Granite: An Important Element Within the Natural Stone Family

Natural stone contributes greatly to bathroom and kitchen remodels alike. This is because natural stone is both beautiful and versatile. In addition, many cuts of natural stone prove to be quite durable. As such, these materials wear well over time. Given the mounting popularity of granite, many homeowners wonder about how this material measures up. One way of assessing this is by examining the similarities and differences between granite and other natural stones. Here, we have provided a well-rounded survey of how granite compares to its natural stone counterparts. It is our hope that you will be impressed with the results.

Marble

Marble is a beautiful natural stone that has achieved a high level of popularity as both a flooring and countertop material. In fact, the excellent reputation of marble in many ways pre-dates that of granite. But, this is not to say that marble is the superior material. In fact, this would not be accurate.

Marble carries with it a characteristically glossy finish. It is this glossy finish that many people associate with a sense of luxury, status and even wealth. With that said, marble functions extremely well as a contemporary flooring material. Its glossy finish reflects light in such a way that proves intriguing to the eye. But, when considering marble as a countertop material, you will want to be aware of the fact that it is sensitive to staining. If you are someone who embraces the organic changes that materials undergo over time, then this might not be problematic. But, if the wear and tear of daily life ends up wearing on you, you may want to use marble on the floor instead of on the countertop.

Granite

The natural stone with which marble is most often compared to is granite. This is because these two natural stones closely resemble one another. Nonetheless, it is important that we acknowledge the important differences between these two natural stones.

One major advantage of granite is that this natural stone is much less sensitive to the effects of extraneous matter. So, if you are considering bringing granite into your kitchen, as a beautiful countertop material, rest assured. You can do so knowing that spilling the occasional glass of wine or plate of curry, will not prove disastrous to your modern countertop. Beyond granite’s resistance to staining, this material is also resistant to force. This means that you might drop an object on your granite countertop from time to time, without seeing any visible effects. Last but not least, granite is a wonderful material for homeowners who want to make a unique statement in either their kitchen or bathroom. The uniqueness of this material derives from the range of colors, patterns and textures in which it is available. Granite is an ideal material to incorporate into your home if you are hoping to implement a finish that is beautiful, unique, and long-lasting in nature.

Soapstone

Although soapstone has been in existence for quite some time, it has just recently entered the conversation as a viable finish within the home. You may very well be wondering, “Why is that?” Interior designers provide a number of different explanations for this reality. One of the most intriguing explanations suggests that we are not used to seeing soapstone as an interior finish, instead being accustomed to seeing this material in either industrial or commercial settings.

However, you may well want to consider integrating soapstone within your home; in fact, this natural stone works especially well in the kitchen. Part of the reason for this is because soapstone is highly resistant to heat. By introducing a soapstone countertop in your kitchen, you will achieve a contemporary aesthetic that stands up well in an intensive cooking environment. Interior designers suggest that this material complements homeowners who enjoy having many dishes on the go at once. This is because homeowners can rest easy knowing that they can place their scalding pots on their countertop without fear of the repercussions. Another neat feature that often accompanies soapstone countertops are integrated sinks. A soapstone countertop with integrated sink creates a streamlined and cohesive aesthetic. In addition, the dark tone of soapstone is extremely bold. As such, this material works especially well in spaces that embrace bold hues and pops of color.

Natural stone is an umbrella term that embodies a wide range of different materials. Moreover, all of these materials can be put to good use when remodelling either your kitchen or your bathroom. Granite is a natural stone that works in a variety of different contexts. This is because granite is highly versatile. Granite’s versatility derives from the innumerable colors, patterns and textures in which it is available. In addition, granite is highly durable. This means that you might bring granite into your kitchen or bathroom as a feature that will last, in good form, for years to come.