When the matter of choosing the most suitable material for kitchen or bathroom countertops is discussed, Granite is the homeowners’ pick. Due to the wide range of features granite offers such as heat resistance and scratch resistance, granite can be used to construct functional platforms for preparing meals without worrying about damaging the countertops. Another reason for the high demand for Granite is its attractive outlook and the versatile range of designs available to create a contemporary style statement.
Although granite is easy to maintain material as a countertop or bathroom slab, flooring material, and backsplashes, the ultimate game-changer is its final finish and texture. Just like other natural stones, granite also comes in different polishes and textures. The right type ultimately determines the ease of maintenance.
The two common types of granite are Polished and Honed granite. To choose the right one for your home, it is necessary to know the difference between the two finishes.
The following article caters to the detailed differences between Polished and Honed Granite:
What Is The Main Difference Between Polished And Honed Granite?
The final outlook and finish of granite are the results of the end process. In the case of granite, the rough stone slab is subjected to a variety of processes to come up with the desired finish. The first step makes the slab pass through several polishing wheels. These wheels are gripped with abrasive pads which are coarse and apply heavy pressure to the stones and resulting in grinding them.
Honed Granite:
When the manufacturing process is halted at the matte outlook of granite without reaching the shiny finish, then honed granite is achieved.
Polished Granite:
On the other hand, polished granite is manufactured as a result of continuous buffing by the polishing pads to get a reflective and shiny appearance.
Distinguishing Factors Between Polished And Honed Granite:
Appearance and Finish:
The most important factor that determines the final look of the area is the appearance of the stones used. In the case of granite, there are innumerable designs and themes that can be created just based on the appearance and finish of the stone.
Polished Granite:
Polished Granite is a timeless type of granite finish that gives a shiny and ever-lively look. Due to the buffing by polishing pads, this type remains glowy and reflects light to create an appealing look. Polished Granite is used by people who love to adorn their kitchens in a modern and chic look that never goes out of style.
This Polished surface allows easy care and makes the stones scratch-free. If you want to install countertops or slabs that remain forever in trend then there can not be a better option than polished granite stones.
The mirror-like finish on the top makes the inside patterns and hues seem vibrant and appealing. Thus, if you want the patterns and the intricate designs of countertops or slabs to be vibrant and glowy, then go for polished granite without a second thought.
Honed Granite:
Honed granite has a relatively subtle and matte finish and lacks the light reflective property of polished granite. Due to the less refined finish, it lacks shine and that is why the underlying patterns or colors are not as visible as in polished granite. Honed Granite stones are commonly opted for by people who want a comfy and tranquilizing feel in their homes.
As the colors inside honed granite are not apparent due to the matte finish, a color enhancer can be used on the top. This increases the richness of the overall look and is a preferable option for homeowners to their counterparts.
Maintenance And Longevity:
Another attribute to look into is the type of stone for countertops, slabs, flooring material, etc. Is easy to maintain the material and its strength. Irrespective of the type of finish or texture, the strength is not changed by the matte or glossy finish. However, it is essential to look for the feasibility to maintain the chosen material in order to meet your preferences and requirements.
Polished Granite:
Polished granite has an even and seamless surface that makes it the easiest material to clean. The surface of polished granite is not porous hence no moisture can seep inside and neither bacteria can reside inside the pores. That is why polished granite is an excellent material for kitchen countertops as well as flooring material for areas that remain crowded. Polished Granite can withstand stains and friction while maintaining its original condition. It is usually hassle-free to clean and maintain polished granite surfaces. Owing to the remarkable hardwearing quality of polished granite, it is easy to maintain and lasts a lifetime as well as new. As the surfaces are not porous at all so there is rarely a need to add sealant to cover the vacant areas.
Honed Granite:
Honed granite, due to its porous surface, is susceptible to getting etched when any acidic material or liquid is spilled. The uneven and grainy texture of honed granite makes it a functional anti-slip flooring material that enhances foot grip. But at the same time, if honed granite is used in the kitchen as a flooring material or even countertops, there are chances of it getting harmed as the moisture seeps in. It requires more maintenance as compared to Polished granite. However, many homeowners prefer the outlook of honed granite for backsplashes and countertop material so it is no less popular than polished granite.
Selling Cost:
The selling price of granite and all other natural stones depends upon various factors including availability, uniqueness of pattern and design, and the processing involved.
Polished Granite:
As polished granite involves high-end finishing and requires more its time than honed counterparts. Polished granites are considered to be super expensive. But interestingly this is not the case!
The Polished granite, due to high demand, is easily available as it is extensively manufactured. So it is budget-friendly and can be found commonly. Thus, despite the complicated and time-consuming process of polished granite manufacturing, it is not expensive at all.
Honed Granite:
Contrary to polished granite, honed granite involves far less polishing and the rough texture does not take long to be achieved. But these stones are costly due to their rarity and less-common availability in the market. Although the manufacturing process of honed granite is way simpler as compared to polished granite, a custom order could be more costly.
Conclusion:
Polished Vs Honed Granite is a topic of unending discussion. In conclusion to the comparison made above it can be said that both types of granite finishes come with their advantage and disadvantages. The right one for you is the one that covers all your requirements and is functional according to your needs.
If you plan to choose between polished or honed granite for home renovations, keep in mind the longevity, ease of maintenance, and durability of the stone you are picking. You must consult an interior designer before choosing the right type of granite according to your theme and the overall ambiance. If you want to learn more about granite and other natural stones we have a lot on our website for you. Check out now and get some valuable information!
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