|
Where is granite found?
Granite is quarried from the earth with specialized equipment and machinery. It is found all over the world. A few parts of the world where granite is quarried: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, Finland, India, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Ukraine, USA, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
What is the difference between marble and granite countertops?
The look, first and foremost. The maintenance and care of the stones will also vary. Marble is a softer stone, and it will etch easier. It is a more delicate natural stone when compared to granite.
What is the strength of granite?
Granite is a very strong and durable natural stone. The actual strength of a specific piece of granite will vary depending on the stone and where it was quarried.
Will my granite countertop break?
With heavy abuse. With normal every day wear and tear, no. (Our company) is happy to provide tips on properly caring for your countertop.
Do I need to seal my granite countertops?
This depends on the granite you choose. As a rule of thumb, "the lighter stones need to be sealed and the darker ones don't."
What is etching?
Etching is when acids from items such as lemons, alcohols, and even some cleaning products leave dull spots or rings on a stone.
Will my granite etch?
It shouldn't. Granite is a siliceous natural stone and not highly reactive to acids like a marble or a limestone. If your granite is sealed, the sealer may etch.
Can I cut on my granite countertops?
Yes, you can. Granite is very hard and will dull your knives. Little slivers of the knife may become embedded in your countertop. This is very noticeable with darker granites.
Will granite chip?
It can. If it chips, it is usually around the sink or near an edge. The chip is usually small and not visible, but you can feel it. This is easy to repair. A colored epoxy is used to fill in the small area. If you did get a larger chip, save the chip so it can be used to repair your countertop.
Will granite scratch?
No, not usually. The only things that may scratch it are diamonds, other pieces of granite, and some green kitchen scrub pads. Granite can only be scratched by materials that are harder than granite.
Will granite burn?
No, it can withstand heat up to 1,200F. You can set hot pots on your granite countertop without worrying about charring or scorching your granite.
What are seams and do I need them?
Seams are joints where two pieces of stone meet or join together. Granite slabs are very big but larger kitchens may need a seam or 2. If you have curves, arches, or really long spans of granite, you will usually need seams.
What is the weight of granite?
The weight of granite depends on its density. The average 3/4"-thick granite weighs 13 pounds per square foot, 1 1/4"-thick granite weighs around 18 to 20 pounds per square foot, and 2"-thick granite weighs about 30 pounds per square foot. The darker stones are usually heavier than the lighter stones.
What is the thickness of a granite countertop?
2cm = 3/4", 3cm = 1 1/4"; 3cm is the preferred thickness for granite countertops.
Will my cabinets support granite countertops?
Most cabinets will as long as they're sturdy. Granite spreads its weight out like a waterbed does. Your cabinets may need to be reinforced if they are not sturdy enough.
Do I need underlayment?
Not with 1 1/4" granite. If you plan to use 3/4", you may. It depends on the type of granite you choose.
What are some of the uses of granite?
It is used on exteriors and interiors of homes and commercial buildings. The most common uses are for headstones and kitchen countertops. Some other examples include: fireplaces, bars, vanities, sinks, cabinet handles, outlet switch plate covers, tables, walls, benches, fountains, shower surrounds, flooring...If you can imagine it, you can use granite!
How do I clean granite countertops?
A mild dish soap and water will work. But, a soap build up may occur over time if you don't rinse your countertops well.
What are some of the granite countertop colors?
There are hundreds of colors and color combinations. The "groups" of colors are white, black/gray, brown, blue, green, red, pink, yellow, and violet.
|
