Selecting the right granite for your home can be a daunting process. From durability considerations to aesthetic preferences, the choices seem endless. However, as we discovered, getting expert guidance can make all the difference. We turned to Marble Systems, one of the industry’s leading providers of natural stone, and a locally owned 3national organization, to help us demystify the process of granite selection.
Granite is a natural stone, formed under the Earth’s surface from its magma. It is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica, and its natural variations ensure that no two slabs are the same. Granite is well-known for its robustness, durability, and low maintenance requirements. This makes it a popular choice for a variety of household applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and flooring.
Marble Systems has been in the natural stone industry for over 35 years, sourcing their materials from some of the world’s finest quarries. They offer an extensive range of natural stone products including granite, marble, travertine, and slate, among others.
The goal, as far as granite is concerned, is to help customers find a balance between utility and aesthetics. The experts at Marble Systems certainly take into consideration factors like the usage, location, and lighting in the space where the granite will be installed. Then, with all the data they need, their professionals suggest options that could best meet the customer’s needs.
Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to consider where the granite will be installed. Will it be a high-traffic area like a kitchen, or more of a showpiece in a formal living room? According to Marble Systems, the functionality of the space can significantly impact the type of granite you should choose.
The lighter the color, the more porous the stone tends to be. In a kitchen, you might want to go for a darker or more densely patterned granite to hide potential stains. In a bathroom, a lighter shade might be more appropriate to create an airy ambiance, we learned.
One of the most intimidating aspects of choosing granite is the cost. Prices can range widely based on factors like origin, color, and availability. However, Marble Systems assures us that there are budget-friendly options that do not compromise on quality.
From their perspective, many customers assume that the more exotic the stone, the better the quality. This is, however, a myth. Some local varieties are equally durable and beautiful but come at a fraction of the cost. In fact, you can see a wide variety of them at their showrooms across the country.
Marble Systems advocates the value of viewing stone samples in person. Their showrooms offer customers an opportunity to interact with various granite options, observe them under different lighting conditions, and even place them next to other elements like cabinetry or flooring to get a complete picture.
Virtual browsing has its merits, but nothing replaces the tactile experience of stone, according to the professionals. At the end of the day, granite has intricate patterns and a unique feel that you can only fully appreciate in person.
Once your granite is installed, understanding how to maintain it is critical. Fortunately, the maintenance regime for granite is relatively straightforward. A sealant is usually applied post-installation and needs to be re-applied every one to two years, depending on the stone’s exposure to wear and tear. In fact, proper sealing and occasional polishing can make your granite last a lifetime. It’s an essential you need to be prepared for but is relatively easy to do.
While the journey to select the perfect granite may appear rocky at the outset, with expert help from companies like Marble Systems, the process becomes far more navigable. By considering factors like functionality, aesthetics, budget, and aftercare, homeowners can make an informed decision that adds both beauty and longevity to their living spaces.