Why Granite is Preferred for Cemetery Monuments

Why Granite is Preferred for Cemetery Monuments

 

Any visit to a cemetery should provide a clear indication that granite is the preferred stone for monuments. The elemental composition of this durable product is primarily feldspar and quartz, but only a small percentage is considered good enough to use in the creation of memorials.

This is why you never see color imperfections, visible flaws, or fractures in slabs used in cemeteries. Other stones that are used to create headstones are inferior in their ability to remain intact and legible after the first few years of weather exposure.

Granite Is Dense and Durable

People tend to group marble and granite together as though they are the same, but granite is considerably stronger. Diamonds are a great material to use as a comparison tool because it’s one of the hardest, with a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.

A natural slab of granite is going to range between 6 and 7, and the man-made products are considered a 5. The actual task of cutting, polishing, and carving granite is more difficult because the molecules are packed tighter than marble, but it’s worth the investment in a headstone that will last.

Marble is much weaker than both man-made and natural granite because it falls into a rating of 3.

Why Is There Marble In Cemeteries?

Older cemeteries that feature monuments dating back to the mid 1800’s contain a lot of marble. It was the most popular choice because the tools used in that time period could easily work with marble.

Unfortunately, marble is a calcite structure that is going to erode when exposed to salt and other pollutants in the air. This is why the older memorials are barely legible and highly deteriorated compared to granite monuments being exposed to the same weather conditions.

Better tools and techniques were gradually introduced after the 1920’s and this helped granite become the most preferred choice in modern headstones.

Cherish the memory of your loved one by selecting the very best piece of granite for their memorial. We have an exceptional selection of unique slabs to accommodate any size and color specifications that you request. Take a minute to complete the contact form so that we can begin discussing the granite options that we offer.

Before You Buy Granite Countertops, Think About This!

Before You Buy Granite Countertops, Think About This!

 

The same granite that was once exclusive to high-end homes is now a more affordable upgrade option available to all types of homeowners. There are a lot of different granite products on the market, and it’s common that the average person wouldn’t know what to look for when making their purchase.

You need to understand exactly how to find a quality product, and which questions to ask your fabricator regarding the manufacturing process and installation.

Is the Granite Fabricated Using a Machine or By Hand?

There are some products that turn out better when handled entirely by a machine, but this is not always true of granite. Each company has their preferred method of fabrication, including the option of hand-polishing after the machine.

Speak with the fabricator to find out more about their process, and consider the use of wax as a major red flag. If the company uses wax to improve the appearance of the edges, it’s going to wear off quickly.

Inquire About Seam Leveling

Multiple pieces of granite that are assembled for a countertop have to be pieced together carefully to avoid noticeable seams. A granite company might do this before the fabrication process for a more attractive edge. Anytime a fabricator uses a suction-automated machine during the installation, the seams are going to appear exceptionally level.

Ask If the Granite Company Performs Their Own Installations

Local suppliers are much more likely to handle the entire process on their own than a large warehouse chain. An out-of-towner or third-party company will be difficult to reach if you have an issue during or after the installation. If you want to have adequate support then you make it a point to work with a local company.

Accept Nothing Less Than 3-Centimeter Granite

There is a higher risk of breakage if you select a granite product that is only 2-centimeters. Many consider granite that is mined in Italy or Brazil will to offer the best quality, and you should consider the extra expense of working with a distributor a worthwhile investment.

Don’t rush into a long-term investment like granite without a thorough understanding of the exact product you are getting. We would be happy to teach you everything that you need to know if you reach out to our fabricators through the contact form.

How To Choose The Perfect Natural Stone

How To Choose The Perfect Natural Stone

 

Adding the timeless charm of natural stone to your home is a smart investment, even if it’s only incorporated into small details.

Granite is one of the most recognizable and common stones, but there are so many other material options that you should consider.

If you prefer a more unusual option, onyx could provide a very unique feature in your interior design. As long as you do the research regarding maintenance requirements, it will be easy to find the right product among the vast world of natural stone types.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Try to find your natural stone locally if possible by touring different design centers and showrooms in the area.

Most companies allow you to browse samples so that they can order a stone similar to your preferred style. However, you need to understand that the slabs are each unique and it might be more of an advantage to actually visit our showroom. This ensures that you will get the exact slab that you want to use in your home design.

Not everything is about looks, but it’s a great place to begin narrowing the choices. Consult with an on-site expert to discuss the qualities of the stones you are most interested in using.

