Granite is one of the most popular natural stones used in today’s homes—and for good reason. It’s strong, beautiful, and works well in many spaces. Whether you’re building a new house or updating your kitchen, granite is a top choice for countertops, flooring, and even outdoor areas.

One of the best things about granite is that it comes in many colours, patterns, and finishes. The finish you choose can change how the stone looks and feels—and how it fits into your home design.

Let’s take a look at the three most popular granite finishes: polished, honed, and leathered.

Different Types Of Granite Finishes

Although there are other options, the honed, polished, and leathered finishes reign as the primary choices for granite, in this section, we’ll delve deeper into the specifics of each of these granite finish types.

Polished Granite

Polished granite stands out as the predominant choice, boasting a high-gloss, reflective surface that epitomizes the luxurious appeal of granite. This mirror-like brilliance not only enhances the elegance of the stone but also adds a sense of richness to any space it adorns. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, polished granite surfaces offer practical benefits as well. They are easier to maintain compared to other stone finishes, requiring less frequent resealing. This makes them an ideal option for busy and high-traffic areas. With its timeless appeal and ease of maintenance, polished granite remains a top choice for homeowners seeking both style and functionality.

Honed Granite

Granite that has undergone polishing, but not to the same degree as polished granite, is known as honing. As a result, honed granite has a surface that is more matte than glossy, as opposed to polished granite. Because the surfaces of honed granite appear more natural than those of other treatment choices, many homeowners have come to prefer them. Furthermore, because honed granite doesn’t have a shiny sheen, any flaws are better concealed on the surfaces.

On the downside, some believe that polished granite better exhibits the stone’s original colour and texture, whereas honed granite does not. Additionally, polished granite is more moisture resistant than honed granite, which is still moisture resistant.

Leathered Granite

Granite slabs with leathering provide a more textured look. Over the past several years, fashion has become more and more fashionable. The word “leathered granite” refers to the look of the granite, which will resemble leather. If you want your granite countertop to have a more rustic appearance, this finish is a great option.

Compared to honed granite, leathered granite will exhibit more depth. It will assist in concealing stains, scratches, smudges, and fingerprints while highlighting the stone’s inherent qualities.

The only drawback is that leathered granite might be more difficult to clean than polished or honed slabs. Nevertheless, despite the fact that these three are the greatest granite countertop finishes available, no finish is flawless.

Flamed Granite

A gritty granite polish that brings off the granite’s glistening crystals, a technique that involves torching the stone’s face and then cooling it with water to shock the minerals. This improves the crystal’s qualities. Typically, flooring and external applications require flamed panels. With this choice, additional weight is added since the stone veneer must be thicker to manage stress fractures brought on by the temperature shock.

Brushed Granite

A wire brush is used to produce a rough surface with a matte or satin finish to create a brushed look. This finish is ideal for homeowners who want their countertops to have a basic, modest design because of its delicate, natural appearance. Additionally, a brushed surface is excellent at disguising smudges and fingerprints.

Waterjet Granite

A method other than blazing that leaves the stone’s colour unaltered while creating a rough face. Unlike burning, which compromises the integrity of your panel, this finish uses a powerful water head to strike the face of the stone while preserving its aesthetic potential.

Conclusion

In conclusion, various granite finish types offer unique aesthetics and functionality, enhancing the beauty and usability of spaces. From smooth and sophisticated to rugged and textured appearances, each granite finish types contribute to the overall look and feel of granite surfaces. By understanding the different finishing techniques, considering your specific requirements, and maintaining the chosen finish properly, you can confidently select the ideal finish to complement your style and usage needs.