Granite tile has the mark of elegance and endurance, adding visual and long-lasting practical benefits as tile, cladding, pavers, and tile-based countertops in particular.
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 is unquestionable, as it 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.
Versatility is also a strong point, as granite is utilized in a number of places:
- Residential settings
- Commercial settings
- Interiors
- Exteriors
- Flooring tile and countertops
- Wall cladding
Granite tile 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, which 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 into Tile
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. The granite tile is then separated by color, and is further separated for polishing. Polishing granite tile is usually done on one side only, rendering the familiar gloss by which granite tile is popularly recognized. From here, the granite tiles are packaged and shipped.