Once you have picked out a stone, decide on the finish that best suits your installation plan. A high polish is unsuitable for a bathroom floor, but it looks great as a countertop.

Some stones hold up better with specific finishes because they mask scratches that are likely to accumulate on softer surfaces. Matte or honed stones look the most natural, but a distressed stone offers the charm of an aged appearance. Discuss your preferred style and always ask to view samples to help you choose the perfect stone.

Granite

Granite is a valuable option in areas that require hardness, such as a kitchen countertop or fireplace surround. It can take on damage if you are careless, but it’s pretty difficult to create stains or scratches.

Granite Kitchen Countertop

Limestone

Limestone is exceptional as a bathroom surface or kitchen floor if you choose a quality piece. Maintaining the unique texture is easy if you take care to have it resealed as often as needed.

Limestone Bathroom

Marble

Marble is best for tub surrounds, a vanity top, backsplash, or flooring if the conditions of the area permit installation of a softer stone. It is absorbent, but take precaution when adding protection because lighter slabs may darken if a sealant is applied.

Marble Countertops

Onyx

Onyx is a translucent stone that features striking colors, such as jet black and bright white. Once sealed and polished, the stone can take on a very high gloss that is great for a vanity top or bathtub surround.

Woodland hotel - onyx bar countertop

Sandstone

Sandstone is naturally dense, but the actual level of durability may vary greatly from one slab to another. If you do intend to use as a bathtub surround or kitchen floor, consider having it sealed every few months to maintain the surface.

Sandstone Bathroom

Slate

Slate features a typically matte surface with unique clefts that offer an unusual appearance in flooring and countertops. Preservation does involve sealing, and you should limit cleaning to very neutral products.

Slate Kitchen Countertop

Soapstone

Soapstone is ideal for kitchen countertops and fireplace surrounds because it is very resistant to heat. Sealing is not recommended, and you can remove most scratches by lightly sanding or applying mineral oil.

Soapstone Countertops

Travertine

Travertine is very porous and actually has an appearance similar to a sponge, but the holes can be filled before installation. Otherwise, expect to make a constant effort to keep the countertop clean and dry.

Modern colorful Travertine bathroom tub area.

You are welcome to reach out through the contact form to schedule a tour of our natural stone showroom.

What are the latest styles in commercial restrooms?

What are the latest styles in commercial restrooms?

There are people with actual phobias of public restrooms because they have a reputation of being unsanitary and ugly. Consider the ambiance of the bathroom in your business to recognize the need to complete some important updates. It should be easy to find solutions that will make employees and customers feel comfortable and safe. You may decide that a few small updates are sufficient, or it might require an entire remodel to achieve your ideal modern design.

Touch Free Fixtures

Think about how many restaurants you avoid simply because they have a disgusting restroom. No one wants to feel that they are being exposed to filth and bacteria that could potentially cause a serious illness. The usual culprits are contaminated toilet seats and floors, but your greatest risk of exposure is actually during the process of hand washing. A total of 19 different bacterial phyla were identified by University of Colorado scientists collecting samples from public restroom surfaces. It’s not even safe to touch the exterior of a soap dispenser because it’s being contaminated regularly throughout each day.

Commercial restrooms are implementing touch-free soap dispensers, flushing mechanisms, hand dryers, and faucets to help visitors avoid contact with germs. It’s also easier for facility owners to maintain cleanliness with these innovative features.

Sustainable Materials

Public restroom products are put to the test each day by enduring frequent use during business hours. Manufacturers are beginning to recognize the value of using sustainable materials to improve the overall lifespan of their products. Engineered stone used as countertop surfaces is created from recycled materials to ensure a more durable final product. In fact, most recycled and renewable materials are suitable for heavy usage in an environment that is often damp or humid. High Density Polyethylene plastic is another recycled product found in most modern commercial restrooms.

Luxurious Design

Visitors are more likely to visit an establishment that offers a sophisticated and updated restroom. Stainless steel, granite, and other stone products are becoming trendy because they offer exceptional bacteria resistance and cleanliness. It’s easy to sanitize natural stone flooring, especially if you compare it to the grimy reputation of traditional laminate. Granite countertops are sleek, non-porous, and have the ability to make every business feel like a high-end establishment.

Get in touch with our team of designers by completing the contact form to find out about our commercial restroom solutions and products that we offer.

Why Does Some Granite Cost More Than Other Granite?

Why Does Some Granite Cost More Than Other Granite?

