What is granite?
Granite is an igneous rock made up of silica, quartz and feldspar. It is formed from rapidly cooling volcanic magma. Magma, the molten rock on which the Earth’s continents float, is actually composed of different molten elements. When underground, magma is forced to withstand extreme pressures and temperature differentials.
If a magma river composed mostly of silicate bases and is moved from a high-temperature area to a cooler one, it loses heat quickly and hardens into granite. All the rocks, minerals, and ores melted in the magma flow cool at different temperatures, separating into their base elements and resulting in the intricate texture and pattern that granite is known for.
Ideal for:
- kitchen bench tops
- splash backs
- vanities
- laundries
- counter tops/reception desks
- bar tops
- staircases
- shower walls
- bathroom wall lining/feature walls
- BBQ tops/Outdoor kitchens
Granite is a natural product which is porous and more fragile than engineered stone. Therefore it has no warranty, so the proper care and maintenance guidelines must be followed to ensure your granite maintains its good looks for many years.
Care & Maintenance
Prior to any natural stone bench top being installed it is sealed with a specialized penetrative sealer within our factory and again when installation is completed. It should be sealed every 6-12 months to prevent any staining to your bench top.
If left unsealed, spills and everyday messes can easily penetrate the surface. The liquid will eventually evaporate but the stain is left behind. Sealing is as easy as applying the product to the surface with a clean soft cloth and giving your bench top a few coats and left to dry.
For further protection assistance for granite AAA Absolute Stone recommends Lithofin products for stone cleaning, enhancing polish, protection sealing, and oil & stain removers. For more information on these products visit www.lithofin.com where you can have products delivered straight to you.
Everyday Cleaning
Granite is made of natural minerals that may react to cleaning chemicals & acids not intended for natural stone care use. Particular varieties of natural stone consists mainly calcium carbonate and are extremely sensitive to acid (e.g. Granite, marble, and limestone).
As with any other stone product, clean regularly. Once your stone counter has been sealed it is relatively easy to keep clean. Make sure to wipe up any spills immediately to prevent the liquid absorbing into the stone. Cleaning suggestions:
- Wash with clean hot water and methylated spirits (10 parts water to 1 part methylated spirits). Wipe the surface dry with a clean soft cloth after cleaning.
- Use clean warm water and a mild detergent, and wipe the surface with a damp soft cloth or a non scratch cleaning pad or sponge.
Prevent Damage
- Avoid exposing your stone bench top to strong chemicals such as oven cleaners, oil, paint removers, fruit juices, or any other acidic liquids. If spills do occur wash immediately with clean water and follow with your normal cleaning procedures.
- Do not use you counter top as a chopping board. This will cause permanent deep scratches.
- Do not sit or stand on your bench top, as excessive weight will cause it to crack.
- Avoid dropping heavy or sharp objects on the bench top as chips and cracks will occur and cannot be repaired easily. We cannot guarantee the repairs to be invisible and any repairs will be at an extra cost.
- Do not use oil based cleaners (e.g. turpentine kerosene, etc).
- Avoid placing any hot items directly onto your bench top. Use trivets and heat pads to prevent your stone from cracking.
- Seal your bench top every 6-12 months. Sealing fills in the pores and repels spills on the surface, allowing you time to completely wipe it away.
For more information plus their full range of available stock, Please visit our main suppliers web sites for Natural Stone, listed below: