Leathered granite can be both smooth and rough, depending on the type of finish applied. Leathered granite typically has a textured finish, which can range in levels of roughness. Some types of leathered granite may have a more polished finish, making them smooth to the touch.
The amount of brushing, honing, and polishing applied to the granite will ultimately determine how smooth or rough the finished surface is. Generally, the more brushing and buffing that is applied to the stone, the smoother it will be.
What is better leathered or polished granite?
Whether polished or leathered granite is better really depends on your preference, lifestyle, and the specific application. Both offer unique visuals, functional qualities, and maintenance needs.
Polished granite has a glossy, glass-like finish, which is created by grinding the surface down with diamond-tipped polishers. It is resistant to scratches and very easy to keep clean. It is ideal for kitchen, bathroom, and floor areas, where the sleek look and higher level of maintenance are desirable.
Leathered granite has somewhat of a textured finish and a dull matte sheen, which is created by brushing the surface with steel wool. It is more resistant to scratches and marks but is not as easy to clean and maintain.
It is often used in areas that are subject to high traffic, such as restaurants, lobbies, and store entrances. The softer matte finish is more desirable for those looking for a less formal look.
In the end, the choice between leathered or polished granite ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific application.
Is it hard to clean leathered granite?
Cleaning leathered granite can be both easy and difficult, depending on the finish and the specific cleaning product you choose to use. Generally, leathered granite is easier to clean and maintain than other types of stone because it’s more porous, so it resists oil and water-based stains and requires less overall effort in cleaning.
When cleaning leathered granite, it’s important to use a soft microfiber cloth, as anything too abrasive could damage the finish. If you’re dealing with dirt, dust, or light mildew, a simple warm water and mild, pH-neutral soap will do the trick.
For heavily soiled surfaces or tough stains, a specialty stone cleaner designed for black and dark-colored natural stone is best. Be sure to avoid harsh cleaners and solvents, and always read and follow the instructions on your cleaning products.
Why is leathered granite more expensive?
Leathered granite is more expensive because of the special process involved in creating the unique texture. It is a more labor-intensive process compared to other types of countertops, since it requires grinding and brushing the granite surface with a stiff-bristle brush or a diamond pad to achieve the desired texture.
This process needs to be done very carefully, so extra care is taken which is reflected in the cost. If the initial process is not done correctly, it may result in an uneven finish or damage to the stone, requiring extra effort and material to fix.
Additionally, the finish of leathered granite is also more expensive to maintain since it tends to require more frequent cleaning, sealing and polishing in order to keep its attractive appearance and to maximize its lifespan.
Can you put hot pans on leathered granite?
No, it is not recommended to put hot pans on leathered granite as doing so could potentially cause discoloration or thermal shock, which may result in cracking. The heat generated from the hot pans can draw the moisture out of the stone, potentially causing it to warp or crack due to the rapid temperature change.
Furthermore, the heat produced by hot pans may cause discoloration in leathered granite, giving it an oily appearance or darkening its color. To be on the safe side, it is best to use trivets or heat pads beneath the hot pans to prevent any unwanted damage to the leathered granite.
What does it mean when granite is leathered?
When granite is leathered, it means that the surface of the granite has been given a textured, leather-like finish. This type of finish is achieved by using a block containing small diamonds to grind the surface of the granite in a back-and-forth motion.
The result is a unique, satiny matte finish that not only provides a low-maintenance, easy-to-clean look, but also adds character and depth to the stone. A leathered granite finish looks particularly good in contemporary, modern or rustic settings due to its matte appearance and three-dimensional texture.
Unlike other glossy, highly polished countertops, leathered granite requires less maintenance in the long run and is easier to clean.
What are the pros and cons of leathered granite?
The pros of leathered granite are that it has a beautiful, matte finish that is easy to maintain. It’s also resistant to cracking and chipping, and it’s much less likely to stain due to its nonporous surface.
Its unique leathered finish also adds a unique and unique look to any room.
However, there are some cons to leathered granite. It can be difficult to find the right color, and it’s often more expensive than regular granite. Additionally, the color and finish will gradually fade with age, so maintenance is important to keep it looking its best.
Also, while it’s not a major issue, it’s important to note that leathered granite can feel somewhat slick or slippery when wet.