Granite tile and slabs are both a decorative and practical choice, making your choice of granite both a stylish and smart one indeed! Due to its hardness, its resistance to heat and other forms of stress, as well as the versatility which is offered by granite tile, you are making an investment that will add value to your property and one which will be the source of a tremendous pride of ownership. The production of granite has been millions of years in the making, made by the greatest manufacturer there is - the earth itself. For a lasting durability designed by nature that is stone cold gorgeous too, granite may be the best idea you've ever had!
Granite Tile Do's and Don'ts
Here are a few things to think about when you are considering granite tile for your project:
DO
1. Consider the area where you intend to install granite tile. Make sure that factors such as moisture levels, foot traffic, and slip resistance are carefully considered. Consider what type of surface is the best - polished, honed, or brushed (AKA flamed) are popular varieties in granite tile, each better suited to certain areas than others. Polished granite is great for countertops and low traffic areas, but often becomes slippery when wet. Honed flooring is more all-purpose, but may be considered less decorative by some. Brushed or flamed granite tile is most commonly used outdoors
2. Read all warranty information before purchase
3. Look into hiring a flooring tile professional to help you as working with granite can be very strenuous, due to its weight particularly. When in doubt, it's always best to get experienced help
4. Inspect the whole batch before beginning an installation for possible breakage and any other issues, and consult your terms and conditions as to how to see about compensation, if any.
5. Expect color variations in your batch of granite tile. Remember, granite is a natural material. Use these natural color variations found in your batch to your advantage. Get as creative with your layout as you can.
6. Lay out all of your granite tiles in a dry run before applying mortar or other chosen adhesive agent.
7. Choose a sealant that best suits your choice in granite tile. Ask your sales rep or flooring professional about specific varieties and brand names.
8. Initiate a cleaning and maintenance regimen; choose the appropriate cleaners and polishes based on experienced advice in order to make sure your granite tile retains all of its natural beauty.
DON'T
1. Install granite tile on an uneven, dirty or wet subfloor.
2. Leave spills to sit on your granite tile flooring or countertops. It is important to avoid excessive moisture as this is what contributes to the wear of any building material. Also, liquids with an acid base are often culprits of stubborn stains.
3. Allow dirt and grit to remain on the surface of your granite tile. These elements can affect the finish over time and take away from the natural beauty of granite.
4. Use acid-based cleaners or other agents on your granite tile. This can be a major source of wear on your tile, cause stains to become permanent, and dull the finish as well. Avoid using any product your no sure about.
5. Forget to thoroughly rinse your granite tile once you've used a recommended cleaner, or forget to change dirty water or solution which you are using to clean the tile.
6. Use scouring powders, steel wool, or other abrasive materials to remove stains from your granite tile.
One of the best courses of action to take to ensure that granite tile is the right choice for flooring or countertop solution is to consult with the experts. This way, you are benefiting from years of experience, which will allow you to avoid costly mistakes. It will also help to make sure that your granite tile will be as attractive and long lasting as it is meant to be with you as its best ally!
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http://www.builddirect.com/Granite-Tile-Slabs/PSP_6946_c18.aspx
BuildDirect is a wholesale importer of granite slabs, with the best online pricing anywhere! Order online or call BuildDirect at 1 877 631 2845.
Buy Granite Countertops and Vanity Tops At Wholesale Pricing
http://www.builddirect.com/Countertops.aspx
BuildDirect supplies granite slab countertops and vanities in volume orders at wholesale pricing. Modular granite countertop kits for single kitchen installation are also available in a wide variety of colors. Order online, or call BuildDirect at 1 877 631 2845.
