Do you want to know the best methods of finishing granite countertops? If your answer is yes then you are in the perfect place. Here, you will get complete information about finishing granite countertops.
One of the most beautiful and versatile natural stones is granite. It is a great building material for the home and is also very popular. In some cases, granite countertops can be used for outdoor living areas as well as kitchens and bathrooms.
You can choose from many different types of finishes when it comes to granite, not just in terms of colors and styles. Among granite countertops, honed, polished, and leather finishes are the most popular. This guide will discuss what the three different finishes are and how each will affect the look and functionality of your new countertop.
Here Are The Best Methods Of Finishing Granite Countertops
Polished
Polished granite countertops are the most common finish. The glossy finish makes the granite countertop surface shiny and almost mirror-like. The characteristics of the stone are highlighted with a shiny finish. This will result in a more vibrant appearance of colors and textures.
A glossy finish is the easiest surface to clean; it’s easy to keep countertops with a gloss finish looking like new. The gloss finish also seals the pores of the stone to keep moisture and water out.
Caring for polished granite includes both resealing and polishing the stone as well as keeping it clean.
Honed
The honed finish also called matte or polished, creates a very smooth surface without shine or reflections. To create this finish, the normal polishing process is completed before the stone is polished to create a flat finish, which is sometimes called a satin finish.
Smooth stones create a slippery surface, so polished finishes are more popular on floors to prevent people from slipping. In addition to countertops, this finish can be used on granite, though it makes the granite more susceptible to staining.
Since polished granite is not slippery or stain-resistant compared to polished granite, it may need to be resealed more often. However, it will not be necessary to add glaze to the stone.
Leathered
The leather finish also called a brushed finish, is a relatively new style of finishing. It is created by taking a smooth surface and running diamond-tipped brushes across it to add a subtle rippled texture.
Leather finishes tend to look more sophisticated. Leather countertops often retain the color of the natural stone, as opposed to a polished finish.
Compared to polished granite, leather-covered granite will be more resistant to stains. A surface finish like this hides water spots, fingerprints, and smudges.
Flame
Granite is the only natural stone that can have a flamed finish due to the high heat applied to the stone’s surface. This makes the flamed finish rather rare; in fact, it’s more popular for outdoor kitchens, but it’s not often used on indoor countertops.
To create a flamed finish, the granite is heated to extreme temperatures which causes the stone grains to explode and change color. The final product has a rougher surface with a natural, faded look. Countertops with flamed finishes often have a matte color.
Caressed
The caressed finish is created by taking the leather finish and adding a bit of shine to it. To do this, the raised areas of the stone are polished, which creates a shine on those surfaces. This look is considered stylish and rugged. In addition, this process seals the pores of the stone to protect it from moisture.
Bush Hammered
While this is not a common finish for granite countertops, it is the one to consider. The finish is created using a tool that looks like a meat tenderizing hammer with triangular tips.
This tool is tapped against the surface to provide a naturally worn look with a slightly textured surface. Additionally, this technique tends to lighten the stone’s color.
There are additional finish options, but most of them are used for decorative purposes only because they are too porous and difficult to clean for use on countertops.
Faqs | Best Methods Of Finishing Granite Countertops
Can granite be polished after installation?
Dry or wet materials can be used to polish granite. Professionals are divided on the question of which is best. Both techniques can be effective.
How do you finish a granite top?
Polishing the edges of your granite countertop is a breeze if you follow these simple steps.
- Lay the granite on a flat work surface.
- Moisten the edge with water.
- To polish the grinder, attach the polishing pads.
- Start polishing with 50 grit.
- The grinder should be moved from left to right.
- Clean with water as you go.
Can you clad granite countertops?
The answer is yes, you can permanently seal your granite and this will give you a completely maintenance-free countertop. Permanent sealants work with a couple of coats, unlike other types of sealants, you don’t need to reapply the product ever again.
How do I get a glossy finish on granite?
Make a mixture of three parts of baking soda with one part of warm water and blend until smooth. Apply a thin layer of paste to the granite surface and gently buff it with a clean cloth. Remove any residue with a damp cloth and dry the granite for a smooth, shiny surface.
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