Flooring plays a crucial role in shaping the overall look of a residence or workplace. It represents a one-time investment that enhances aesthetic value by covering the entire interior space. Understanding how to select the most suitable material for flooring designs from a diverse range of options is vital.
When considering factors such as lifestyle, quality, installation, finishing, and others, granite flooring emerges as one of the top choices. Granite is composed of various elements, including mica, silica, feldspar, and quartz, which contribute to adding a distinctive shine to the area. It is an exceptional material for flooring designs in homes and offices across various countries.
What is Granite?
Granite is an igneous rock that is solidified from molten material or melted to form stone. It is a siliceous sedimentary rock with a characteristically granular mineral composition, primarily made up of silica, aluminium, and potassium. As a result of granite’s constituents and cooling process, it has shading and patterns that resemble other natural stones.
Why Choose Granite Stone Flooring?
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones available, making it a highly durable option for flooring. Its scratch resistance and ability to handle heavy foot traffic make it particularly suitable for high-use areas like kitchens, hallways, and living rooms. Unlike other materials, granite can withstand exposure to heat, which is why it is also widely used in kitchens.
What sets granite apart from synthetic flooring options is its natural beauty. Each slab is unique, showcasing distinct veining, speckles, and colour variations created over millions of years. This makes every granite floor truly one of a kind.
Beyond aesthetics and durability, granite also adds long-term value to homes and commercial properties. It is a premium material that not only enhances the look of your interiors but also increases resale appeal. Choosing granite stone flooring is, therefore, an investment in both functionality and luxury.
The Other Side of the Coin: Disadvantages to Consider
High Cost of Material and Installation
One of the main concerns for many homeowners is the cost. Granite flooring is a premium material, and its price per square foot is considerably higher than options like ceramic tile, laminate, or even some hardwoods. In addition to the material cost, installation is more expensive. Granite slabs are heavy and need skilled professionals to cut, transport, and lay them with precision. This labour-intensive process adds significantly to the overall project cost, making granite flooring a substantial investment for any home.
Hardness and Comfort
Granite’s hardness makes it highly durable, but it can also pose challenges in terms of comfort. Standing or walking on granite for long periods can be tiring on the feet, legs, and back. Additionally, objects that fall on a granite floor are more likely to break compared to softer surfaces. This characteristic may concern families with young children or elderly members, or anyone who spends a lot of time standing in areas like the kitchen.
Cold Underfoot (Without Heating)
Its thermal conductivity is an advantage with underfloor heating; without it, granite can feel exceptionally cold underfoot, especially in cooler climates or during winter months. This can be a shock in the mornings or at night. While rugs can mitigate this in certain areas, it’s a factor to consider for overall comfort, particularly if you prefer a warm and cozy feel in your home.
Hardness and Comfort
While granite’s hardness contributes to its durability, it can also be a disadvantage in terms of comfort. Standing or walking on granite for extended periods can be tiring on the feet, legs, and back. Objects dropped on a granite floor are also much more likely to break compared to softer surfaces. This characteristic might be a concern for families with young children or elderly individuals, or for those who spend a lot of time standing in their kitchen.
Slipperiness When Wet
Polished granite, particularly when wet, can be very slippery. This creates a safety hazard, especially in locations such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. Although textured or honed surfaces may provide additional traction, a high-gloss polished finish necessitates greater vigilance. Implementing anti-slip treatments or using strategically positioned mats can be beneficial, but it remains a crucial safety issue, particularly in households with children or elderly individuals.
Demanding Installation Process
Installing granite flooring is not a DIY project for the faint of heart. It requires specialized tools, expertise, and significant physical strength. Cutting large, heavy slabs accurately, preparing the subfloor perfectly, and ensuring seamless installation demands professional experience. Improper installation can lead to cracks, uneven surfaces, and costly repairs down the line. This means factoring in the cost of professional installation and ensuring you hire reputable and experienced installers.
Types of Granite Flooring
There are some most popular types of granite flooring that you must check before the installation.
- Kashmir White Granite
- Absolute Black Granite
- Crystal Yellow Granite
- Rosy Pink Granite
- Black Galaxy Granite
- Platinum White Granite
- Tan Brown Granite
- Steel Grey Granite
- Silk Granite
- Ivory Beige Granite
- Black Forest Granite
- Indian Black Markino
- Flash Granite
- Alaska Red Granite
- Desert Gold Granite
- Bash Paradiso Granite
- Honey Brown Granite
Why is Granite Considered The Best Flooring?
Granite is the finest choice if you want a natural stone that will add a feeling of majestic elegance to your home for decades to come. While it is more expensive upfront than most other granite flooring options, it will pay for itself in terms of durability, thermal performance, aesthetics, and enhanced property value. Moreover, Granite floor tiles are ideal for pets because they can lie comfortably on the floor to stay cool and calm during the hot summer months.
This type of flooring is very hygienic because it does not gather bacteria or pet dander. As a result, you can rest assured that you will have a cooler house and a cleaner and allergy-free environment.
Conclusion
Granite flooring is suitable for use in wet areas such as the bathroom and kitchen. This type of flooring is ideal for both business and residential areas due to a number of characteristics. The stone comes in both a bright and a smooth finish. You can easily find the best granite colours for the living room or any other space. Granite countertops are both scratch and stain-resistant. So, look into all the possibilities accessible in the market and select the best one that best meets your needs.