What is Granite and What it is usually used for?

The term "granite" is used to cover a group of related stones, all of which have their origin deep in the earth′s molten mantle. As this extremely hot liquid material rises and cools, it forms a crystalline, granular structure, hence the term granite. Granite and other granite-like stones are formed of very hard minerals such as quarts, feldspar and mica, which are fused together into a very hard stone ideal for kitchen countertops because its polish is resistant to acids such as citrus and vinegar and is hard for resisting scratching from knives, pots and pans.

Granite is commonly used for countertops as well as for floor tiles, wall tiles, other surfaces such as fireplaces, columns, balustrades, water tables, steps, thresholds & windowsills. It′s much harder then marble and can be used practically for anything in your home or business.

Today′s designers choose granite as the ultimate custom countertop material. Every home magazine features natural stone over other plastic or artificial products. And thanks to our improved fabrication processes, natural stone is also priced competitively with other solid surface alternatives. Contact us to find out how granite countertops and natural stones in general can enhance your home!

Why is it a good choice to have a GRANITE countertop for the kitchen?

Because granite is a very hard stone that′s formed at very high temperatures deep in the earth, its polish is not subject to etching by household acids, or scratching by knives, pots and pans. It′s unaffected by typical kitchen heat, such as hot pans, or spilled liquid.

Can granite countertops be damaged?

Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite countertops. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard objects. Unsealed, granite countertops can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite countertops under normal circumstances.

What is flamed granite?

Granite is flamed by applying blowtorch-strength heat to the surface of the stone. This causes the surface to melt and some of the crystals to shatter, leaving a highly textured surface which is ideal for exterior paving or wet areas for non-slipperiness.

What is honed granite?

Strictly speaking, granite is called "honed" when the polishing process is halted just before a reflective shiny surface is achieved. This gives a softer, matte appearance to the stone.

My little sample of granite has pits on the surface - will I have these on my granite countertops?

Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits - spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don′t see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite countertops sometimes have natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite millions years ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material.

Can I cut on my granite countertop?

Yes. However, granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them quickly, if you use the countertop as a cutting surface. Also, if you do not seal your countertop as required (at least once a year; every 90 days for heavy usage), you could potentially stain them. NEVER CHOP on your countertop. While it is unlikely you will damage your granite countertops, it is possible. It′s a reliable routine to always chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.

Marble Countertop FAQ

Marble Countertops

Marble products are processed from blocks that are quarried all over the world. This metamorphic rock is comprised primarily of calcium carbonate and other minerals that create a wide variety of colors.

Marble is commonly used for vanities, floor tiles, wall tiles, & other surfaces such as fireplaces, columns, balustrades, water tables, steps, thresholds & windowsills.

Can I use a marble countertop for my kitchen?

Marble countertops can be scratched more easily than harder stone such as granite. Marble is sometimes used in the kitchen as a pastry slab; its perfectly smooth, cool surface is ideal for rolling out dough and piecrusts. However keep in mind that the ideal material for the kitchen is granite. Marble pieces that have a honed finish will not etch because their surfaces start out with a matte finish.

Because marble (and limestone) are calcium carbonate, the polished surface is more vulnerable to household acids including vinegar, mustard, ketchup, citrus and a host of other food-related products. These acidic substances cause a chemical reaction that will remove the polish.

What is marble?

It is a natural stone formed from fossil sediment deposits, which have been placed under the earth′s tremendous pressure for at least a few million years. The combination of the natural materials in these deposits, along with natural geologic events, produces unique veining with a richness of depth and intensity. Marble material is generally softer than granite, therefore scratching occurs more so on marble. This characteristic should be considered when making your stone selection. Generally, marble countertops are recommended for such places as: bathrooms, bar tops, fireplaces, etc; and granite countertops are generally utilized for kitchen countertops. Aside from our recommendations, if so desired, Marble can be used for any countertop.

Marble is available in a multitude of colors from light to dark, and generally boasts beautiful flowing veins. This unequalled beauty makes marble a natural choice for countertops, bath vanities, wall and floor tiles or slabs, and tub and fireplace surrounds.

Commercially, the term "marble" applies to any compact limestone that will take a polish, which includes most of the colored marbles, except some of the greens.

Does green marble countertop require special treatment?

Some green stones, such as the "jades" from Taiwan, are not truly marble, but a different material called serpentinite.

Serpentinites, or serpentines, as they are sometimes called, do not etch or react to acids the way limestone and marble do, and are somewhat harder. Green tiles of this family must always be installed with an epoxy adhesive to prevent the curling that can take place if a water-based setting material is used.

What is honed marble or limestone and where can it be used?

Marble or limestone that is honed has a matte or satin finish, rather than a high reflective polish. This is achieved at the factory by stopping just short of the last stage of polishing. One feature of honed marble is that it doesn't show etching as readily, or wear patterns on floors. Some prefer it because it has a less formal, softer appearance than polished stone and is also a good choice for marble countertops.

What is etching?

Etching happens when acid in some form comes in contact with a polished marble or limestone surface. This causes a chemical reaction that removes the polish, or roughens the surface of honed stone. Green marbles, such as the "jades" from China are resistant to etching, and granite is impervious to any common household acids

Can your company make a custom marble countertop for me?

Yes, we can build a custom marble countertop for you. Our custom made countertop is also a very affordable option for our customers.

What′s the best way to clean stone countertops and other stone surfaces?

The rule of thumb is never to use anything you wouldn't′t normally use on your hands. Never use powdered cleansers or abrasive pads to clean your stone. Even "soft scrub" type cleaners contain pumice, which is powdered volcanic stone, and might damage your stone countertops or floors. Never use any product that is acidic; this includes substances like ammonia or many common liquid cleaners such as Windex. You should always use sealers and cleaning products designed specifically for natural stone.