Granite countertops are much sought after materials for homeowners and designers due to their durability, beauty, and character. The finish of a stone surface determines its appearance and usability. The right finish also brings out the natural look of the stone and complements the style and level of maintenance needed. Here are five finishes for natural stone countertops:
Polished Finish
A polished finish is a preferred choice for granite countertops because of its shine and ability to enhance the color differences of the stone. The finishing process involves grinding the stone surface to a high-gloss level. This enhances its natural veining and patterns.
Polished finish is useful in increasing the brightness of a room as it has the tendency to reflect light. This makes it suitable for rooms such as the kitchen and the bathroom that may have limited natural light. The smooth surface is also non-porous and does not absorb moisture. These characteristics make it easy to clean and maintain. You can clean the countertop with a damp cloth to maintain its shine.
Honed Finish
A honed finish is a non-glossy finish that is produced by grinding the stone to a smooth, flat surface. The grinding technique gives a softer and muted appearance, making it ideal for those who like a more subtle look. Honed finishes can be suitable for natural stones with light colors. This is because it minimizes the visibility of etching and scratches.
Honed countertops give off a homely feel and are perfect for casual, relaxed, and contemporary designs. It is suitable for spaces with lots of light, as the surface can help reduce glares. The surface also offers some amount of traction that can be useful in areas that are more prone to accidents, such as spilling of foods and drinks. Sealing should be done periodically. It helps make sure that the stone remains resistant to stains while retaining its polished look.
Leathered Finish
A leathered finish provides a sophisticated, slightly textured surface with a soft sheen. This finish is achieved by brushing the surface of the stone to enhance its texture while maintaining a certain level of smoothness. The final appearance has a tactical feel, which enhances the stone’s natural variations.
Leathered finishes can be desirable for those who want to create an interesting or sophisticated atmosphere in their home. Its slightly textured surface makes it easy to conceal fingerprints, water spots, and smudges. The surface retains the stone’s natural color and patterns while adding a touch of rustic elegance.
Flamed Finish
A flamed finish is obtained by heating the stone surface until the minerals expand and burst to give the surface a rough texture. This process is used mainly for granite and other hard stones. The process creates a slip-resistant surface with a rough texture. Flamed finishes can be ideal for outdoor use, such as patios and barbeque countertops. This is because it offers a good grip and is also resistant to the elements. In interior spaces, a flamed finish gives a natural look and feel and is ideal for use in rustic or industrial interior design.
Brushed Finish
A brushed finish gives the stone a worn, antique look. This look is attained by running a series of brushes over the stone surface to give it a slightly rough but even texture. This process polishes the natural stone to smooth the surface but retains the natural look and feel. Brushing makes the finish suitable for use in cozy or elegant interior designs. Brushed finishes are most suitable for environments that are intended to have a relaxed, aged, or natural ambience. The surface is not too smooth but not too coarse either, maintaining a good balance between refinement and ruggedness.
Choose Expertly Crafted Granite Countertops
The choice of the finish for a natural stone countertop depends on the intended use, maintenance preferences, and general aesthetic vision. Every finishing method improves the stone in terms of its look and touch. A good company offers quality craftsmanship, a wide selection, and professional fitting. If you want to add beauty to your home using granite countertops, hire professionals to confirm that you get a product of the highest standards. Contact professionals today to discuss different high-quality finishes.
