What is granite?
Granite is defined as a visibly granular, igneous rock generally ranging in color from pink to light or dark gray and consisting mostly of quartz and feldspars accompanied by
one or more dark minerals. The texture is typically homogenous but may be gneissic or porphytic. Some dark granular igneous rocks, though not properly granite, are
included in this definition.
Where does granite come from and how is it quarried?
Granite, is quarried at different locations throughout the world. Hundreds of colors and patterns are available from such countries as Italy, Spain, France, China, Brazil, and
The United States. Typically, blocks are extracted from the granite quarry located high in the mountains on the outskirts of a major city. These blocks, averaging 9 feet by 5
feet by 5 feet deep in size are transported down the mountain to the fabrication plant in the city. Once at the plant, these blocks are either cut into tiles or slabs. Tiles are
usually cut to standard sizes of 12" x 12", 16" x 16", 18" x 18" and 24" x 24". Tiles range in thickness from 3/8" to 3/4". Slabs sizes usually vary depending on overall block
size. Average slab sizes are usually 9 feet by 5 feet and are typically 3/4" (2cm) or more in thickness. After the tiles or slabs are cut, they are sent through a large multi-
head polishing machine, which puts a natural shine on the face of the stone using abrasive compound bricks or diamond polishing discs. Tiles are usually beveled as a final
finishing step. Several other finishes can be applied to the slabs or tiles at this time such as a honed finish or, on some granite, a flamed finish. By far, the most popular
finish tends to be the high polish.
What colors are granites available in?
Granites are available in a wide range of colors and veining. There are beige colors, Emerald green tones, Reds, Blacks, Violets, Mauves and a host of others. The color of
the stone is dependent upon what region of the world the stone comes from. Some colors have been in use for hundreds of years; others are fairly new to the market.
Some stones are available in slabs and tiles; others are only available in either slab or tile but not both. The size of the quarry, its location, accessibility and demand for
the material will affect pricing. Labor costs in various countries also affects material costs. Technology is not the same in all countries, so beware of stones manufactured
with inferior and outdated technology. These materials are usually not difficult to spot.
What should I know about color variation & veining?
When granite is purchased within the same lot or bundle, variations in color and veining should be expected and considered. In this situation, each slab or tile when
viewed overall will look like it belongs with the remainder of the lot. In most cases, bundles of slabs are cut consecutively from the same block so as to keep color and
veining consistent.
When granite is purchased at different times or from different lots and bundles, extreme variation in color and veining can occur. As quarrying continues, materials from
different sections of the quarry or from different depths of the quarry can vary greatly. In certain cases, quarries have run out of certain shades or the veining has
changed so drastically that current lots no longer match previous lots. For these reasons, it is important to purchase sufficient quantities at the same time or verify that
additional material of the same lot is indeed available for a later purchase. Being a natural stone, variations from shipment to shipment or lot to lot cannot be controlled or
predicted.
What can granite be used for?
Due to it's high density, acid resistance, low absorption rate, and scratch resistance, granite can be used for a wide range of applications including floors, fireplaces,
furniture and kitchen counter tops. One of the leading uses of granite is for kitchen counter tops. Hundreds of colors and patterns are available as well as numerous edge
details to allow granite to fit in with any kitchen design scheme.
Will there be seams in my kitchen counter tops?
Granite is a stone and because of this, seams cannot be "melted" together. There will of course have to be seams in a typical granite project but if a quality fabricator and
installer is used, these seams will be minimized. The location and quantity of seams depends on the project design and slab sizes. It helps to have some idea of typical
slab sizes during the design stages of a kitchen. Consult with your kitchen designer or architect to layout your kitchen in order to minimize these seams later on. Seams
are normally filled with a color matched polyester adhesive to blend as close as possible. If seams are cut and filled properly, they will not stand out and be an eye sore. If
the appearance of seams is a concern, please ask your fabricator/installer to see samples of a typical finished seam.
Is the shine and surface appearance of all granite alike?
Not all granites are alike. Different minerals polish out differently. Some minerals will not shine as much as the quartz and feldspar found in granite. When shopping for
granite, take a close look at the shine and surface texture. Some granites have minute fissures in between the various granules which is normal and will not trap liquids or
food particles. If this is a concern, please direct questions to the stone salesperson or your fabricator/installer prior to fabrication and installation.
