GRANITE WORKTOPS
Granite is an igneous rock made of minerals such as quartz, mica and feldspar, as well as other materials. It is formed through the process of slow crystallisation of magma below the earths surface, which traps these minerals in its structure.
The formation of this material under high heat temperatures generates its hardness and durability. The variety and abundance in the minerals allow distinctive patterns, textures and crystals to form. The colour choice is vast from off whites, reds, blues, pinks and greens. Some are simple with subtle veining or patterns, whilst others offer striking arrangements that look like artistic paintings.
Within the spectrum of Granites, there is a range from hard to soft which will affect the care and maintenance of each stone. One of the most popular choices for worktops, a Granite surface is beautiful and varied as well as durable and functional. Your fabricator will have access to a wide range of the most sought-after Granites from, Brazil, Italy, Africa, India, and China to name just a few sources, bringing you the highest quality materials available in the market.
VARIATION..
The beauty of Granites as a natural stone is the colours and variation you get.
When stone importers source a block of Granite from a quarry, that block is cut into slabs. Though each slab will usually be similar in colour, pattern, and texture, it will not be identical; it may vary slightly through the block.
SLAB EFFICIENCY..
Your fabricator will aim to cut the slabs to maximise the pattern flow and make sure all-important sections of the slab are used efficiently for your project. Ensure you have discussed your personal preferences and requirements with your fabricator before cutting starts.
NATURAL PITS & HOLES..
Being a natural material, Granite can have pits or little holes in the surface where the crystals are very small and do not adhere to the surface. This would be evident during the selection process and would not affect the performance of the surface. In many cases these little pits will be filled by a film of resin, it depends on the stone type. Sometimes these holes are so small they do not take the resin. WFF members aim to source blocks which have less of these features, but from time to time they can occur and they should not be considered an imperfection.
HARD & SOFT..
Granites are divided into hard and soft Granites. Most Granites rarely scratch but we would always recommend using a chopping board. Chopping directly onto your granite will result in knives becoming blunt. Soft Granite may scratch.
THERMAL SHOCK..
Though Granites have been formed through high heat temperatures and can withstand a moderate amount of heat, it is still advisable to use trivets as your surface can receive a thermal shock and crack. Only Lundhs Granites have been officially tested to be deemed safe to accept a hot pan directly onto the surface.
caUTION..
Granite is undoubtedly a strong stone, but as a worktop, it is only supported at the edges by the kitchen carcass, joins and cut-outs can be weaker points and the surface is not designed to support the weight of a person. Do not stand or sit on your surface or place very heavy objects on weaker points.
Dropping a heavy or sharp object onto a Granite surface may cause it to chip or crack.
DEEP CLEAN..
Overtime and with use, a build-up of oils and greases will gradually darken the appearance of your Granite surface. This can be revitalised with a deep clean using an appropriate product such as Lithofin Wexa or DryTreat Rejuvinata.
SEALANTS..
Natural stone is porous and therefore would absorb substances if untreated. Hard Granite is only very slightly porous, whereas soft Granites will need more sealant. Sealants can either impregnate the surface of the stone filling the capillaries and reducing their absorbency, or create a covering film on the surface. A good sealant will stop the ingress of water, oils and other liquids on all-natural stone and this protective layer will only enhance the durability of your surface. Discuss with your fabricator the options of sealant, which is the most suitable to the type of Granite you have chosen and their effect on the appearance of the surface.
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE..
It is always advisable to remove a spill as soon as you possibly can by blotting away with a kitchen towel and then wiping the surface. The longer the spill sits on the surface, the increased risk of it penetrating the surface. This is particularly important for acid-based products such as vinegars, citrus, fizzy drinks and wine etc. The same applies to oil based substances such as butter, cooking oils and strongly coloured foods and liquids like beetroot, red/dark fruits, turmeric, saffron and red wine.
For daily care of your surface wipe with a moist, soft cloth with either a dilute, mild soapy solution - such as liquid dish soap or or a daily Granite and Marble cleaner such as Method, DryTreat Rejuvinata Countertop Cleaner, or Lithofin Easy-Clean. Rinse cloth, wring out & then wipe over the surface again to clear any traces of soap. Buff with a clean, dry microfibre cloth. Never use highly abrasive cloth or scouring pads.
Do not use bleach or harsh cleaners . The darker and/or plainer Granite’s can be susceptible to a visual oil build-up from liquid dish soap, so a more specialist cleaner as listed above would be recommended . Certain granites can be pre-treated and we always recommend referring to specific care and maintenance guidelines, prior to using any chemicals on these surfaces.
WFF members source and fabricate top quality materials from the best suppliers around the world, such as Cullifords, Lundhs & Brachot. These brands continue to inspire, innovate and use state-of-the-art technology with vast experience and professional know-how. For help and guidance with your latest Projects, please tap the button below to find a WFF member near you.