Granite: Windsor Homeowners have Expressive Options

 

Granite is becoming the material of choice for upgrading one's home kitchen, bathroom or common floor way. The many different designs and durability make it a wonderful choice to express personality and personal design while maintaining a functional purpose as well. There are many different granite and stone fabricators in the province to choose from when deciding on what granite to use in home renovations and decorating. Where should one start to look when considering this fine upgrade for the home?

 

Many companies offer a sampling of granite patterns and colours on their website. The best place to start is online with company reviews and testimonials. From there, one can visit a show room and meet with an expert in granite and other stone fabrication. The two main types of granite are classic and exotic. Classic granite is typically reddish-pink or grey in hue and has a very granular appearance. Exotic granite is a bit more expressive and can have different striations and patterns locked within its hard surface. The difference comes from where in the world the granite is formed. South American deposits from Brazil tend to have more of a dramatic look, while classic granite is grainy.

 

Granite is also a great selection for durability. The counter is finished with a diamond polish, leaving it flawless in appearance and glossy. It is not very porous making it great for high traffic hall way areas for flooring, or for kitchen countertops where food is being prepared. It is very clean looking and easy to maintain. Given the diamond polish, it is very hard to scuff or scratch granite surfaces.

 

It is important to note that no two slabs of granite are the same. While one sample of colour and pattern is found in a show room, it is important to note that the slab that is selected for kitchen or bathroom countertops will be similar but unique and individual. This adds personality and character to whatever room in the house will be using the granite. Ask the fabricator specific questions about slab pricing vs. tiling. Tiles are the best choice for flooring, while slabs make a much nicer presentation for countertops. Tiles could be used for counters as well. The slab though will offer added durability.

 

 

With edging design, a slab of granite used for a countertop can become almost artistic, matching other types of molding and designs in the home. There are different types of edging for granite countertops, including:

Eased edge is also referred to as the "pencil edge.” It's a rounded edge that is usually used on kitchen countertops. It is safe for children as there are no sharp edges. It is lower cost than the other types of decorative edging, and very simple. It rarely chips as well, making it more effective for repeated use.

 

The waterfall edge is decorative and is three distinctive lines that jut out one after the other, giving it a waterfall appearance. These are more expensive types of edging given the attention to detail and the manner in which the granite requires cutting. The bullnose edge is completely rounded, although there are variations of the bullnose that offer a bit more flare than a simple eased edge.

 

An ogee edge is square in shape, but has a secondary edge that juts out giving it a pleasant and decorative look. This style is more costly than the basic eased edge, but not as elaborate as the waterfall. A show room specialist can offer more information about the types of edges and the price range for what is needed to complete the fit for a kitchen or bathroom granite countertop.

 

If a consumer finds a granite fabricator that offers the right designs and the right price, but is outside of the customer's area – look for a reputable company that offers shipping and delivery in a timely fashion. There are many retailers that offer delivery and installation within Ontario, while others are limited in their delivery area. Once selection is made, a unique piece of granite can be installed in the home for a sharp new look!