How do granite countertops fit into “Green Building”?
That’s a good question because there is a huge movement for “Green Building” going on in this country right now. Let’s start by first defining what “Green Building” is. “The Green Building Resource Guide defines green building materials and products as having at least one of the following characteristics: nontoxic; recycled content; resource efficient; long life cycle; or, environmentally conscious.” 1 Basically green building is a way to use our resources efficiently, while providing healthier living environments and work spaces.
Building and remodeling with granite countertops is literally a natural choice. Granite is quarried from the earth’s crust and is considered the oldest building material. Granite countertops not only have natural beauty and characteristics, but will last more than a lifetime. Once installed, they become a permanent fixture and will add elegance and attractiveness to any home. Granite countertops are fabricated with diamond bit tools and equipment that is water-fed. Scrap pieces are generally crushed and recycled to be used again in building roads. Granite countertops also require little maintenance and care is as easy as washing with hot, soapy water and a washcloth. So to answer your question, because granite countertops are non-toxic and last more than a lifetime, they fit quite well in a “green building”.
Truth In Advertising-Buyer Beware
I recently read an article in a building industry publication that focused on a particular business that specialized in installing one of the engineered stones available on the market today. Actually it was a paid advertisement, but did not state that. It looked like an article complete with photo’s, but listed no author. This type of advertising has become very popular these days for businesses to attempt to toot their own horn without naming sources or putting their own name on it. The advertisement basically focused on how great they were and how great the engineered stone they represent is. It also led the reader to believe that granite stains and chips easily and uses sealers that are defective and cause scratching. I was shocked and frankly appalled that a publication would allow a business to print such garbage. What ever happened to checking your sources and truth in advertising?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Does granite scratch easily?
A. No. Granite is one of the hardest materials available. It is very difficult to scratch granite. Everyday use of knives will not scratch your countertops. Cutting directly on your granite will however, dull your knives.
Q. Can hot pots and pans be set on granite?
A. Yes. Granite is heat resistant for everyday kitchen needs. Setting hot pots and bake-ware on your granite countertops will not burn them.
Q. Does granite harbor bacteria?
A. The Center for Disease Control, CDC, does not have any records of people becoming sick from bacteria in granite. Both the food industry and medical industry continue to use granite in many various applications.
Q. Will mold/mildew grow on my granite?
A. Mold and mildew growth is purely a cleanliness issue. Your granite countertops should be cleaned on a regular basis, like any other countertop.
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Comparison Corner:
When it comes to countertops, if you’re looking for quality and durability…nothing stacks up to granite. Granite countertops offer a unique, natural look and since granite was formed with the earth’s crust, it is one of the hardest materials available today.
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Buyer Beware...
In the past year or so, we have been fielding many questions about the durability of granite compared with engineered stone, (which we commonly refer to as “The Fake Stuff”). This is largely due to the fact that certain engineered stone manufacturers have been spreading lies and myths about granite through various advertising means.
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Education-A Necessity When Selling Natural Stone
As the demand for natural stone products continues to grow, the need for customer education becomes a necessity. Many customers believe that natural stone surfaces have many of the same characteristics, as man-made products such as Corian® or laminate materials. Some people also tend to believe that they behave in the same way. This is usually not the case. As a fabricator, we hear many misconceptions regarding granite and other natural stones.
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Education Is Key When Selling Natural Countertops
One of the most appealing features of granite is its natural beauty. It is one of those products that really sells itself. Many people are attracted to the product because of its beauty, durability, and low maintenance features. It is however, important when selling granite to educate customers on the natural characteristics of stone. It is important to be able to differentiate between a natural product and a man-made product.
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Natural Surfaces—Which One Is Right For You?
Natural countertops are at the top of the list when it comes to what’s hot in today’s homes. Granite, marble, slate, and limestone all offer a unique beauty provided by nature, but each one comes with its own set of qualities.
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Weigh Your Options When Choosing Natural Stone
While natural stone has become increasingly popular when building, it can bring a multitude of questions from the consumer. As a stone fabricator, we get asked many questions regarding the differences between various natural stone products.
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