One of nature’s most beautiful creations is the natural stone we know as granite. Granite and other hard natural stone products have experienced an incredible 2000% increase in sales over the last ten years as homeowners take advantage of the strength, beauty and durability of natural stone that commercial builders have enjoyed for years.  Homeowners are using elegant polished granite for countertops, flooring, backsplashes, fireplace hearths, and shower or tub surrounds.

Granite is an igneous rock that is formed from magma and has a medium to course grained texture.  It usually contains quartz, feldspar and mica crystals, and it is the presence of quartz that gives granite its durability and hardness.

Granite construction is far from new; in fact the ancient Egyptians used granite extensively in their building.  The Red Pyramid, built in the 26th century BC, is the third largest pyramid and is named for the crimson hue of its granite surface.  Many large Hindu temples in Southern India were built in the 11th century from granite.  The city of Aberdeen in Scotland is sometimes referred to as “The Granite City” due to the extensive use of granite in its construction, primarily in the foundations of the houses. 

Once your granite countertop, shower surround or floor is installed it should be sealed with a PH breathable sealer, which should be reapplied at least twice per year in order to prevent staining.  Granite, especially the highly polished granite used in most residential construction, is naturally quite stain resistant.  However, micro fissures occur where the feldspar, mica and quartz crystals interconnect, which can lead to staining if it is not properly sealed.  Oil that is allowed to seep into the stone is particularly detrimental to the granite, making the sealer a necessity for bathrooms and kitchen countertops.

The addition of granite into a home can add tremendous value and style.  A granite fireplace hearth and surround will add warmth and elegance to a family room while a granite countertop will add class and style to the kitchen.  Granite floors in the bathroom paired with a granite shower and tub surround will transform an ordinary bathroom into a luxurious one.

If you are considering installing granite into your home or business, consider hiring a professional granite installation company such as Precision Marble and Tile to ensure you attain the results you desire.