Granite marble, also known as natural stone, has been used in construction for centuries. It is a metamorphic rock formed from limestone or dolomite through intense heat and pressure.
Granite marble is valued for its durability, elegance, and natural beauty, and it is widely used in architecture, sculptures, and home décor. Graana.com brings you a detailed account of Granite marble.
Properties of Granite Marble
Here are some points to elaborate more on the properties of granite marble
Hardness
It is a hard and dense material that is difficult to scratch or chip. It has a rating of 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the most durable natural stones available.
Porosity
Granite marble is relatively non-porous, making it less likely to absorb liquids or stains. However, it must still be sealed regularly to prevent any damage or discolouration.
Heat Resistance
Granite marble is highly resistant to heat and can withstand high temperatures without being damaged or discoloured. This makes it an ideal choice for kitchen countertops or fireplace surrounds.
Natural Patterns
One of the most attractive features of granite marble is its natural veining pattern, which varies from stone to stone. The designs can range from subtle to bold, adding a unique and elegant touch to any space.
Colour Variation
It comes in a wide range of colours, from light to dark, and may include shades of white, black, grey, pink, green, or blue. The colour variation makes it easy to match with any interior design style.
Durability
Granite marble is highly durable and can withstand heavy use and foot traffic without showing any signs of wear or damage.
Low maintenance
Granite marble requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean. Regular cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner is recommended to keep it looking new.
Non-allergenic
Granite marble is non-allergenic and does not harbour bacteria or allergens, making it a hygienic choice for homes and hospitals.
Pros of Granite Marble
One of the major advantages of granite marble is its durability and strength. It is less likely to crack or chip than other materials, making it a popular choice for kitchen countertops and high-traffic areas.
However, there are some disadvantages as well. It is a heavy material, making installation difficult and requiring extra support. It is also prone to etching and staining if not sealed properly, and it can be expensive compared to other materials.
Here are some of the pros of granite marble:
Durability
It is highly durable and can withstand heavy use and foot traffic without showing any signs of wear or damage.
Aesthetics
It has a unique and natural veining pattern that adds an elegant touch to any space. It comes in a wide range of colours, making it easy to match with any interior design style.
Heat Resistance
Granite marble is highly resistant to heat and can withstand high temperatures without being damaged or discoloured. This makes it an ideal choice for kitchen countertops or fireplace surrounds.
Low Maintenance
Granite marble requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean. Regular cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner is recommended to keep it looking new.
Non-allergenic
It is non-allergenic and does not harbour bacteria or allergens, making it a hygienic choice for homes and hospitals.
Cons of Granite Marble
Following are some of the cons of granite marble:
Price
It can be expensive compared to other materials, making it a luxury option for some.
Heavy Weight
Granite marble is a heavy material that can make installation difficult and require extra support.
Porosity
Granite marble is a relatively non-porous material, but it must be sealed regularly to prevent any damage or discolouration. It can be prone to etching and staining if it is not sealed correctly.
Limited Availability
It is a natural stone that can vary in availability depending on the quarry’s location. Some types of granite marble may be difficult to find, which can increase the price and make it less accessible.
Uses of Granite Marble
Granite marble is used for the following purposes:
Kitchen Countertops
Due to its durability and heat resistance, granite marble is a popular choice for kitchen countertops. It can withstand high temperatures and is easy to clean. It is available in various colours, making it easy to match with any kitchen design.
Bathroom Vanity Tops
Granite marble is also popular for bathroom vanity tops due to its durability and low maintenance. It is resistant to water damage and does not require much upkeep. It adds a touch of luxury to any bathroom design.
Flooring
Granite marble flooring is a popular choice for high-traffic areas due to its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It is available in various colours and patterns, making it easy to match with any interior design style.
Fireplace Surrounds
Granite marble is ideal for fireplace surrounds due to its heat resistance and natural beauty. It can withstand high temperatures without being damaged or discoloured, and adds a touch of elegance to any living space.
Outdoor Paving
Granite marble can also be used for outdoor paving due to its durability and resistance to weathering. It is available in various colours and patterns, making it easy to match any landscaping design.
Sculptures and Monuments
Granite marble has been used for centuries to create sculptures and monuments due to its durability and natural beauty. It can be carved into intricate designs and withstands the test of time, making it an ideal material for creating lasting works of art.
Wall Cladding
Granite marble can also be used for wall cladding due to its natural beauty and durability. It adds a touch of luxury to any interior or exterior space and is available in various colours and patterns.
Overall, granite marble has many uses due to its durability, natural beauty, and low maintenance. It is a versatile material that can be used for both functional and decorative purposes, making it a popular choice for homeowners and designers alike.
Types of Granite Stone
Following are some of the types of granite stone:
- Black Granite
- Brown Granite
- Green Granite
- White Granite
- Red Granite
- Gold Granite
- Grey Granite
Black Granite
Black granite is a popular choice for countertops and flooring due to its sophisticated and elegant appearance. It is available in a range of finishes, including polished, honed, and leathered. It is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
Brown Granite
Brown granite has a warm and earthy tone that adds a cosy feel to any space. It comes in a variety of shades and patterns, from light beige to dark chocolate brown.
Green Granite
Green granite is a unique and eye-catching material that adds colour to any interior or exterior design. It is known for its durability and resistance to weathering, making it a popular choice for outdoor paving and landscaping. It is available in various shades, from light mint green to dark forest green.
White Granite
White granite has a clean and timeless appearance, adding a classic touch to any interior design. It is known for its durability and low-maintenance, making it an ideal material for countertops, backsplashes, and flooring. It comes in shades, from pure white to creamy off-white.
Red Granite
Red granite is a bold and striking material that adds a dramatic touch to any space. It is available in a range of shades, from bright red to dark burgundy.
Gold Granite
Gold granite has a luxurious and rich appearance that adds a touch of elegance to any interior design. It comes in a range of shades, from light beige with gold flecks to dark brown with gold veins.
Grey Granite
Grey granite has a modern and sleek appearance that adds a contemporary touch to any space. It is available in various shades, from light silver to dark charcoal grey.
Overall, a wide range of colours are available in granite, each with unique appearance and characteristics. Choosing the right granite colour can add a touch of luxury, sophistication, or warmth to any space.
For more information on marble or terrazo, visit Graana.com.
