Leathered Granite: Pros and Cons
Popular in both residential and commercial kitchens, leathered granite is a finish that adds texture to a stone that's naturally polished. Honed — Instead of being polished, these stones are honed for a smooth, matte finish; very commonly seen on marble and granite surfaces. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the good and the bad aspects of leathered granite to help you figure out if this is or is not the right option for your endeavors.
Pros of Leathered Granite
Greater Aesthetic Appeal: The leathering process enhances the colors and patterns that are naturally found within the granite, displaying the inherent features of the stone in a bolder, more visually appealing manner. This matte surface differs in the way that it reflects light compared to polished surfaces and can show off the color richness and depth of the stone.
Less Fingerprints and Smudges: One of the main benefits listed in most limestone reviews is the fact that leathered finish does not highlight fingerprints, water spots and are to a greater degree, smudges like polished counterpart. Which makes it perfect for commercial kitchens and high-use spaces.
Leathered granite also features a textured surface which provides tactile characteristics that might not otherwise exist with other stone surface types. Its texture has another benefit, making countertop less slippery especially in kitchens.
Durability & Maintenance: Leathered granite has the same inherent durability as granite itself. This material is resistant to scratches and can also withstand heat, an important factor in any kitchen. A textured surface can help to mask any minor blemishes or scratches since they will sit deeper within the texture than in the case of polished surfaces.
Cons of Leathered Granite
Cleaning Challenges: Leathered granite presents an uneven surface, due to its nature of being worked, which can make cleaning it a bit of a challenge, when compared to polished granite. The diples and grooves might be where crumbs and dust settle which might need some extra effort to clean properly.
Limited Color: Leathering color enhances the stone's natural color overall may make a darker richer version of the color, but the color may lack the "depth" that a polished all the way finish would impart. This can be a con for those that like the shine and reflective nature that typical granite has.
Availability and Selection : Leathered granite is not a common finish like polished or honed granite and the variety of colors and designs may not be as readily available. This would restrict homeowners and designers to certain design possibilities.
On an average, leathering granite is more laborious as granite polish but can be costly. Because of the specialty texture, the material is likely to be more costly as well as the installation and it will require someone to install that knows what they are doing.
Leathered Granite – Is It Right For You?
Selecting the pros and cons of leathered granite means scanning your your lifestyle, budget, along with your personal taste. LEATHERED GRANITE If you appreciate a counter surface that is fingerprint resistant but still offers a fresh texture, it might be worth looking into leathered granite. On another note, due to its ease in cleaning and the various colors that it comes in this could be a good choice for youif you would prioritize ease of cleaning and a variety of color options.
In summary, leathered granite is ideal for those who seek an organic look and are willing to put in the extra effort to keep the textured surface clean. This finish provides a beautiful and useful accompaniment to kitchens, baths, and many other areas where the combination of taste and toughness are most important.