Granite

Fact: Granite qualifies as impervious to water and is actually less absorbent than some solid surface (plastic) products. Granite is commonly used as building material for high-rise buildings due to its ability to withstand gale force winds and rain.

Fact: Granite is resistant to stains. Generally, any liquid spilled on a granite top, if wiped up within a few minutes, will not stain. However, even water can soak into a granite countertop and leave a dark-colored spot, but this will evaporate in minutes. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oils, will cause stains if left to soak into the stone.

Fact: Most stains can be removed. Even oil stains can usually be removed using a poultice or paste that will draw out the oil from the stone.

Fact: While this may be true of marble, granite will shine years from now just as if it was brand new. Granite is highly scratch-resistant and will not show wear from daily use.

Fact: Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is all that is generally required. Once a year, a re-application of a penetrating sealer should be performed, which only takes about 15 minutes. That’s less time than it takes to scour a solid surface countertop with a cleanser to remove scratches.

Fact: Granite is heat-resistant and can withstand the heat of hot pots and pans without damage. Impact from a heavy object may chip granite but heat from anything short of a blowtorch will not affect your countertop.

Fact: Granites are composed of a variety of minerals, each of which has specific performance properties. The hardest mineral commonly found in granite is quartz, which is normally a somewhat translucent, white- to gray-colored mineral.

Fact: Bacteria are found everywhere. If it is on a granite top, then it can also be found on a laminate or solid surface top. Use an anti-bacterial soap to wash your countertop if you are concerned.

Fact: Besides the fact that they are both natural stones and can be polished, they are otherwise very different. Marble is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of the mineral calcite, formed from oceanic deposits and then compressed under pressure. Granite is an igneous rock, essentially molten magma, which is cooled and then hardened below the earth’s surface.

Fact: Granite is usually competitively priced compared to other high-end surfacing materials. You will be amazed when you compare the price of granite to other popularly famed luxury surfaces. Granite offers you an unmatched value with its natural beauty, elegance and longevity.