Finding granite kitchen for your self? Read this article, sure you will understand more…
Natural stones
Granite, marble, soapstone, slate, limestone, lava glazed … The world of natural stone is varied. All issues of land, they are cut with diamond saw and then polished. No section is identical, which gives a unique look at each counter, but makes difficult the arrangement of two sections. Also, before it is delivered to you, you should insist on see that was selected for your kitchen to make sure it suits your tastes. The stones are also available with different finishes: polished, processed sandblasted (matte but soft to the touch), or textured.
Each type of stone has its own characteristics when it comes to making counters:
Granite is the stone most used in the manufacture of counters. This hard rock from volcanic activity located in the beautiful crystals of quartz, mica and feldspar, which are naturally incorporated. The granite is very resistant to breakage and scratching. It can therefore be cut food, roll the dough and make cakes directly on its surface. Because it is porous, granite must be treated every six months with a sealant to prevent stains.
Marble is ideal for rolling dough and pastry cook because it is sweet and cold to the touch. However, because it is more porous than granite, it requires more maintenance to keep its beauty, especially by the frequent application of sealant to prevent stains.
Slate is becoming increasingly gallon in kitchens today. Formerly used in the manufacture of durable floors, it is now considered a unique material in the manufacture of counters. Indeed, it is durable, heat resistant and absorbs little stains. You can still add additional protection through the application of a sealant.
The limestone gives a natural look that is unique. However, it is not recommended for people who cook a lot, because it stains easily. However, it is possible to obtain the Jerusalem stone, like marble, but more resistant than other stone quarry.
With soapstone, or steatite, we focus on lasting beauty. Little porous, it does not stain. Treatment with mineral oil applied once or twice a year will enable it to retain its rich dark color. The soapstone little crumble more easily than granite. The damage can be mitigated by sanding.
In terms of new materials in the manufacture of counters, there are enameled lava, as one of the most luxurious. The stone from the volcanic lava is painted with colorful enamel and then heated in an oven, giving a glossy surface, cracked and very hard. This material is available under a virtually infinite palette of colors that can be arranged to any decor.
Granite, marble stones are among the most widely used in the construction of countertops. These two stones are advantages and disadvantages similar, ie:
Advantages:
* Look very elegant
* Resistant to stains by applying sealants and heat
Disadvantages:
* Uniform Color bit of a block of stone to another
* Prices are high
Cautions:
* To delay its deterioration, it is recommended to wash the granite with a mild soap instead of traditional cleaning products
* Most stones require the application of a sealer to protect them from stains. To preserve the beauty of his counter, he must be disciplined.
Surfaces in quartz and other stones machined
The stones are manufactured mainly composed of real minerals, usually quartz. These are particles of stone aggregate with resin and colored with pigments. They are free of cracks or veins that are found in natural stone, making them more resistant. Available in a dozen colors, they are resistant to scratches and stains. Some counters manufactured stone can be made from marble or granite. However, for most of these counters, the application of a sealer, like the original rock may be necessary.
Advantages:
* Available in a greater variety of colors than natural stone
* The color and patterns are consistent from one section to another
* Resistant to stains, heat and scratches
* Easy to maintain
* Hygienic
Disadvantages:
* Give a look less natural than the original stone
* Prices are relatively high
