Granite is one of the most widely used stones when it comes to building, especially interior building. Perhaps this is one of the reasons that it is used for kitchen and bathroom counter tops, and even floor tiles all around the world. Chances are that you know of someone who has or you actually own something that is made out of this material. However, if you don’t know much about this stone and how it can be used throughout your house and even in construction materials, here are some of the different types and uses for granite.

Counter Tops: As mentioned, many people all over the world are now using granite as a layer for their counter tops, such as in their bathrooms, kitchens, and even mantelpieces. The type of granite that is usually used for this type of building is called Biotite-granite and some of the Biotite-granite types include quartz and even plagioclase.

Of course, when it goes into the construction of counter tops in homes and buildings the granite is usually polished, which is the method of cleaning and polishing it that gives it the shiny and modern look for homes and buildings. In addition, biotite granite can come in a variety of colors, which is also yet another reason why individuals choose to use this for decoration in their homes. This type of granite can come in such colors as pink, black, grey, and even white.

Monuments: Aside from granite counter tops, granite has many more uses and can even be used when producing statues and monuments. When it comes to monuments of this type, such as the ones that are erected in memory of an infamous figure or event, they have been typically made of marble in the past. However, in more recent times granite stone has been used in conjunction with marble or even by itself as a stand-alone monument. Statues, cemetery memorials and monuments, and even headstones can all be made out of granite, and even produced or polished to the buyer’s satisfaction.

Benefits of Building with Granite: There are plenty of reasons that one may want to use granite as a material when building their new home or even remodeling their current one. First, granite is considered to be a versatile stone, which means that it can be produced and finished in many different polishes, looks, and feels. Second, granite is very scratch-resistant, which is perhaps one of the other reasons that people choose this type of building material for their counter tops.

Counter tops are not the only piece of furniture that is often chosen to be built with granite, though. Foyer centerpieces, such as those used for the tiles of the floor, are sometimes built with granite because it can greatly withstand the foot-traffic without much damage to the surface. Garage floors are even sometimes laced with granite for the hardness factor. All in all, granite is definitely one of the more high-quality building materials.

When it comes right down to it, granite shall continue to be one of the most popular construction and building materials for new homes and even decorative pieces for all types of reasons. The fact that granite is very resistant to scratches and a durable product does make it one of the more expensive ways to build, but also makes it one of the most beautiful and aesthetically pleasing as well.



By: Daniel Millions

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There is nothing that will make a kitchen sparkle like granite countertops. The polished stone has a luster that cannot be found in any other material that is being used in kitchens today. Granite countertops can be very expensive but they also will be an excellent selling point if you ever decide to put your home on the market.

While the shine is the big draw with granite, you cannot overlook the durability as a major selling point. The stone is heat and stain resistant and will continue to look good for years and years with a minimal amount of maintenance. The secret to keeping granite countertops looking like new is making sure the surface is sealed to prevent moisture from seeping in. There are a number of products on the market that can be applied very easily to protect your investment.

Hot pots are no threat to granite. You can take a dish right out of the oven and place it on top of the countertop with no fear of it doing any damage. Unlike laminate countertops or countertops made of composite materials, granite will not burn or become discolored because of heat. Granite is so hard it is also less likely to chip when something is dropped on it.

There are two different types of granite stone that are used to produce countertops; consistent granite and variegated granite. Consistent granite is the less expensive of the two options and the most practical to use in kitchens where two pieces of stone have to be butted up against each other. Since the pattern in the stone is consistent throughout, the seams are easier to match. Variegated granite has a more random pattern running throughout the stone and is said to resemble a piece of art. These pieces of granite are very unique and the vein which rambles through it resembles a running river.

The colors available in granite are virtually unlimited and so are the patterns. When you shop for granite countertops it pays to look around for a slab that will match your decor. Among the most popular of all patterns is the Emerald Pearl which is a hunter green color with speckles of white and black liberally sprinkled throughout. Earth tones are very popular in granite countertops as well because the neutral colors will go with any design scheme. Madura Gold and Madura Light are extremely popular as well as Mocha Juparana.

If you are looking for a very classy opal appearance, New Caledonia and Tiger Black will make a dramatic difference in your kitchen. The only problem with going with these finishes is that they can make small kitchens seem even smaller. However, with the proper under cabinet lighting, the way that the stone reflects the light creates a dazzling effect. There is White Tiger or Kinawa granite which has a white backdrop with black specks or marbling throughout that will give a similar effect but brighten up the room. Azul Imperial is a nice blend of the white and black stone with some gray mixed in.

By: Shawn Michael Hickman

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Shawn Hickman is the Search Marketing Manager for Sears Home Improvements.
You can find more information on kitchen countertops, kitchen cabinet refacing, and kitchen remodeling at searshomeservices.com/kitchen/improve.



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Stone cabinet hardware is quickly becoming a popular solution for cabinet and drawer handles and pulls. Traditionally, cabinet hardware has been made of metal, plastic, or glass, but stone creates a very unique and long-lasting look. Stone lasts as long as and is as durable as metal, plus it offers the unique characteristics and colors that glass and plastic do. Stone cabinet hardware matches perfectly with granite countertops or just about any modern décor you are looking to complete. With all of the choices involved in selecting stone cabinet hardware, sometimes it can be difficult deciding which pieces will look the best in your kitchen. Here are some stylistic reminders to think about as you make your selections.

Style

One of the main reasons people choose stone cabinet hardware is because of the style it invokes. While stone itself is very natural, it is also possible to be more or less natural with the style of the stone cabinet hardware. For example, knobs that are a simple polished stone are more natural than highly stylized marble or granite handles. On the other hand, people who really want a polished and formal look will appreciate chiseled marble or granite rather than a natural stone knob. It all boils down to personal preference and the style you are trying to show off.

The style of your stone cabinet hardware should match your personality as well as the rest of the room it is in. Rustic cabinets will pair better with a natural stone knob, while highly contemporary cabinets with smooth finishes and sleek lines will pair better with granite or stone handles, especially if the countertops are also granite.

Size

The size of the stone cabinet hardware is also very important. While most stone pieces are rather small, when you start looking at stone knobs, you will see that some of the stones may be rather large. Also they are all different shapes, so the natural look continues. Just be careful that you do not get too carried away with that natural look. This can cause you to choose stone knobs that are just too large for the cabinets that they will go on. Remember to think about the size of the cabinets and the drawers and try to keep the size of the knob within the size of the trim around the outside of the door’s face.

Quality and Price

Stone cabinet hardware is typically more expensive than other types of hardware because the stone is rarer. The price goes up as the rarity of the type of stone increases. Granite stone cabinet hardware will cost more than polished river stones, and cut pieces of marble will cost quite a bit more than many other types of stone. Just remember to look at the stone very carefully before purchasing. True stone cabinet hardware will be rather heavy, so beware of elegant-looking fakes that are not real stone. They are typically made of plastic or acrylic, which is a lot lighter than true stone.

Another thing to check out in terms of quality is how the stone attaches to the rest of the hardware. For example, a stone piece that is all one piece and made completely out of stone may be of a higher quality than a piece of stone that is attached to a piece of metal. However, if you are looking at stone attached to metal, then make sure to feel the metal part of the hardware. If it is heavy also, then it is definitely a very high quality piece. Also look at how the metal attaches to the stone. If it looks or feels like it will come loose soon, then just avoid it.

By: Jennifer Akre

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Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops including that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it is indoor benches for your bathroom or teak tables for your home there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Click today and indulge your senses.



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