s appearance from colors that vary from exotic reds and blues to more earthy blacks, browns and greens.
Why are there color and pattern variations in granite?
Because granite is a natural product, the stone itself is created purely by Mother Nature–no two pieces of granite are identical. The combination of mineral crystals, such as quartz and feldspar, are what gives granite its unique characteristics. For example, mica is responsible for forming the black flecks and veins; quartz produces the lighter gray veins; and feldspar contributes he white components in granite.
Unlike some other countertop materials, granite will never fade or change color over time.
What colors are available for quartz countertops?
There are literally hundreds of variations of color and patterns for granite countertops and are typically grouped into these colors: beige, black, blue, brown, burgundy, gray, green, red, yellow, and white. Visit our showroom and you can see all these beautiful granite slabs for yourself!
What finishes are available for granite countertops?
You can choose from several finishes for your granite countertop including polished, honed, satin, antique, leather and thermal or flamed finish.
A polished finish, the most popular finish, offers a reflective, mirror-like glossy appearance. The polished finish also has the best rating when it comes to protecting your countertops from scratching and staining.
The honed finish provides a matte look, which has a soft, powdery look. Although the honed finish is a relatively popular choice, it is more susceptible to scratching and staining. The satin finish, while very similar to the honed finish, has a smooth, soft finish but has a more vibrant appearance.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you may like the leathered finish which is similar to the satin finish with a texturized appearance that feels similar to aniline leather. The antique finish offers the small sense of texture similar to the leathered finish, but has a matte, brushed appearance.
The thermal finish (also known as a “flamed finish”) heats up the granite surface with extremely high temperatures causing the individual stones in the granite to burst and change color. The result is a rougher texture with a more natural, faded appearance. This granite finish is best for high-moisture areas including showers and exterior living spaces such as firepits, outdoor kitchens and uncovered areas.
Is granite durable?
Granite is one of the most durable products on the market due to its natural creation process. It takes thousands of years of extreme pressure to create making it extremely dense. The strength of granite rivals that of diamonds, which are actually used to cut the stone into slabs at quarries.
How much maintenance is involved for granite countertops?
When cared for properly, your granite countertops can look like new for a lifetime. After installation of your new countertops, the installers will apply a professional-grade granite sealer which helps prevents staining and scratches. You will need to re-seal the surface to maintain durability and appearance – be sure to ask your installer about preferred products and timing.
Cleaning your granite countertops is easy and inexpensive – you don’t need those pricey specialty cleaners. Use a soft cloth, warm water and a non-abrasive soap. You can also use a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. To keep your granite looking its best, do not use vinegar, lemon, Windex or bleach as these acidic substances will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. In addition, don’t use abrasive cleaner or pads as they can scratch the surface and finish of your countertops.
Granite countertops can take a high-end kitchen to the next level. With more than 20 shades of granite available, you’ll find one that blends perfectly with your kitchen cabinets, flooring and walls.
Talk to our professionals for more information on granite countertops.
