Granite countertops and vanities have the mark of elegance and
endurance, adding visual and long-lasting practical benefits
as well as significant resale value to properties.
The surface of granite is distinctive; a speckled and densely patterned effect that
is both decorative and subtle at the same time. The durability of granite countertops
and vanities is unquestionable, as granite is one of the hardest substances on earth.
As such, granite serves well in areas that are typified by high-traffic, and in areas
where abrasion and heat � like kitchens, for instance � are the norm.
Granite is rightly sought-after for tried-and-tested natural stone building materials
that appeal to everyone.
How Granite is Formed
Granite is an igneous rock, meaning that it is the result of liquid magma cooling
over the course of millions of years, while holding in mineral elements such as
quartz, feldspar, and mica, among others as it does so. Not only do these elements
contribute to the color of the granite as it forms, but they also act as stabilizing
agents too. This is what makes granite such a hard substance.
This process also explains the surface of granite � the tightly arranged, granular
patterns which make granite such a strikingly attractive choice in tile, pavers,
countertops, and as wall cladding too.
How Granite is Processed at the Factory
Granite is removed from the earth in enormous blocks and transported to the
factory to be cut. The cutting process is usually done by means of a water jet
and diamond saw, into slabs, tiles, and other more manageable forms. The granite
is then separated by color, and is further separated for the purposes of polishing.
Polishing granite is usually on one side only, rendering the familiar gloss by
which granite is popularly recognized.
Granite Slabs and Countertop Kits and Vanities
The use of granite for countertops and vanities, with accompanying backsplashes has been a practice in place for decades. The benefits are obvious; granite is a substance which is resistant to:
- metal abrasion resistant
- impact resistant
- heat resistant
Properly sealed, granite is also moisture-resistant, serving very well in
bathrooms as
vanity tops. Traditional granite slabs remain to be popular features in kitchens
and bath areas. And with the recent innovation of granite countertop kits
and modular counters, the installation of granite countertops in a medium-to-large sized kitchen has added yet another
level of benefit when is comes to convenience and ease of installation.