What is granite?
Granite is an igneous rock formed from cooling magma. Granite is quarried throughout the world, with colors and patterns that indicate the region and the geological conditions that created it. Each granite slab is unique, with random and inconsistent patterns providing such a beautiful and classic appearance.
Granite has been used for thousands of years by architects and engineers in prestigious buildings such as palaces, churches and stately homes. It is the building material chosen when it needs to last a long time, look beautiful, keep its appearance without deterioration or maintenance.
What is the Difference between Marble & Granite?
Both are natural stones quarried from the earth, along with Limestone, Travertine and Onyx. Granite is a very hard stone created deep in the earth, formed from crystallized minerals under extremely high pressure & temperature. Marble starts out as sediment - shells, plant matter, silt and even animal skeletons (you wanted to know) This super hot mass starts to rise after millions of years of resting on the bottom of bodies of water, it solidifies as it cools into a hard stone known as marble. **Note: Because it is naturally high in calcium content, Marble can be affected by acids such as fresh fruit drinks and even vinegar!
Why is granite suitable for kitchen and bathroom worktops?
Granite very attractive, practical and hygienic (it is easily sterilised) - an ideal choice for worktops. Features of granite include: it's tough, it has a glassy finish when polished which is very durable and will last for many years, it's waterproof, highly scratch resistant, heat resistant, keeps its colour and wipes clean easily.
Does Granite need Sealing?
Unsealed Granite is subject to some staining from cooking oils for instance, but occasional resealing, subject to amount of usage, will preserve the great look of this beautiful product!
Can Marble be used on counters?
Honed Finished Marble may be used on kitchen counters, because it's surface already has an "etched matte finish" that tends to help conceal some the utensil marks. **Note: Remember Marble is softer than Granite and is subject to acid damage and you will need to apply a stone sealer as needed.
Can Marble be used on floors?
While Granite works better than Marble for floors, Marble Floors have been around for ages. A matte finished Marble Tile is the generally the best choice for a floor, because it is less apt to show scratches and foot traffic wear. The matte finish also tends to give a softer and less formal appearance, while maintaining the natural beauty of the stone.
Is Green Marble different than other marbles?
Some Green Marble is not really marble at all. They are generally created from a different material entirely, called serpentinites or serpentines. While "Green Marble" tends to be very hard, do not etch and unaffected by acids, they do have a unique quirk. Green Marble tends to curl if installed using a water based adhesive, so an epoxy adhesive is required.
What is the best way to care for Marble or Granite?
You should always use cleaners and sealers designed specifically for use with natural stone products. These special products are really not difficult to use and usually provide the desired results. **Note: Never use any powdered cleanser including "Soft Scrub" on your natural stone tiles. Never use oil based or acidic cleaning products (including ammonia and Windex) as these will cause damage or stain Marble or Granite Stone. |