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What is granite? Back To Top
- The term "granite" is a group of related stones, all of which originate deep in the earth's molten mantle. Granite rocks are igneous
rocks also known as "fire rocks" which were formed by slowly cooling pockets of magma that were trapped beneath the earth's surface.
Granite is the hardest of all building stones with a very compact grain, making it almost impervious to stain. When polished, it's
high-gloss finish will endure even the most extreme environments. This is why it is the ideal surface for counter tops and floors.
Does granite stain? Generally, it does not, although natural stone is porous to some extent, but Granite has very little porosity.
Most colors will never show any moisture. A few colors may show some moisture if exposed for a period of time. For example, a puddle
of water left on the counter for 30 minutes for some colors, may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. This spot will then
dry up and no evidence will show. Only a few colors demonstrate this trait. Our granite has a sealer applied after fabrication,
however some customers prefer to apply a stone sealer (available for purchase in the shop) after the granite is installed.
Can I use a knife on my granite counter tops? Back To Top
- Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is harder than your knife blades and will dull them very quickly, if you use
the countertop as a cutting surface. Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.
How easily is granite damaged? Back To Top
- Like any solid surface, heavy blows can harm granite. Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected to sharp hard
objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as oil, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration. Heat from pots
and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite under normal circumstances.
My granite sample is pitted on the surface - will mine look like this? Back To Top
- Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don't see them
on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which
may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which
formed the granite millions of years ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the
function or durability of the material.
Will my granite look like the sample? Back To Top
- The samples you see on our web site are photographs. The color tones may not be absolutely correct due to variations in computer systems,
monitors and compression algorithms. Also, granite is a natural material with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity,
pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty. Color variants are present in most natural stone products.
Can I set a hot pot on my granite counter top? Back To Top
- Granite is formed by extreme heat and pressure combined beneath the earths crust. It can not be affected by heat from a
cook top or frying pan. A lit flame placed under the granite will have no melting effect and will not leave any burned or scarred marks.
Can I chip granite? Back To Top
- In cases of heavy abuse and improper installation. A chip can be filled with a granite dust and epoxy mixture
making the damage nearly invisible.
How often do I need to re-apply stone sealer? Back To Top
- Many so-called "experts" advise re-applying stone sealers on an annual (or more frequent) basis. Earthworks doesn't advise any
preset schedule for re-sealing. Remember, over-application of sealer can build up over time and cause a haze on the surface of
your countertops. The frequency for re-sealing really depends on the type of stone installed and the amount of use that the
countertops see. An easy rule of thumb is to closely monitor the area around the sink. If you begin to notice water that does not
bead up or begins to soak into the stone within 10-15 minutes, then it's probably time to re-apply the sealer. Applying a sealer
is quick, easy and can save you time and money in the future.
Are seems in granite normal? Back To Top
- Granite is a natural material and is mined from the quarry in blocks usually no more than 10 feet long, this means you will
end up with seams. Also, because granite is sold in rectangular pieces, you may want to use seams to reduce your costs, such
as in an 'L' shaped corner. The visibility of seams will depend on the granularity, color and pattern. A small, uniform grain
will not be as apparent as a larger varied grain.
Can you overhang granite? Back To Top
- You can overhang granite up to 14" with sufficient support on the fixed end and with a large enough piece. Never cantilever
unsupported granite where it might receive excessive stress like someone sitting on a counter or stepping on a
counter to change a light bulb. You must have support underneath for these situations.
Does granite stain or burn? Back To Top
- No. You can't burn it with ordinary use. Granite does not stain. The only exception is that a few colors may absorb some
moisture with prolonged contact. Usually, no evidence remains when the liquid is removed and the granite dries, but
could be a problem with dark pigmented liquids. Although granite has a sealer applied at the fabricator, a stone sealer
is recommended for all granite after installation.
Can granite crack? Back To Top
- No, with the ordinary use. Granite is most susceptible to cracks during shipping and installation. Normal every day
use will not over stress this durable material.
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