Granite is an igneous rock created deep within the earth from magma, cooled slowly under great pressure. It is the hardest building stone with very dense grain, making it virtually impervious to stain. It takes a highly polished finish, which will endure even in the wettest environments. There is a wide range of granite colors ranging from almost pure white to almost pure black. During its formation, granite may also have been infused with other minerals such as quartz providing a variety of patterns as well as colors.
Weathering
Stone
generally weathers better than other building materials; however, not
all stone endures equally well. Some are subject to greater damage from
freezing and thawing and attack from sulfurous and sulfuric acid, carbonic
acid and ammonium salts. They may also be subject to chemical distress
caused by crystal growth from chloride salts. One result of this crystal
growth is spawling of the stone surface at street level. Granite is nearly
impervious to weathering from temperature changes and from airborne chemicals.
In fact, granite is so resistant to chemical erosion that granite tanks
are often used to store highly caustic materials.
Granite
has been used since ancient times as a building material.
Commonly used for monuments,
granite can be found in office buildings from the floor to the stairways
and walls, both interior and exterior. What makes granite so popular
in commercial construction? It's attractive, easy to maintain, and virtually
indestructible. Because we are a high volume granite dealer and installer,
Artistic Counters can offer residential granite surfaces at very affordable
prices. Whether you need a kitchen countertop, bathroom vanity, or shower
stall, compare the cost and you'll agree, granite just makes sense.
Discover
the timeless beauty of granite.
Copyright 2004 Artistic Counters Inc.