Question 1

What is granite?

Accepted Answer

Granite is a natural igneous rock composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica, rated 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is the most durable architectural building stone available for countertops. The increasing popularity of this stone is a testament to its beauty, versatility and consistency. Used in a wide array of commercial and residential applications, granite is ideal for tile floors, walls and countertops, as well as exterior applications such as pavers and wall cladding. Granite is quarried worldwide, with the most exotic colors coming from Brazil, India, Finland, North America, China and Southern Africa.

Question 2

Why choose granite counter tops over synthetic materials?

Accepted Answer

Granite is naturally heat-resistant up to 1,200°F, scratch-resistant, and available in hundreds of unique colors not possible with synthetic materials. It has become today's countertop of choice for architects, cabinetmakers, kitchen designers and contractors. A granite counter top is virtually impervious to abrasions, stains and extreme heat. Additionally, the inherent qualities of granite — its color, patterns and shades — complement any decor.

Question 3

Does granite need to be sealed to avoid staining?

Accepted Answer

Yes, granite countertops should be sealed every 6-12 months to maintain stain resistance. It is our policy to seal every stone surface we install and we recommend the application of a sealer regularly to assure protection against any oils or water that may have sat on the surface of the stone for any length of time.

Question 4

My granite kitchen counter top doesn't look exactly like my sample. Why?

Accepted Answer

No two granite slabs are exactly alike because granite is a natural stone with unique mineral compositions. Granite is an organic substance and just as no two people are exactly alike, no two samples of granite will be either. The composition of minerals and the deposit it was quarried from all play a part in the appearance of granite. At United Granite, after selecting a sample, our customers then select the exact block of stone from which we fabricate their surface.

Question 5

Is granite really scratch resistant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, granite is highly scratch-resistant and rates 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the hardest natural materials for countertops. Even if you cut directly down upon it in the course of normal, daily use, you will not mar the finish of your granite countertop.

Question 6

Does where my granite originates from affect the price?

Accepted Answer

Granite origin has minimal impact on price; supply and demand at the quarry level is the primary price factor. You'll find that red and blue tones are a bit higher priced than other colors due to their lack of abundance.

Question 7

I've heard of 'high movement' stone. What is it?

Accepted Answer

'Movement' in granite refers to the swirling veins and color variations caused by mineral composition and geological forces during formation. Sometimes called 'grain in the stone,' these veins swirl and change irregularly in granite due to the massive forces at work on it beneath the surface of the earth during the eons it took to form. 'Movement' is also affected by trace amounts of other minerals such as hornblende, magnetite, hematite, pyrite, zircon, garnet and corundum. Many people find this flow of blending colors to be the most attractive and compelling quality about granite.

Question 8

Is it true granite won't chip, crack or ding?

Accepted Answer

Granite will not chip, crack, or ding under normal household use due to its exceptional hardness. Unless you're planning on wailing away on your new granite counter top with a sledge hammer and chisel, we assure you it will remain intact. Besides, the fabrication process is the most stressful on the stone, and if it doesn't break at that point, it never will under normal circumstances in your home.

Question 9

Is it hard to care for a granite countertop?

Accepted Answer

No, granite countertops are easy to maintain with simple daily cleaning using a non-abrasive cleaner. Just use a common commercial product, such as a glass cleaner, to wipe it down to keep its finish shining. In fact, you'll wish everything were this easy.

Question 10

Are all granite kitchen counters a high gloss finish?

Accepted Answer

No, granite countertops are available in multiple finishes including polished (high gloss), honed (matte), and leathered (textured). The highly polished finish is just the most popular. The 'honing' process gives the stone a more matte finish yet retains its smooth feel.

Question 11

What's the difference between a drop-in sink and an undermount sink?

Accepted Answer

A drop-in sink sits on top of the countertop cutout, while an undermount sink is mounted beneath the cutout for a seamless look. There is generally an extra polishing charge required in preparing a granite countertop for an undermount sink.

Question 12

Will I know where my granite is from?

Accepted Answer

Granite is quarried from locations worldwide including Brazil, India, Italy, Norway, Africa, and North America. Probably you won't know the exact origin since granite is quarried all over the world, including Africa, Brazil, Egypt, India, Italy, Norway and Spain, to name a few. There are also some very lovely veins of granite mined in the United States and Canada as well.

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