Granite, which is an igneous rock found in either the earth’s crust or above ground, is mostly quartz and feldspar. Due to the way it has formed through the cooling of molten lava over time, it has a number of qualities that make it perfect for building and decorative purposes.
For instance, granite countertops are one of the most durable and sought-after material choices for the home. As we handle granite countertops so frequently at Marble & Granite Ltd, we’re in an excellent position to outline the key characteristics of granite rock and why it makes such a right choice for your home worktop.
If you need more information about this material choice or would like some advice on the specific options that might work for your home, get in touch with us directly, and we’ll be happy to help.
Durability
Work surfaces like kitchen countertops will take a significant amount of punishment over the years, whether from heavy pots and pans or appliances that you place on them. As granite is one of the most reliable and most durable materials, granite surfaces will retain their original quality regardless of the kind of treatment you and your family subject it.
Appearance
Granite has a certain kind of appeal that trumps many human-made materials. It’s one of the most beautiful natural stone materials you can find on the market and comes in hundreds of different styles and variations. All you need to do is visit our online gallery of granite types to see the many amazing options you can choose.
Whether you prefer classic and minimal granite formations or unique and eye-catching countertops that reflect light amazingly, granite is a popular choice for homeowners based on its distinctive appearance alone.
Stain Resistant
The beautiful finish your granite countertop has when it first installed in your home will usually stay as immaculate as it always was, despite various spillages of sauces or other food accidents. It is not 100% stain proof as a natural material, but with the right sealing treatment, you won’t be able to cause any serious discoloration to the surface (unless you try!).
Heat Resistant
As you might have guessed from its origins as molten lava, Granite can handle a significant amount of heat if it needs to. Hot pots, crock pots or pans can generally be placed directly on the surface without much concern. However, with very extreme heat applied over a long period to specific areas of your countertop, there is a small risk of cracking. Therefore, still recommended that you use a trivet or heat diffuser mat.
Prestige
Many of our clients come to us for granite countertops at Marble & Granite Ltd due to the material’s prestige alone!
Igneous rocks, made from melted lave, are quite an impressive origin story for your granite countertop. If the mood strikes you, you can let your guests know how your favourite work surface has formed by the cooling and solidification of magma, which was first melted by the very heat of the earth.
Uses of Granite as a Decorative Stone
Granite often used as a decorative material for large public buildings or interior and exterior decoration projects. As well as long-term stability, it offers a luxurious quality that will stand the test of time.
When polished, the smoothness of a granite slab can be a great choice for walls, floors, exterior surfaces on buildings and columns. Stairs, sculptures, bar surfaces, and even furniture have also made from granite. More rough style granite is also commonly used for exterior walls, creating a sturdy and simplistic appearance used in many towns and cities around the world.
How Are Granite Countertops Made?
After it has quarried, granite will be treated or fabricated in different ways depending on the intended application. For countertops, large granite blocks will cut into thinner granite slabs. Other shaping and finishing treatments will then be applied to finalise a countertop design. And when you’re browsing granite worktops in Wood Green or Knightsbridge, remember that the end product is often a result of careful curation and treatment.
Granite Countertop Advantages
- Amazingly strong and durable
- A more eco-friendly countertop option that certain manmade alternatives
- Resistant to scratches and damage
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Adds value and aesthetic charm to any property
Need Some Help?
If you’re stuck whether to go with a granite countertop or which countertop is best suited to your home, get in touch with us at Marble & Granite Ltd, and we’ll fill in any gaps in your knowledge and advise you on what we think would work best for your preferences and budget.
