Are polished or honed granite countertops the best choice for your home? Consider the following factors.
There are many choices to make once you’ve decided to add granite countertops to your home. These details include the color of the granite, its edges, and its finish. The finish of the granite can significantly influence the overall appearance of your kitchen or bathroom. When selecting a finish, you can choose either polished or honed. If you want to understand the differences between these two options, read on for more details on polished and honed granite countertops.
The Characteristics of Polished Granite
Polished granite has a highly reflective surface that displays the vibrancy of the granite colors. A polished finish is smooth and enhances the stone’s color, creating a glossy shine from the natural reflection of the stone’s crystals.
Polished granite is coated with a protectant that makes the granite less susceptible to stains. This makes polished granite countertops popular for kitchens and bathrooms or other high-use rooms. However, because the polished stone is so smooth, it is not recommended for flooring in high-traffic areas as it is slippery when wet.
The Characteristics of Honed Granite
With honed granite countertops, the polishing process ends before buffing. This results in a matte or low-gloss sheen that lacks the highly reflective look of traditional polished granite. The softer, honed look is popular with homeowners who prefer a casual or aged look.
Honed granite is more resistant to scratches, and, unlike polished countertops, any scratches that do occur are less visible. However, honed granite is more susceptible to stains, so cleaning up spills quickly is crucial. Because honed granite countertops are matte, when the surface gets wet, it is less slippery than polished counters. This means that honed granite is a better option for flooring.
Which Is Best For Your Home?
Besides considering your budget, two primary factors will ultimately influence your decision to use honed or polished granite: use and design.
If your countertop is in a high-traffic area, a polished surface will work best as it requires less maintenance. Someone with a large family who needs to use a sturdy workspace will benefit from this surface. However, if you can commit to more diligent care, honed granite can work well for you.
Then, you must consider your design preferences. Do you want the sleek, high-gloss sophistication of polished granite? Or do you want the more natural, subtle look of honed granite? Consider which fits best with your existing home design. No matter which style of granite countertop you select, you can guarantee a luxurious finish and style for your home.
QUESTIONS ABOUT CUSTOM STONE FABRICATION?
If you have questions regarding the benefit of natural stone in homes or businesses, Rock Tops Fabrication is here to answer them. Our trained professionals are here to make sure that your new kitchen or bathroom is designed and finished in exactly the way you want it. We service Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Feel free to give us a call at 410-363-4257. For more information, tips, and tricks, and to see what we have been up to, be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest, and Houzz.