Natural
Granite and Marble Slab – Timeless Beauty
Natural stone elements can make a room
come alive. With a look that is warm, inviting and permanent, natural stone
adds quality and value to a home. Natural stone can be used for small tile back
splashes, as flooring in an entrance way or as the surface of a large kitchen
island. Types of natural stone available are limestone, onyx, slate, sandstone,
soapstone and, of course, the two most popular: granite and marble. Here’s what
you need to know about working with granite and marble slab in Toronto.
Granite
Slab
Granite, mined from quarries of ancient
volcanic rock, is one of the most durable stones on earth. It is
stain-resistant, heat-resistant and antimicrobial, making it a popular choice
for a kitchen island or countertop, bathroom vanity or dining room tabletop.
Colours range from the softly muted or the bright and dramatic, with shades of
white, cream, beige, amber, green, lavender, blue and black. Granite may have
sweeping veins or more traditional salt and pepper speckles.
Marble
Slab
Classic marble is a softer stone that
is actually metamorphosed limestone. Marble, although extremely durable and
long lasting, is more porous than granite, making it more susceptible to
scratches or wear. Some people love the look of worn marble, incorporating it
into their kitchens as a feature. For instance, marble works well in a pastry
or baking station as it is ideal for rolling out dough because it doesn’t
conduct heat.
Finishes
Granite can be polished to a high gloss, which is perfect
for a gleaming kitchen counter, but too slippery for a floor. Be careful about choosing a glossy black for
a bathroom countertop, as it can often show water or toothpaste stains, which
need to be constantly wiped down in order to keep it looking great. Marble
and granite may also have a honed or matte finish, giving it the appearance of a
smooth eggshell. Consider what edging serves your purposes: square with a
mitered edge or rounded.
Care of Natural Stone
Surfaces
- Don’t place hot or abrasive objects directly on
a natural stone; although both marble and granite can stand up to heat, you may
end up placing that red hot pot directly on a seam or slight internal
flaw.
- It’s not advised to cut directly on marble or
granite; although neither surface is likely to be damaged, you will be
scratching your sealant and dulling your knives.
- Always wipe up spills as soon a possible,
especially wine, coffee or acidic juices including lemon, orange or tomato
juice. Use just a damp cloth, a gentle cleaner or a special stone
cleanser.
- Never use an ammonia based cleaner, which can
dull the surface.
Make sure your natural stone is sealed
properly. Sealant can be used on marble, but may darken lighter shades of white
or cream, so test a patch to see if you like the results.
Style
at Home recommends having your sealant
replaced when drops of water no longer bead on the surface.
For touches of timeless beauty in your
home, find a reputable source for working with granite and marble slab in
Toronto.