Adding granite to your bathroom or kitchen remodel is an exceptional decision to increase the value and appeal of your living spaces. You may notice, however, that the price quotes for different pieces of natural granite can vary considerably. They may seem similar to the untrained eye, but there are a lot of factors that contribute to the price per square foot. Once you understand why there are variations, you can feel confident making a quality selection for your home that is also affordable.

    • • Grading – The grade that is given to granite is determined by the durability, hardness, and overall quality of the piece. You might also find that some of the larger slabs happen to be graded higher than a smaller piece.

 

    • • Country of Origin – One of the most obvious reasons that the country the slab comes from contributes to the cost is shipping. In addition, the expense of doing business in some countries is going to reflect in the price of the piece. For example, a piece that comes from Italy is going to cost less than one that comes from China, even though they may be of the exact same quality.

 

    • • Rarity – The less available a certain color or pattern is, the more it is going to cost to obtain. A common type that is easily found in several places in the country is not going to be as expensive as one only found in a certain area.

 

    • • Hardness – A slab of a hard granite carries a higher price because of the time and labor it takes to mine and fabricate the stone. It’s a great quality to look for in a countertop surface, but you are going to pay more as a result.

 

    • • Fragile – Homeowners do not shy away from the more delicate stones when they want genuine luxury. There is a high risk of accidental breakage in the production and transportation of the finished product. Some of the expense can be attributed to careful handling necessary when bringing a fragile granite to market.

 

If two different companies provide a different price on very similar pieces of granite, consider that their inventory is not the same. One may include installation, edging, sealing, and other work into the square foot estimate. Or they may base their products using different standards that would make one piece price at low-quality when it is sold as mid-level at another.

At Flemington Granite, we encourage you to visit our showroom to get a no-obligation quote on different slabs of granite that we carry. You will see for yourself that our products make a great addition to any home remodel project.

Natural Stone Can Make Any Pool A Treasure

Natural Stone Can Make Any Pool A Treasure

Any home with a swimming pool is provided with the luxury of relaxation in an outdoor setting. The area surrounding your pool should not only show off your personality, it should match the architectural style of your property. A superior deck should begin with the selection of a natural stone to provide years of exceptional durability as well as sophistication. With so many options to choose from, begin your search by learning a bit about a variety of natural stone types.

Bluestone

The blue and gray shades of bluestone can be installed in any of three different textures to match your design style. This material is versatile enough to feature a non-uniform texture, smooth honed finish, or a thermal uniform texture. It partners exceptionally in yards that are surrounded by natural greenery.

Coral Stone

If your taste desires true uniqueness, the features of coral stone are sure to exceed your design expectations. It consists of a mixture containing fossilized coral and shell, limestone, and sand to create a very distinct looking material. Not only is it beautiful, it does not absorb significant heat or weaken from exposure to sale or chemicals.

Flagstone

Earthy neutral tones of flagstone material feature a naturally family-friendly, non-slip surface. It looks great in an outdoor pool setting because the rich brown textures are rugged and durable.

Granite

When it comes to resisting the elements, the hardness of granite is capable of withstanding years of exposure. It’s a great investment in any outdoor design because granite looks elegant without being too fragile to enjoy.

Limestone

Standing up against freezing, rain, and heat is one characteristic of limestone that makes it a very popular outdoor material. It is going to look bright and beautiful many years after installation, even if your local climate includes frequent and extreme weather changes.

Travertine

An absorbent outdoor deck is ideal for safety, especially if you have small children running around. Travertine deck materials come in many neutral tones that stay cool to the touch and look luxurious alongside a fresh blue pool of water.

Sandstone

Light red or brown quartz creates the perfect companion color for use around any pool style. The even tones make it easy to match with other pieces of sandstone so that you do not end up with noticeably mismatched areas.

Slate

Deeper shades and unique colors of slate create a varied range of visual options. It’s a long-lasting deck option that suits more traditional spaces as well as a more natural or rustic setting. Builders recommend slate for large projects because it is durable, yet easy to customize and install.

Our designers are excited to help you find the perfect deck material to surround your pool. We feature many different natural stone options in our showroom to match your style with a unique texture and color. Reach out through the contact form so that we can give you a personal tour of our facility.

With So Many Eye Catching Granite Countertop Colors, Which Do You Choose?

With So Many Eye Catching Granite Countertop

Every year more and more homeowners are discovering the benefits of granite countertops in their kitchens and baths. This surface is available in a variety of colors, including white, black, brown, beige, blue and red. With so many options, it is a suitable option for any number of kitchen designs.These tips can help you choose the right color so that you will be happy with your granite countertop for many years to come.

