Granite is composed of feldspar and quartz, and is a common mineral that is probably as old as the earth. It is formed when liquid magma slowly cools, resulting in a substance almost as hard and durable as a diamond. The hardness and density are the result of its solidifying under extreme pressure within the earth.
What makes up the various colours in Granite?
The various colours of Granite are caused by different metal oxides that contaminate pure forms of quartz and feldspar. Some are variegated in colour, the result of major disturbance such as earthquakes that occurred eons ago. The size of the crystals in Granite also varies. In general, the slower a Granite cools, the larger the crystals. And the faster it cools, the smaller the crystals. Granite of the same name can vary depending on when and where it was quarried.
Are Granite counters expensive?
If you compare Granite to other hard surface materials is it not expensive and the beauty will last forever. Also the resale value will grow with time.
Does Granite stain?
In general, no. All stone, however, is porous to some extent, but Granite has very little porosity. Most colours will never show any moisture. A few colours may show some moisture if exposed for a period of time. For example, a puddle of water left on the counter for 30 minutes for some colours, may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. This spot will then dry up and no evidence will show.
Can you scratch Granite?
Granite is one of the hardest stones available. It cannot be scratched in ordinary use; however, we still recommend the use of a cutting board for such purposes. Also, under normal usage, Granite does not chip either.
Will seams show and how are they made?
Because Granite is a natural material and is mined from the quarry in blocks usually no more than 10’ long, you will end up with seams. Also, because Granite is sold in rectangular pieces, you may want to use seams to reduce your costs, such as in a “L” shaped corner. The visibility of seams will depend on the granularity, colour, and pattern. A small, uniform grain (such as Rosa Beta) will not be as apparent as a larger varied grain (such as Baltic Brown). A dark colour (Emerald Pearl) will be less apparent than a light colour (Giallo Ornamental). A dramatic pattern with swaths of colour (Giallo Veneziano) will show more seams than a uniform pattern (Dakota Mahogany). Most customers have found that the beauty of natural Granite outweighs the concern of seams. Seams are done where the granite joins with a smooth, straight cut; a small bead of epoxy is placed along the seam to seal it.
How are sinks done?
Sinks are either over mount or under mount. Sinks come in a variety of materials, including stainless steel, ceramic and as well as some synthetics. A cutout needs to be made in the granite to accommodate the sink. The sink will have directions and a template for the cutout.
What is the difference between an over mount and an under mount sink?
An over mount sink sits on the top of the cutout in your Granite counter while an under mount sink sits beneath the cutout. There is generally an extra polishing charge required in preparing a Granite countertop for an under mount sink.
Are all Granite kitchen counters a high gloss finish?
No, there are several different finishes you can order; the highly polished finish is just the most popular. There is a process called “honing” that gives the stone a more matte finish yet, retains its smooth feel.
Does it take a long time to install a granite kitchen countertop and what is the process?
The installation does not take very long. It normally takes 2 to 5 hours, depending on the size of the job. This usually depends on the number of joint(s) the particular countertop or vanity top might have. If there are no joints, it will take no longer than 1 ½ to 3 hours. There are a number of steps before a granite countertop can be installed. This all depends on your existing cabinetry. **If it is a “New kitchen with new cabinetry” then there is little work to be done. **But, if it is an “Existing Kitchen with existing countertops and plumbing” then a little more work is required to done before the installation of the new countertop can take place. (Please refer to “Kitchen / Vanity Countertop Templating Checklist” for more details.)
The process to get granite countertop: a)If you have hired a contractor, then you do not have to worry or do anything at all besides deciding on the color of granite and which nosing (edge) you want to go with. b)Or, if you have the experience and can handle this kind of work without any help, then all you need to do is: 1st – You will need to find a fabricator; who would manufacture the tops for you. You would need to bring them your kitchen layout. (a rough measurement of your countertops) 2nd – Then, you would get an estimate from the fabricator based on how big your countertops are, the type of granite that you have picked and the nosing (edge). With those three key factors, any fabricator would be able to give you an estimated price. 3rd – Based on which ever “Existing” situation you might have. If you do have existing countertops you would need them to be removed and plumbing to be disconnected. Please discuss with your fabricator for this extra service. 3rd – When both parties agree on the price, a templater will visit your home to do an accurate measurement of your countertop(s). Normally, the waiting time to produce your countertop takes around 3 to 4 weeks, depending on the schedule of your fabricator. In the mean time that you are waiting for your new countertop to be installed or replaced, you might want to have a temporally cooking facility or unit. (due to the fact that some wires/plumbing might be disconnected or cleared for the installation process)