What is the truth about Granite & Radon?
In August 1995, Solid Surface, The Journal of the Solid Surface Industry (Volume 1 Number 1) published an article stating that granite emits Radon gas which can be
harmful to the public. The key advertisers in this journal were Corian and Formica.
The Marble Institute of America (MIA) called upon leading scientists in geology and geochemistry to assist in preparing a response to the allegations in this article that
radon gas emissions from granite countertops may be hazardous.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas generated by the decay of trace amounts of Uranium found in the Earth's crust throughout the world. It is an unstable gas that quickly
breaks down and dissipates in the air. Radon is measured in units called picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) A picoCurie is one trillionth (10-12) of a Curie, which is the amount of
radioactivity emitted by a gram of radium. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established 4 pCi/L as the standard for indoor air: 20 pCi/L represents the
maximum amount of exposure to radium that is now allowed by U.S. regulations. After extensive research by the MIA staff and assisting scientists, it was determined that
the levels of Radon released by granite are 7.4 x 10-7 pCi/L of air or 0.00000074 pCi/L. Soil contains 1.5 pCi/L. Public Water supplies contain 0.01 pCi/L. Outdoor air
contains 0.2 pCi/L which is 270,000 times greater than that released by a typical granite counter top.
If you would like to view the "Granite & Radon - The Truth" Bulletin, it is available on the Marble Institute of America Web Site.
How should I maintain my granite counter tops?
The first and most important step is to make sure your granite counter tops are sealed using a good grade, silicone-based, impregnating sealer. A good coat of sealer will
help prevent staining from liquids that are spilled on the surface. A good stone soap or stone polish should be used for on going maintenance. Do not use abrasive
cleansers or harsh ammonia based cleaners. If you do not have access to stone maintenance products, a mild soap such as dish washing soap and water will suffice.
We're remodeling our kitchen and installing new countertops. Synthetic countertops cost slightly less than granite, but how
do they compare in the long run?
As the saying goes, imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Countertops made from acrylic and other manufactured materials may have the "look" of granite, but the
similarities end there. For resistance to bacteria, heat, scratches, stains, and overall performance, granite is unsurpassed. Some marbles with honed or matte finishes also
make high-quality kitchens countertops.
We're building a new home and would love to put a marble floor in our foyer, but we're concerned about the heavy foot traffic
it will receive. Any suggestions?
Marble has been used as a flooring material for more than 6,000 years and continues to be a popular choice for bringing beauty to entry foyers and other areas of the
home. You need only take some simple precautions to protect your investment. Use a non-slip mat outside the entrance to your foyer and a carpet or area rug inside to
capture the abrasive grit and dirt tracked in form outdoors. Dust mop your marble floor frequently to remove dirt and dust particles that can scratch the surface. Use warm
water and a small amount of mild detergent to wash. Then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Is there any truth to the rumor that granite emits dangerous levels of radon gas?
No, this is completely unfounded. Not a single instance of radon has been reported to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. Nevertheless, the Marble Institute of
America consulted several of the nation's leading scientists in geology and geochemistry to evaluate the issue, and spoke with the major granite quarrier's and producers
in the U.S. Research has shown that actual levels of radon gas emissions from granites are insignificant and generally represent no threat to the health and well-being of
people who live or work in buildings with granite countertops, floor or wall tiles, or any other granite furnishings.
After a recent party, we discovered a dark red stain, possibly red wine, on our sandstone hearth. What can we do to remove the stain?
Because all natural stone is porous, it tends to soak up stain. But it is this same porosity that gives homeowners an edge in stain removal - you simply reverse the process
by applying a chemical poultice, which re-absorbs the spill. The choice of poultice materials will vary depending on the type of stone and the spill. When thoroughly dry, the
poultice is removed and the stain should be, too. Consult a stone restoration expert or your stone supplier for more information.
Isn't granite expensive?
It is true that up until a few short years ago, only the very wealthy could afford granite. But today, with the advancements that have been made in the quarrying, shipping
and fabrication of stone, this is no longer the case. As a general rule, there is now a wide selection of granite that prices out very competitively with Corian, Avonite, and
other plastic solid surface material.
What are the advantages of having granite?
• Granite can withstand heat up to 1800 degrees
• Granite can be used as a cutting board (although we don't recommend this as it will dull your knives).
• For those who love to bake, granite is the perfect prep surface for all your pastries.
