Are you considering leathered granite for your home, but still have questions and concerns? When most people think of granite, they think of a shiny slab of natural stone that has a lot movement and color variation in its appearance. Polished granite is being pushed aside and leathered granite is taking center stage.
Leathered granite is not shiny, glossy, or polished. Unlike polished granite, it has a textured surface that can be felt with the touch of a hand. This texture is composed of tiny fissures and pits that mimic the feel of real leather. The extent of this pebbly surface will vary across each individual slab.
Leathered Granite is a Process
Leathered granite is not naturally occurring. The leathering process is a lengthy and difficult procedure. To achieve this unique look, the surface of a typical piece of granite is run over with diamond tipped brushes multiple times. This strips away any imperfections, but keeps the natural grooves and contours.
This is the main reason why the intensity of the texture will vary across leathered granite slabs. It is purely up to the fabricator how far they want to take the process.
There are some things to consider when deciding between polished or leathered granite.
Leathered Granite is Unique but Chic
Although leathered granite is rustic, and it can blend into even the most contemporary décor. It is available in a variety of tones and textures, making your leathered granite countertop one of a kind.
Bold Texture of Leathered Granite
Leathered granite is appealing to the senses because it offers a more muted visual appearance coupled with a coarse surface that is sensitive to the touch. Leathered granite offers all of the unique character of traditional polished granite but with a twist.
Natural Colors and Tones of Leathered Granite
Although leathered granite goes through a fabrication process to achieve its look, the colors are still pure to nature. Leathered granite does tend to come in darker tones and colors, but they are all naturally occurring.
The leathering process does tend to accentuate some of the highlighting colors that are throughout the slab.
Advanced Stain Resistance of Leathered Granite
The leathering process does tighten up the millions of pores that pepper the surface of any granite. This makes it even more resistant to staining. Also, because of the more muted surface, fingerprints and water spots are not as visible. This means less polishing and maintenance to keep your countertops looking great.
Is Leathered Granite Difficult to Clean?
On the other hand, the same tight pores that keep fingerprints away can easily collect crumbs and debris. This is not the case with the smooth and polished surface of traditional granite.
Sealing Your Leathered Granite
Sealing any granite countertop is recommended to increase its durability and resistance to stain and damage. However, sealing your leathered granite will give it some sheen which is what people are trying to avoid when choosing leathered granite. Also, because of the muted surface, brush strokes and bubbles from applying the sealant are more visible on a leathered granite countertop.
Whether you install leathered granite in your kitchen, bathroom, or outside, it will be a highly coveted addition to your home. With varying options available in unique colors and textures you can rest assured that your leathered granite countertop will be one of a kind.