Getting to know granite
Is granite a good surface to choose for homes and businesses?
Granite is a natural stone of choice in both residential and commercial settings, due to its strength, beauty, and durability. Whether used for kitchen worktops, flooring, or cladding, it offers a premium look with practical benefits.
But how does it compare to other popular materials like marble and terrazzo? Here we take a look at where granite comes from, its pros and cons, and its suitability for various applications.
What exactly is granite?
– Granite is an igneous rock formed over millions of years through the slow crystallisation of magma beneath the Earth’s surface.
– Composed mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica, it is one of the hardest natural stones available.
– Granite is quarried from countries around the world, including India, Brazil, and China.
– It is then cut into slabs for use in homes and commercial buildings.
Why would I opt for granite?
Strength and durability
One of granite’s biggest selling points is its toughness. It is highly resistant to scratches and chips, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchen worktops, commercial flooring and bar tops. It also handles heat well, which is why it is often used in fireplace surrounds and kitchen settings where hot pans may be placed on surfaces.
Aesthetic appeal
With a wide variety of colours and patterns, granite adds elegance to any space. Each slab is unique, featuring natural veining and speckles that give it real character. This is one of the reasons it is so attractive for homeowners and businesses looking to create a high-end look.
Low maintenance
Granite requires minimal maintenance, especially when properly sealed. Unlike marble, which is more porous and prone to staining, granite resists spills and moisture penetration, making it easier to clean. Regular sealing helps maintain its appearance and durability over time.
Versatility
Granite is suitable for a range of applications, including:
– Kitchen worktops: a popular choice for its durability and heat resistance.
– Bathroom surfaces: ideal for vanity tops and shower surrounds.
– Flooring: provides a luxurious yet practical flooring solution for homes, hotels, and retail spaces.
– Fireplace surrounds: withstand high temperatures while adding a stylish touch.
– Outdoor use: can be used for patios, outdoor kitchens, and cladding due to its weather resistance.
Granite compared to marble and terrazzo
Each of these materials has distinct advantages:
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Granite vs marble: marble is known for its classic veining and luxurious appeal, but it is actually softer and more porous than granite. While marble can develop a patina over time, granite remains resistant to scratches and stains, making it more practical for everyday use.
Granite vs terrazzo: terrazzo is a composite material offering a contemporary aesthetic. It is often preferred for large-scale commercial projects as it offers a seamless flooring finish and more options for customisation. While granite provides a natural look, terrazzo allows for more design flexibility and, increasingly, sustainable options, such as recycled materials and eco-friendly binders.
What you need to consider with granite
Despite its many advantages, granite does have some downsides:
Weight: granite is heavy, requiring strong cabinetry or sub-flooring for support.
Sealing: while it is less porous than marble, granite still needs initial then periodic sealing to maintain its stain resistance.
Cost: high-quality granite can be expensive, though it is often more affordable than premium marble.
Limited design flexibility: unlike terrazzo, which can be customised with different colours and patterns, granite is limited to natural variations. However, it is a naturally beautiful surface!
Is granite the right choice for you?
Granite remains a solid investment for both residential and commercial spaces, particularly for its combination of durability, aesthetic appeal and low maintenance. While marble offers a more refined look and terrazzo allows for customisation, granite strikes a balance between beauty and resilience.
For homeowners seeking a robust yet elegant surface, granite is an excellent option.
In commercial spaces, it delivers both practicality and prestige, making it a great choice for hotels, office buildings and retail environments.
If you’re considering granite for your next project, ensure proper installation and maintenance to maximise its lifespan. With the right care, this timeless material can enhance your space for decades to come.
Ordering granite from Diespeker
Diespeker offers a wide range of granite with around 100 different types available. Some are kept in stock so you can visit to see the slabs or order samples. Others will need to be ordered in. We have deliveries every week and usual timescales are 4 weeks for European marble, 7 weeks outside of Europe.
Contact us for more information.