Image number 32 of the current section of Granite floors: exclusive and durable of Cosentino USA

Granite floors: exclusive and durable

granite flooring

Granite floors have become the most sought after option for people looking for beauty, resistance and durability, all primary characteristics of this natural stone made of materials like transparent quartz, feldspar and biotite. We will here explain why granite might just be the coating you are looking for for your project, detailing which granites are more common, their colors, and give you some advices for their maintenance.

Granite, a robust and lasting material for interior and exterior uses alike

granite flooring

Terrace with a beige granite floor

Granite is a igneous or volcanic rock formed when magma, located under the earth’s surface, cools down and slowly hardens under high pressure, creating quartz crystals, quartz, feldspar, and mica.

When it is composed between 10% and 50% of quartz, it then qualifies as quartz, one of the most used material to design countertops, work surfaces, coatings, floors, etc., thanks to its properties, of which durability, low maintenance and functionality most stand out. Moreover, because it’s a natural stone, it is an eco-friendly and completely recyclable material, a perfect option for inside and outside spaces alike.

Download our free guide: A Guide to Stunning Kitchen Designs

It can sometimes be mistaken for marble. These two surface nevertheless have fundamental differences, particularly the low porosity of granite and its superior resistance to chemical products and erosion. Moreover, quartz, an essential element in its composition, makes it more robust, which then converts it in one of the preferred material to use for floors as well.

Granite colors and coatings

granite flooring

Samples of granites of different colors

Different granite types, colors and coatings are available for floorings. Its origin and coloration can directly impact its durability, its porosity level, its design and its density.

The most common shades are made of white, cream, pink, green, reddish, blue and black colors. The most water-resistant are the green and red shades; the latter, along with black, are the most resistant, thus being perfect to use as exterior granite floors.

Some specific processes can produce a different finish for the same type of granite:

  • Polished. This process generates a flat, shiny and soft surface, without ridges or dents.
  • Serrated. It is created by cutting the granite with a diamond saw blade or with a steel metallic tape or strip; the resulting surface is whiter, matter, smoother and a bit rough.
  • Honed. Process similar to the polished, but without gloss.
  • Flamed. It is achieved on previously serrated granite, which features a rugged surface without altering its initial color. Greater protection is obtained through this process, making it ideal to apply on exposed exterior granite floors.
  • Bush-hammered. It is one of the most traditional coating, which clears up the stone’s shade, gives it a smooth texture and features some irregularities.
  • The special process for granite Sensa by Cosentino preserves the color and natural beauty of each board because it lets the granite breathes, penetrating and anchoring itself in the structure of the natural stone.

Granite floors: maintenance to enjoy a flawless floor

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Living area with fireplace and medium grey granite floor

Granite floors can be used in spaces with a high traffic because of its solidity. It also provides an adequate thermal insulation, to fight off humidity and noise pollution, properties making this type of surfaces perfect for residential or commercial use.

Stylish and practical, granite floors are also very easy to clean and maintain. A standard cleaning routine with the use of simple water without any special products is enough to maintain a well-kept floor.

It is nevertheless important to keep in mind that, even if granite is not very porous, if any liquid is spilled or if it is stained, it is advised to clean it right away so that the liquid won’t penetrate the granite. Concerning the cleaning products, it is best to avoid corrosive products, a neutral detergent being more than enough.

In extreme cases, granite can be polished to regain its original beauty and gloss; more commonly used for countertops than floors because, in most cases, it will not be necessary thanks to the stone’s natural solidity and resistance.

Opting for this natural stone for the design of any type of room is one of the best alternatives. Its primary properties along with the wide range of colors, textures and coatings it offers, provide beauty, durability and longevity to any surface.

Download our free guide: A Guide to Stunning Kitchen Designs