About
Granite
What is granite?
Granite is almost literally as old as the earth. Granite is formed from magma the liquid rock from the core of the earth. Granite is formed when the magma cools as it is pushed up to the surface of the earth forming a rock which has hardness and durability approaching that of diamond. Granite is an igneous rock which has a chemical composition similar to that of lava but is much harder because it was formed under high pressure deep within the earth. The granite we quarry has been brought to the surface of the earth by seismic and glacial activity over the eons moving granite formations upwards and uncovering the formations. Granite outcrops can be found on every continent.
Granite blocks ready for processing
Quarrying and fabrication.
Granite has been quarried as long ago as 4000 BC before even hard metals were available. Quarrying techniques have evolved slowly until in the 20th century industrial techniques have allowed much larger quantities of stone to be quarried cost effectively. Stone blocks are removed from the outcrop using low compression explosives. The blocks are taken to be processed where they are cut into slabs of the required thickness then finished using automatic equipment to the required finish. Much of this work requires diamond edged saws and the use of grinding slurry containing a metallic abrasive, these contribute considerably to the cost of processing the granite. However advances have allowed manufacturers in some cases to offer real granite tiles at a lower cost than some man made imitations.
Gang saw used for cutting granite blocks into slabs
Characteristics
Granite is the hardest stone used for building making it uniquely applicable to interior use. When polished its high gloss finish will endure in even harsh environments. Making granite ideal for counter tops and floors. The most popular size for granite tiles is 305x305x10mm. Tiles often have an arrised (bevel) edge. A wide range of colours is available with prices varying according to rarity and difficulty of extraction.
Internal and external use.
Most of the tiles we stock have a polished surface, this makes the best of the grain in the stone but can be slippery when wet. Polished tiles are ideal for internal use and can be used on floors, walls or counter tops. For external use we stock some tiles with a flamed finish. This finish involves heating and rapidly cooling the surface of the tiles causing crystals to break of giving a course surface ideal for external use.