Few kinds of stones provide the character and grandeur of granite. Because of the availability of several finishes and colours, Granite Tiles Melbourne fit well in both modern and traditional homes. Though they might cost a bit, these tiles are exceptionally durable and will stay beautiful for a lifetime.
What is granite?
It is a kind of igneous rock that was formed in the earth by magma which has cooled slowly. It is mainly composed of feldspar, mica, quartz, and other materials. These combine to form the durable and hard natural stone that is granite.
Being one of the most common kinds of stone found on earth, the mining of granite is conducted in large bedrock quarries in Brazil, China, Canada, the US, Italy, etc. After mining, the ore is subject to a process called milling, wherein granite blocks are cut into slabs around 7 to 9 feet long. The latter is polished to improve the natural pattern and colour of the stone.
The looks of granite
Thanks to the natural components of granite, it has a typical crystalline, granular look that features visible mineral grains in various sizes and colours. These grains can differ from large crystals to fine flecks. They form a wide range of looks and patterns of veins, based on the variety.
The different minerals in granite additionally make for several colours in the stone. Among the common colours in granite include black, white, brown, and grey. Certain kinds of granite also come in dramatic colours like green and blue.
Top ten uses of granite tiles
- Monuments
From shrines and temples to graveyards, they all look grand when made of granite. They last for several generations due to the longevity of the material. Prior to the existence of power equipment, making figurines from granite used to be time-consuming. Yet, granite has been a popular material for creating monuments thanks to its grandeur and endurance.
2. For strong construction
What is common among the Great Pyramids, Cathedrals, and Roman bridges? Of course, granite! Several early, historic buildings made use of granite for powerful construction. Since it is possible to refine granite to a gorgeous lustre or be cladded in other stones, it has been typically used to give support to huge pillars.
3. Beautiful flooring
Granite in its refined form is an attractive natural stone and is typically used to complement marble in flooring. While marble has striking veining features, granite has more subtle patterns, making these two stones perfect matches. Granite floors last for hundreds of years. They are also zero maintenance.
4. Patios and paths
Solid slabs of granite are perfect for outdoor use since they can weather changes in climate and are quite sturdy. Also surprising is the variety of shades that granite comes in, from black and grey to green and red.
5. Building blocks and wall cladding
Structure blocks of granite have multiple uses. Granite blocks that are rough-hewn look very dissimilar from the high gloss refined stone often found in homes. In many cultures, rough-hewn blocks of granite are used for cladding or construction blocks for crucial buildings like religious buildings and town halls.
6.Tile and Mosaic patterns
Natural granite can be accessed in different colours. As such, it is totally possible to create a mosaic or tile pattern using only stones of granite. Making use of a single kind of this durable stone is an ideal way to ensure that no part of the pattern of the floor will wear out.
7.Bathroom tiles and backsplashes
Modern technology has enabled the slashing of granite into thinner tiles which makes it perfect for backsplashes or covered bathrooms. Hence, granite is both blemish and water-resistant. It can easily weather dust and moisture. The same kind of tiles can be used for both floor and cladding of the bathroom, which provides a uniform-coloured bathroom. For a non-slippery floor in the bathroom, one can use leather finished tiles of granite. The latter prevents skidding in the bathroom. This is also possible with flamed finished and matt finished granite tiles.
8. Staircases and mantlepieces
Huge slabs of granite can be used to showcase the beauty of this material. The use of granite in staircases and mantlepieces is popular because of its blend of realism and magic. Stairs will not wear away, and mantlepieces will be flame resistant.
9. Kitchen worktops
Granite is a highly popular choice for countertops in the kitchen. It is hard to break, easy to clean, resistant to temperature, dirt-resistant, and water-resistant. Hence, it is an ideal tile for the kitchen as well as the bathroom.
10. Gemstones
Generally, granite is a regular, reasonably priced material for building projects. However, some kinds of granite come in rare and striking colours and textures. As such, they may be considered gemstones and set in ornaments. For instance, the K2 Azurite Granite in the Himalayas has a dramatic blue hue and is valued as a gemstone.
In sum, the beauty and utility of granite tiles surpass that of any other tile material. Granite tiles Melbourne are an eco-friendly, versatile, durable, and attractive choice.