Modern Look With Dark Granite

If you are looking for a modern look in your kitchen, you may prefer to choose a dark granite color. Dark granite pairs well with a contemporary-themed kitchen and is eye-catching when used with white cabinets. The surface is rather eye-catching when it is used in a kitchen that has stark white cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

Bold accents, like bright colored bowls on a kitchen island or an orange candles would also work nicely in such kitchens. Adding stainless steel appliances will make your kitchen even more eye catching.

In the Kitchen. Granite Countertop, Sink,

A Classic Look with White Granite

White granite countertops are classic and timeless, giving your kitchen or bath a luxurious yet comfortable look. If your kitchen or bath is small, white countertops will make the room feel open and airy, making your friends and family feel welcome.

White granite works well with dark cabinetry, lightening up the room and eliminating the feeling of stuffiness that dark cabinets can often create. To hide stains from cooking or beauty products, which can occur during normal wear and tear, consider a white granite countertop with a pattern .

White kitchen with white granite tops, island and hanging pot rack

Timeless Neutral Granite

Neutral colors in granite are perfect if you are seeking a subtle yet versatile look for your kitchen or bath. Neutral colors are elegant and allow you to accessorize with a wide variety of colors. Neutral granite is one of the most popular colors as it works with virtually every style of kitchen or bath, whether you are seeking a modern or a classic look.

Neutral colors work well with wooden cabinets and subdued wall colors as well as in rustic rooms with wooden floors and pedestal or country sinks. Like white granite, it may be advisable to choose a neutral granite with a pattern to help hide any marks that can occur during normal use, such as food spills, scratches or beauty product marks.

Timeless Neutral Granite

Choosing the right color granite is important as granite can last forever. Complete our easy contact form for more information on choosing the perfect granite color for your kitchen or bath.

How To Choose The Perfect Edge Profile For Your Countertop

How To Choose The Perfect Edge Profile For Your Countertop

Adding granite countertops to any remodel project is not as simple as picking a natural stone slab and having it professionally installed. Choosing the edge profile is an important decision that deserves more consideration that choosing the best looking option. A smooth edge is more durable than projected corners, but it may not be worth sacrificing the silhouette that you truly desire for strength. Get to know the basics of each option so that you can make an educated decision based on which edge profile suits both your style and needs.

  • Classic Ogee – A very classic look that is more ornate than a smooth edge, typically featuring a dramatic curve. The appearance of a clean, rounded silhouette is perfect for adding a focal point to an otherwise standard kitchen island.
  • Basic Bullnose – Sleek, rounded edges at the top and bottom edge are a very popular edge option. It is ideal for use in slabs that extend beyond the edge of the cabinet or surrounding an island.
  • Triple Bullnose – Featuring a more regal appearance, the waterfall edge features a look of stacked bullnose edges. This style is a great highlight to a small space, but it does require more complex cleaning in the details.
  • Polished Standard – A squared shape is one of the most popular for thicker pieces of engineered stone because it is elegant, yet easy to maintain. With a common application as kitchen countertops, is incredibly durable as the edges are perfectly smooth and flat without any ornate details.
  • Half-bullnose – The top of this edge is rounded the same as a standard bullnose design, but the bottom is squared. Homeowners prefer this selection near sinks because the square bottom would prevent any water from making contact with the cabinetry.
  • Double Bevel – A specialized cut that emphasizes the thickness and beauty of the natural stone slab with an angular cut edge. This premium selection is generally created by layering two pieces together for enhanced visual interest.
  • Dupont Apron – This custom design option appears similar to the classic ogee placed atop a classic edge, featuring a cove-like curving. It is popular for use with granite, but homeowners also use it frequently for bathroom marble applications.
  • Dupont Bullnose – An ornamental version of the bullnose is comparable to the waterfall appearance of a triple bullnose. The major difference is that the edge appears similar to a staircase for a stylized take on the classic design.

Call to set up an appointment so that our experts can help you decide on the best edge to complete your natural or engineered stone countertop. It’s important to feel satisfied when renovating a kitchen or bathroom in a style that reflects your own.

How to Clean Granite Countertops

How to Clean Granite Countertops

Any granite owner understands that some products should not be used to clean the surface. Although it is quite strong and resilient under most conditions, some common household chemicals are simply too harsh. Detergents and ammonia can cause the appearance to dull, but acidic cleaners actually eat away at the surface. The only way to keep your granite looking great and free from damage is to learn the proper technique for cleaning with safe products.

