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TYPES OF NATURAL STONE
PRODUCTS
Granite: The hardest
natural material available for countertops, Granite is composed
of a variety of minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica.
For quality, durable countertops, nothing compares to granite.
It is also easy to clean and maintain.
Granite countertops offer a unique, rich, natural look. As
granite was formed within the earth's crust, it is one of
the hardest materials available. Granite countertops provide
a "stress-free" alternative to other types because granite
resists stains or scratches. While more expensive than some
alternative materials, the natural beauty of granite provides
a lifetime of enjoyment. It comes in a wide variety of color
options.
Marble: Popular stone
used throughout the ages due to unique patterns and colors.
Relatively hard material, but is not as hard as granite. Classified
into groups A, B, C, and D, which indicate the fabrication
ease based on the hardness characteristics. It is very popular
for fireplace surrounds, bar-tops, and vanities. In certain
environments, marble may stain. With proper care and maintenance,
marble is relatively easy to maintain. Marble is available
in a wide range of color options.
Limestone: Is very porous
and offers a rustic or aged appearance. Caution is urged when
choosing limestone for countertops or bathroom vanities as
it stains and scratches more easily as it is the softest natural
material available. An acrylic-based sealer is recommended
to protect the stone and add a sheen to the appearance. Limestone
is popular for flooring and fireplace surrounds. Several color
options are available.
Slate: A rustic material
offering a unique weathered look. It is available in a variety
of sizes and thicknesses to suit specific needs. Slate can
have a honed or cleft finish and is ideal for flooring due
to its natural beauty. However, it is not the best choice
for kitchen countertops as it is a relatively soft material
that requires higher maintenance levels and can stain easily.
Slate color options include: black, gray, rust, green, graphite,
and plum.
Travertine: A material
which begins as porous limestone, then becomes filled in most
applications. It is comprised of large quantities of calcium
carbonate formed by calcium rich hot springs that bubble up,
and then cool down. Often considered an ornamental stone,
travertine is popular for flooring, vanities, or in bathroom
applications. Various colors are available.
Color: Both granite
and marble come in a wide variety of colors. Many samples
are available to choose from at our showroom. Customers also
have the option of looking at actual full slabs stored in
our warehouse.
Finish: Granite and
marble countertops are available in two types of finishes.
The most popular, polished, offers a beautiful look and is
extremely resistant to staining and scratching. The second
is a honed finish which has a unique "matte–look", but
reveals the same colors as a polished finish does. It offers
more of a weathered look.
Edge Details: A variety
of edge details are available for countertops. Standard options
include an Eased edge finish. Others include the Full Bullnose,
Half Bullnose, Full Ogee, Large Bevel, and others.
Fact or Myth—All Granites
Are Dark In Color?
Some people seem to have the misconception that
all granite available is dark in color. This in fact is untrue.
There are many colors available that are light, and some are
even classified as being white granite.
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