• With your granite counter top your kitchen will look as beautiful as the day it was installed for many, many years to come.
• Unlike plastic counter top material, (remember the yellow Formica from the 1960's?!) granite is not a "dated" counter top material. Natural stone has been used
throughout the centuries and has maintained "timeless beauty".
Isn't granite porous? What about sealers?
Granite is the next hardest material to a diamond. There are some granites that are more porous than others however, all of our granite countertops are sealed during the fabrication process
and again upon installation. The rule of thumb is that when the water no longer beads up, it's time to re-seal. For some folks that's two years, for some it's 4-5. It depends upon usage.
I've heard that granite breeds bacteria, is that true?
We think that rumor was started by the "solid surface" manufacturers. Granite does not generate or "breed" any more or any less bacteria than your average countertop surface.
How do I clean my granite countertops?
Regular maintenance of your tops is easy, just use mild soap and water. When properly maintained, your granite tops will last a lifetime.
Doesn't granite scratch easily?
No. Granite is a very durable work surface and has proven itself over the centuries. The only things that can scratch granite are carbide, diamond or another piece of granite.
Are the seams very noticeable?
First of all, we try to give you the least number of seams possible. This varies depending on the size of the slabs and your particular counter top or island design. Seams are approximately
1/16" in width or less. They are done with epoxy and mixed with stone dust along with a color pigment to match your stone.
Aren't all granites dark-colored?
No. There is a wide range of colors to choose from to match any decor and compliment any cabinetry. You can find granites with green, blue, yellow, beige, taupe, mauve, pink, peach, gold,
red, black, gray and brown.
How long a process is it to get granite installed?
Once you have selected your granite, natural stone or quartstone we require a deposit to order & hold your slab material. We then make arrangements to template. In most cases it is not
necessary to remove your existing countertops until we are ready to install. If you are having new cabinetry installed, all of the new cabinets must be in place in order for us to template.
Installation is approximately 2 to 3 weeks from the time of templating. Our highly trained multi-purpose staff handle everything from fabrication & installation to repair & refurbishing.
Granite is defined as a visibly granular, igneous rock generally ranging in color from pink to light or dark gray and consisting mostly of quartz and feldspars accompanied by
one or more dark minerals. The texture is typically homogenous but may be gneissic or porphytic. Some dark granular igneous rocks, though not properly granite, are
included in this definition.
Where does granite come from and how is it quarried?
Granite, is quarried at different locations throughout the world. Hundreds of colors and patterns are available from such countries as Italy, Spain, France, China, Brazil, and
The United States. Typically, blocks are extracted from the granite quarry located high in the mountains on the outskirts of a major city. These blocks, averaging 9 feet by 5
feet by 5 feet deep in size are transported down the mountain to the fabrication plant in the city. Once at the plant, these blocks are either cut into tiles or slabs. Tiles are
usually cut to standard sizes of 12" x 12", 16" x 16", 18" x 18" and 24" x 24". Tiles range in thickness from 3/8" to 3/4". Slabs sizes usually vary depending on overall block
size. Average slab sizes are usually 9 feet by 5 feet and are typically 3/4" (2cm) or more in thickness. After the tiles or slabs are cut, they are sent through a large multi-
head polishing machine, which puts a natural shine on the face of the stone using abrasive compound bricks or diamond polishing discs. Tiles are usually beveled as a final
finishing step. Several other finishes can be applied to the slabs or tiles at this time such as a honed finish or, on some granite, a flamed finish. By far, the most popular
finish tends to be the high polish.
What colors are granites available in?
Granites are available in a wide range of colors and veining. There are beige colors, Emerald green tones, Reds, Blacks, Violets, Mauves and a host of others. The color of
the stone is dependent upon what region of the world the stone comes from. Some colors have been in use for hundreds of years; others are fairly new to the market.
Some stones are available in slabs and tiles; others are only available in either slab or tile but not both. The size of the quarry, its location, accessibility and demand for
the material will affect pricing. Labor costs in various countries also affects material costs. Technology is not the same in all countries, so beware of stones manufactured
with inferior and outdated technology. These materials are usually not difficult to spot.
What should I know about color variation & veining?
When granite is purchased within the same lot or bundle, variations in color and veining should be expected and considered. In this situation, each slab or tile when
viewed overall will look like it belongs with the remainder of the lot. In most cases, bundles of slabs are cut consecutively from the same block so as to keep color and
veining consistent.