Routine Clean

It is recommended to wipe down the surface as often as needed with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use fresh water to rinse until all soap is removed to prevent the residue from leaving a dull appearance. Never use any citrus-based cleaners as they are too harsh for use on granite. Isopropyl alcohol, baking soda, and water can also be used safely to disinfect and sanitize the surface if needed. A professional cleanser should be used on occasion to restore shine to the countertop.

Items You Will Need
Stone Care Products

Items You Will Need

  • Soft, non-abrasive sponge
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Bowl of warm water
  • Bowl of clean rinsing water
  • DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional KlenzAll™ Cleaner or Revitalizer Granite Cleaner

Deep Clean – Best Cleaner For Granite Countertops

Dirt, oil, grease, and other stubborn substances require the help of professional products. We recommend mixing warm water with DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional KlenzAll™ Cleaner or Revitalizer Granite Cleaner. The concentrated solution should be prepared with 2-4 parts water in a large bowl, unless it is a ready-to-use product. Apply the mixture to the granite surface and rub gently with the cloth or sponge until the debris has lifted. Completely rinse the product from the surface with clean water and dry with the microfiber cloth.

Additional Tips  (how often to seal granite)

  • Every 2 years, it is recommended to have the granite surface resealed with a high-quality professional product. DuPont™ StoneTech® Professional Bulletproof® Sealer and Natural Stone Countertop Sealer are highly recommended products that are easy to use.
  • Avoid acidic cleaners as much as possible because they weaken sealant and leave the surface vulnerable to damage. Lemon, lime, vinegar, bleach, and ammonia are among common household products that should never be used on granite.
  • Test the seal of countertops by placing a drop of water on the surface. A strong seal will cause the water to bead up, but resealing is necessary if it soaks into the granite within a few minutes.
  • Check out the Dupont Stone Care Guide for more tips!

Follow these tips for worry free maintenance and cleaning of your granite countertops. For more information give us a call or simply stop by our showroom.

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Kid Friendly Countertops

Kid Friendly Countertops

Families that want to install brand new countertops in the bathroom or kitchen have a lot to consider if there are children in the house. A simply art project or accidental juice spill can cause major surface damage if the material is unable to handle such exposure. Rather than strictly limit activities on a fragile surface, choose a countertop material that can withstand the normal wear and tear of your family.

Granite Countertops Perfect for Kids

Granite Countertops Perfect for KidsIt is tough to commit to an expensive countertop with kids in the house exposing them to potential damage. Teenagers tend to treat their bathroom counters with little regard as they expose them to the heat of hair styling tools, nail polish, cosmetics, and facial cleansers on a regular basis. With a proper sealing treatment, stains, heat, and household chemicals no longer pose a threat to granite surfaces. Parents can feel confident in their countertop investment knowing that dropping a heavy glass or spilling a cup of juice is not going to cause any real damage.

Marble Countertops the Imperfectly Perfect Solution

Marble Countertops the Imperfectly Perfect SolutionCarrara is on the lower expense side of marble, but it comes at the risk of staining and scratches. It’s not recommended for homes with small children because it is highly porous and can scratch easily. However, parents that do not mind a little added character could love the imperfections accumulated over years of owning. Proper sealing and polishing marble every couple of years is a great way to prevent stains in the soft, porous surface as much as possible. Keep in mind that etching is almost unavoidable with this type of countertop and it is smart to use a cutting board anytime food is prepared.

Engineered Stone the Child Proof Option

Engineered Stone the Child Proof OptionPerhaps the best choice in countertop surfaces in homes with children is engineered stone. This material is nonporous and so durable that scratches and chips from heavy wear is a rare occurrence. Various colors and textures can mimic the appearance of other countertops with the advantage of avoiding vulnerability in daily use. Maintenance is as simple as wiping down with a mild soap and warm water, and it does not have to be resealed at any point after the installation.

Feel free to give us a call if you would like to compare the advantages and prices of our kid-friendly countertop options. We look forward to finding a solution that matches the demands of your home decor, budget, and lifestyle.

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Granite vs Marble Countertops

Granite vs Marble Countertops

The similarity between marble and granite is undeniable, which can make it a difficult decision for a homeowner in the market for new countertops. Marble is more commonly used in bathrooms than kitchens simply because it is less durable than granite. On the other hand, there is so much more to consider than the durability alone, especially for people that may find other factors more important. Compare all of the differences and similarities to help make an educated decision about your countertop surface.

