When it comes to countertop selection for kitchens, the most popular choice is still, and will probably always be, granite. Granite stands up to heat, can be treated with new sealers that make it almost maintenance-free, and will essentially last a lifetime.
Let’s face it, when you think of countertops, the first thought is probably granite. However, most of our clients are looking for something a little more unique.
These days, there are literally thousands of stones available. When a client is selecting their countertop, they’re typically looking only at color and pattern. Nowadays, you have options for the surface texture and sheen of your stone, as well.
These are some of the more popular finishes you can see at your local fabricator or one of our showrooms.
Honed Granite:
Honed granite has a matte finish. This surface is smooth and the stone is less vibrant than polished stone. Stone enhancer can be used on honed to bring the color back out. Honed finish is probably second most popular to polished.
Flamed Granite:
Flamed granite has a rougher surface created by the use of intense heat. During fabrication, the stone is heated and the crystals begin to pop and form a rough surface. This is a less available option and the rough texture can make cleaning more difficult, so it’s not for everyone.
Leather Granite:
Second to honed, leather granite is probably the third most popular texture for granite countertops. The texture is created using a series of wire brushes on the stone. The softer the stone is, the deeper the texture will be.
The experienced designers at Kitchen Views will help you to understand the pros and cons of whatever countertop materials you are considering.
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Formica’s 77 finish tends to wear funny; the high spots turn white (as you wear through the color layer) and I wonder what stone with a leather finish (same idea) looks like after years of use.
I’m also curious as to how the newer ceramic knives do if you cut veggies right on leather granite. How does the granite make out when you do that? I’ve not yet purchased any ceramic knives to test things out…
great options to choose from.
I love the look and feel of granite. Obviously more expensive than other materials but well worth it. I just got new granite countertops put into my kitchen last month. I was definitely looking for the best prices because we all know how expensive it can be. Personally I went with Granite Countertops Anyone in the market for granite countertops should definitely check them out. I am definitely happy with the quality as well.
Granite is a very nice material, I’d easily recommend it to anyone considering a granite countertop.
Granite Kitchen Countertops really looks amazing. Granite countertops have become the top choice for kitchen countertops. This is because of their beauty and durability. For my Kitchen, I have used black granite countertops and I had taken help from Eskandari Stone.
We recently installed a few granite countertop pieces for some clients. Beautiful piece of rock, it transforms the whole kitchen.. looks great in the bathroom too! Or around a bar. Great post!