When granite is purchased at different times or from different lots and bundles, extreme variation in color and veining can occur. As quarrying continues, materials from
different sections of the quarry or from different depths of the quarry can vary greatly. In certain cases, quarries have run out of certain shades or the veining has
changed so drastically that current lots no longer match previous lots. For these reasons, it is important to purchase sufficient quantities at the same time or verify that
additional material of the same lot is indeed available for a later purchase. Being a natural stone, variations from shipment to shipment or lot to lot cannot be controlled or
predicted.
What can granite be used for?
Due to it's high density, acid resistance, low absorption rate, and scratch resistance, granite can be used for a wide range of applications including floors, fireplaces,
furniture and kitchen counter tops. One of the leading uses of granite is for kitchen counter tops. Hundreds of colors and patterns are available as well as numerous edge
details to allow granite to fit in with any kitchen design scheme.
Will there be seams in my kitchen counter tops?
Granite is a stone and because of this, seams cannot be "melted" together. There will of course have to be seams in a typical granite project but if a quality fabricator and
installer is used, these seams will be minimized. The location and quantity of seams depends on the project design and slab sizes. It helps to have some idea of typical
slab sizes during the design stages of a kitchen. Consult with your kitchen designer or architect to layout your kitchen in order to minimize these seams later on. Seams
are normally filled with a color matched polyester adhesive to blend as close as possible. If seams are cut and filled properly, they will not stand out and be an eye sore. If
the appearance of seams is a concern, please ask your fabricator/installer to see samples of a typical finished seam.
Is the shine and surface appearance of all granite alike?
Not all granites are alike. Different minerals polish out differently. Some minerals will not shine as much as the quartz and feldspar found in granite. When shopping for
granite, take a close look at the shine and surface texture. Some granites have minute fissures in between the various granules which is normal and will not trap liquids or
food particles. If this is a concern, please direct questions to the stone salesperson or your fabricator/installer prior to fabrication and installation.
What is the truth about Granite & Radon?
In August 1995, Solid Surface, The Journal of the Solid Surface Industry (Volume 1 Number 1) published an article stating that granite emits Radon gas which can be
harmful to the public. The key advertisers in this journal were Corian and Formica.
The Marble Institute of America (MIA) called upon leading scientists in geology and geochemistry to assist in preparing a response to the allegations in this article that
radon gas emissions from granite countertops may be hazardous.
Radon is a naturally occurring gas generated by the decay of trace amounts of Uranium found in the Earth's crust throughout the world. It is an unstable gas that quickly
breaks down and dissipates in the air. Radon is measured in units called picoCuries per liter (pCi/L) A picoCurie is one trillionth (10-12) of a Curie, which is the amount of
radioactivity emitted by a gram of radium. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established 4 pCi/L as the standard for indoor air: 20 pCi/L represents the
maximum amount of exposure to radium that is now allowed by U.S. regulations. After extensive research by the MIA staff and assisting scientists, it was determined that
the levels of Radon released by granite are 7.4 x 10-7 pCi/L of air or 0.00000074 pCi/L. Soil contains 1.5 pCi/L. Public Water supplies contain 0.01 pCi/L. Outdoor air
contains 0.2 pCi/L which is 270,000 times greater than that released by a typical granite counter top.
If you would like to view the "Granite & Radon - The Truth" Bulletin, it is available on the Marble Institute of America Web Site.
How should I maintain my granite counter tops?
The first and most important step is to make sure your granite counter tops are sealed using a good grade, silicone-based, impregnating sealer. A good coat of sealer will
help prevent staining from liquids that are spilled on the surface. A good stone soap or stone polish should be used for on going maintenance. Do not use abrasive
cleansers or harsh ammonia based cleaners. If you do not have access to stone maintenance products, a mild soap such as dish washing soap and water will suffice.
We're remodeling our kitchen and installing new countertops. Synthetic countertops cost slightly less than granite, but how
do they compare in the long run?
As the saying goes, imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Countertops made from acrylic and other manufactured materials may have the "look" of granite, but the
similarities end there. For resistance to bacteria, heat, scratches, stains, and overall performance, granite is unsurpassed. Some marbles with honed or matte finishes also
make high-quality kitchens countertops.
