Question 1

Why Choose Granite?

Accepted Answer

Granite is hard and highly scratch resistant.

Due to its composition of quartz and feldspars (7 and 6 on the Hardness Scale, respectively), it is more durable than softer stones such as marble or travertine and man-made materials such as acrylics, polyesters or laminates.

The glossy finish will endure years of use in even the busiest kitchens without being refinished.

Question 2

How is Granite made?

Accepted Answer

Granite is a natural stone.

Crystallized under tremendous pressure deep underground, granite is a naturally formed stone mined from quarries around the world.

Every granite countertop can be considered a limited edition because there is a finite supply of granite in any given quarry.

Natural stones are quarried directly from the earth's crust, and every piece is unique. The only processing they need is shaping into various forms, sizes, and finishes.

Question 3

What are the Granite advantages?

Accepted Answer

For elegance and durability, granite is unmatched.

Its incredible strength and density make it the perfect choice for massive structural work – walls, monuments, and supports. Though it is the hardest of structural stones, the amazing variety of mineral-rich colors and natural patterns gives it ornamental value as well.

Granite products are ideal for countertops, vanities and decorative exterior applications.

Question 4

Why is granite preferred for kitchen and bar countertops?

Accepted Answer

Countertops in kitchens and bar areas are often exposed to acidic substances such as lemon, vinegar, alcohol, and tomato sauce.

Knives, dishes, pots and pans, and other implements may cause scratching of lesser materials. Granite is the hardest and densest of all-natural stones and the silicates it contains won't react with acid.

These properties help Granite resist staining and retain its fine luster over a longer period of time than ceramic tiles or other stones.

Question 5

What care and maintenance of granite are recommended?

Accepted Answer

Stone surfaces are very easy to maintain.

Clean stone floors with warm water and mild liquid soap. Never use acid cleansers or abrasive chemicals on stone. Granite stone should be sealed after installation and every one to two years thereafter, depending on its application.

Question 6

Why does granite need to be sealed?

Accepted Answer

All natural stone including granite must be properly sealed to protect against staining.

Without proper and regular sealing, granite and other natural stones are pourous and can absorb spilled substances and leave unsightly stains and marks. A sealer that penetrates and protects natural stone and tile can be purchased at any home improvement or hardware store.

St. Laurent

Related Images

• St. Laurent (New)

Sign up for a Free In-Home Consultation

Sign up for a Free In-Home Consultation