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Granite

A common, coarse-grained, light-colored, hard igneous rock consisting chiefly of quartz, orthoclase or microcline, and mica, used in monuments and for building. Granite - Derived from the Italian word, "Granite" meaning "grained." It is a very hard, crystalline, igneous or metamorphic rock primarily composed of dark minerals. Mineral grains are visible to the naked eye. This material is frequently characterized as more resistant to damage (e.g.staining, etching, etc.), harder, and more uniform than marble, travertine, onyx, limestone or slate.

A crystalline igneous rock that consists largely of alkali feldspar (typically perthitic microcline or orthoclase), quartz, and plagioclase (commonly calcic albite or oligoclase). Its average grain size is 0.04–1.0 in. (1–25 mm); finer-grained rocks of this composition include rhyolite and aplite, and coarser-grained ones are granite pegmatite.

Granite rocks are igneous rocks which were formed by slowly cooling pockets of magma that were trapped beneath the earth's surface. Granite is used for long lasting monuments and for trim and decoration on buildings.

Material Notes:
Granite is an igneous rock with a mixed texture and grain size > 3 mm (plutonic). It is acidic, with a total silica content greater than 65%. The critical mineral of granite is quartz (5-35%); and also contains orthoclase feldspar, plagioclase feldspar, and smaller amounts of biotite.

Granite is used in architecture and construction because it is common and can possess a variety of textures and colors.

Granite is a primordial stone with naturally occurring variations in color and pattern. These variations, referred to as 'movement', should be expected and are the source of its natural beauty. Also, keep in mind that the veining in the granite can effect color perception. Sometimes two different grain sizes occurring in the same slab will appear to be of a different color. Mineral concentrations may cause patches that appear darker or lighter.

Every slab of granite varies somewhat within any given color and pattern. If you are unfamiliar with granite, a granite slab ordered may not be identical to a sample you are shown. While the samples are intended to represent the quarry's product, each slab may differ slightly in color and veining. Indeed, even a single granite slab will have color variations from one end to the other. This lack of predictability gives the product its unique character and adds an element of nature into human-designed spaces.

Countertops and Vanities

Granite countertops installation and fabrication costs can significantly affect the final price of your new granite countertops. Generally, the more complex the shape of the countertop and particularly the shape of the finished countertop edges, the higher the price will be. Fortunately, a single thickness plain polished edge makes an excellent appearance and most customers choose this standard. Occasionally, a customer will want a custom granite countertop edge pattern, possibly to match the edge to detailing on the cabinetry, and this can also be done. But keep in mind that if the granite fabricator has to buy custom cutting bits, he will add their cost to the price. Granite countertops are usually polished to a high gloss finish. Granite countertop installers may sell finished pieces, but granite slabs are always sold intact. The price of the granite countertop includes the cost of transportation, making field measurements and templates, cutting, polishing, delivery, and final installation. The total material required is determined by the layout and the amount of waste. The fabricator will try to lay out each job so as to minimize waste yet maximize the natural beauty of the veining and pattern.

Granite Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

Granite has a certain degree of porosity, as a natural stone product. Therefore, after installation, it must be cleaned and sealed. You can clean your countertops with only soap and water, but there are companies that specialize in granite countertop cleaning and sealing products.

Use a neutral, pH-balanced cleaner that is specially formulated to be used on stone on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills, as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Be careful with common foods and drinks that contain acids that may etch or dull your stone’s surface. Also, some common toiletries (i.e., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash, hairspray) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.

With the proper care, your granite or marble countertop will stay new-looking for years. Stone is one of the easiest surfaces to maintain. And granite, being 7 on the Mohs hardness scale of 1 to 10, is virtually unscratchable. (A stainless steel knife blade is a 6 on the scale.)

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