We're building a new home and would love to put a marble floor in our foyer, but we're concerned about the heavy foot traffic
it will receive. Any suggestions?
Marble has been used as a flooring material for more than 6,000 years and continues to be a popular choice for bringing beauty to entry foyers and other areas of the
home. You need only take some simple precautions to protect your investment. Use a non-slip mat outside the entrance to your foyer and a carpet or area rug inside to
capture the abrasive grit and dirt tracked in form outdoors. Dust mop your marble floor frequently to remove dirt and dust particles that can scratch the surface. Use warm
water and a small amount of mild detergent to wash. Then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Is there any truth to the rumor that granite emits dangerous levels of radon gas?
No, this is completely unfounded. Not a single instance of radon has been reported to the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta. Nevertheless, the Marble Institute of
America consulted several of the nation's leading scientists in geology and geochemistry to evaluate the issue, and spoke with the major granite quarrier's and producers
in the U.S. Research has shown that actual levels of radon gas emissions from granites are insignificant and generally represent no threat to the health and well-being of
people who live or work in buildings with granite countertops, floor or wall tiles, or any other granite furnishings.
After a recent party, we discovered a dark red stain, possibly red wine, on our sandstone hearth. What can we do to remove the stain?
Because all natural stone is porous, it tends to soak up stain. But it is this same porosity that gives homeowners an edge in stain removal - you simply reverse the process
by applying a chemical poultice, which re-absorbs the spill. The choice of poultice materials will vary depending on the type of stone and the spill. When thoroughly dry, the
poultice is removed and the stain should be, too. Consult a stone restoration expert or your stone supplier for more information.
Isn't granite expensive?
It is true that up until a few short years ago, only the very wealthy could afford granite. But today, with the advancements that have been made in the quarrying, shipping
and fabrication of stone, this is no longer the case. As a general rule, there is now a wide selection of granite that prices out very competitively with Corian, Avonite, and
other plastic solid surface material.
What are the advantages of having granite?
• Granite can withstand heat up to 1800 degrees
• Granite can be used as a cutting board (although we don't recommend this as it will dull your knives).
• For those who love to bake, granite is the perfect prep surface for all your pastries.
• With your granite counter top your kitchen will look as beautiful as the day it was installed for many, many years to come.
• Unlike plastic counter top material, (remember the yellow Formica from the 1960's?!) granite is not a "dated" counter top material. Natural stone has been used
throughout the centuries and has maintained "timeless beauty".
Isn't granite porous? What about sealers?
Granite is the next hardest material to a diamond. There are some granites that are more porous than others however, all of our granite countertops are sealed during the fabrication process
and again upon installation. The rule of thumb is that when the water no longer beads up, it's time to re-seal. For some folks that's two years, for some it's 4-5. It depends upon usage.
I've heard that granite breeds bacteria, is that true?
We think that rumor was started by the "solid surface" manufacturers. Granite does not generate or "breed" any more or any less bacteria than your average countertop surface.
How do I clean my granite countertops?
Regular maintenance of your tops is easy, just use mild soap and water. When properly maintained, your granite tops will last a lifetime.
Doesn't granite scratch easily?
No. Granite is a very durable work surface and has proven itself over the centuries. The only things that can scratch granite are carbide, diamond or another piece of granite.
Are the seams very noticeable?
First of all, we try to give you the least number of seams possible. This varies depending on the size of the slabs and your particular counter top or island design. Seams are approximately
1/16" in width or less. They are done with epoxy and mixed with stone dust along with a color pigment to match your stone.
Aren't all granites dark-colored?
No. There is a wide range of colors to choose from to match any decor and compliment any cabinetry. You can find granites with green, blue, yellow, beige, taupe, mauve, pink, peach, gold,
red, black, gray and brown.
How long a process is it to get granite installed?
Once you have selected your granite, natural stone or quartstone we require a deposit to order & hold your slab material. We then make arrangements to template. In most cases it is not
necessary to remove your existing countertops until we are ready to install. If you are having new cabinetry installed, all of the new cabinets must be in place in order for us to template.
Installation is approximately 2 to 3 weeks from the time of templating. Our highly trained multi-purpose staff handle everything from fabrication & installation to repair & refurbishing.
| 711 Tumwater Blvd. SW Tumwater, WA 98501 360.753.3522 / fax 360.357.4139 info@granitegallery.net |
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