Appearance

Granite is so popular because it has a natural look that looks great in traditional and modern style homes. A high-end home can benefit from the elegance and luxury of sleek marble. People that appreciate the veining of marble may also look to the appeal of a wide array of patterns and colors available in granite. Determining which stone is more attractive in appearance is truly up to personal taste of the buyer.

Properties

Both options are notably porous, especially without the protection of a sealant preventing stains from seeping in. Marble is a bit softer and more susceptible to accumulating damage and stains, especially if exposed to heat or acidic substances. Granite is more durable and does not dull over time, especially with the use of polish and sealant as maintenance. Marble is going to gradually dull over time, even with the use of maintenance products, and the process is irreversible.

Applications

Although marble has a unique look, it is usually not suitable for use in high traffic areas like a kitchen. In this type of area, the homeowner must be able to appreciate gradual appearance changes or willing to perform constant maintenance. It is typically used as a bathroom floor, vanity, shower walls, or a tub deck because this area is easier to maintain with only light use. Granite is more versatile because it is durable enough to handle high traffic with a floor or kitchen countertop application.

Maintenance

Sealants are necessary, whether using granite or marble, especially if the stone is lighter in color. Spills should always be cleaned immediately to prevent stains and etching on the surfaces as much as possible. It is recommended to have granite resealed every 2 years, but marble typically needs resealing every 6 months.

Stain Removal

Deep damage may cause a permanent and irreversible change to the surface of either stone countertop. Marble is almost completely stain-resistant if it has been properly coated with sealing polish. Etching that causes visible corrosion can be repaired with some products, but it is a very involving process. Granite is non-absorbent and resistant to etching so most stains can be easily removed with a surface cleaner.

We are happy to help you compare the differences of our stone countertops so that you feel confident making a long-term decision that suits your home. Give us a call today, stop by our showroom, or fill out the contact form.

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The Truth about Granite and Radon

Chavez kitchen

Radon is a chemical gas that is found in soil, rocks, the sun’s rays, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. It’s pretty much all around us all the time, threatening our bodies with harmful levels of exposure. The biggest contributor to indoor radon comes naturally from the soil beneath and surrounding homes. It raises concerns when considering the origin of granite because it seems that emissions and direct contact would be an obvious hazard. With a little education, you’ll feel at ease understanding the truth about household granite and the safety of your loved ones.

Where Does Radon Come From?

The undetectable, radioactive gas is naturally present throughout our environment and in most homes to some degree. Unfortunately, people that do not understand the risk typically fail to have adequate indoor air quality testing that would alert of dangerous levels. It’s emitted from the soil layer and is believed to be present in natural stones, such as granite. When it’s outside in the environment, exposure is so low that it doesn’t cause any harm. In fact, the Marble Institute of America states “There are many sources of radiation in a typical home. Common items such as concrete blocks, televisions, smoke detectors — and even Brazil nuts, bananas and potatoes release measureable levels of radiation. The fact is, radiation and radon levels from other sources in the home are far more significant than what may be measured from a granite countertops. Consumer and industry safety are paramount issues for the stone industry, and numerous studies have been conducted to verify the safety of granite in the home.”

Is my Granite Countertop Safe?

Respected scientists conducted several conclusive tests on household granite countertops to determine the presence of radon. The absolute highest sample proved to have acceptable radon levels as specified by EPA guidelines. It is safe to allow your family to use the granite countertops for cooking and enjoying meals the same as any other sanitary surface. If a home does contain a considerable level of radon, it is primarily caused emission from ground soil. If there are concerns with indoor air quality, it is the best solution to have radon testing done, and then complete any necessary home improvements.

Radiation in Granite is not Dangerous

Installing natural stone inside the home does not bring in a considerable amount of radioactive material, and there is no reason to feel concern over using your existing countertops for any reason. Dangerous elements do not transfer to foods prepared on the surface, and your family is not at risk from simply touching it. The EPA states “Since granite is generally not very porous, less radon is likely to escape from it than from a more porous stone such as sandstone. It’s important to know that radon originating in the soil beneath homes is a more common problem and a far larger public health risk than radon from granite building materials. Also, any radon from granite countertops in kitchens or bathrooms is likely to be diluted in the typical home since those rooms are usually well ventilated.”

For more information about Granite and Radon please view the following resource:

Download Natural Stone Countertops and Radon