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Missoula
(406)
541-ROCK (7625)
Fax (406) 541-7639
Kalispell
(406)
756-ROCK (7625)
Fax (406) 756-7627
Post
Falls, Idaho
(208)
777-8900
Fax (208) 777-8907
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SOLID SURFACE VS GRANITE ON KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS
Many
myths and rumors surface every now and again
concerning granite and particularly granite
countertops. In the November 15, 2001 issue of STONE
magazine, its Technical Editor, Fred Hueston decided
to take the bull by the horns.
We quote from his introduction:
'There are many rumors circulating about the use of
granite in our industry and many of them are simply
untrue. Before I sat down to write this article I
spent several hours on the Internet searching for
information. I could not believe what I found. There
are dozens of websites, which are distributing false
information about the properties of granite.
The author lists a large number of alleged
advantages claimed by the manufacturers of solid
surfaces, which are generally a mixture of real stone
in a matrix or polyester or acrylic resins, before
going on to dispel eight major myths. The ones he
addresses are:
- Granite can harbor harmful bacteria! He
points out that this is simply untrue and verified
this fact with both the Center for Disease Control
and The National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health who found no evidence of it.
- Granite contains harmful radon gases! We
have reported on this issue at length in previous
Granite Bulletins. This article includes
substantive evidence showing that this is untrue and
points out … 'In terms of building materials, radon
emissions from concrete, cement and gypsum could be
of greater concern.'
- Granite cannot be repaired once it is
scratched! The author points out that most
granite surfaces are almost impossible to scratch
and, should the unlikely happen, there are a number
of companies that sell equipment and abrasives for
resurfacing and polishing granite.
- Solid Surfaces will not stain and granite
will! Another myth, particularly with natural
stone in both surfaces. Some granite needs to be
sealed to eliminate staining – a simple, infrequent
process.
- There are no granite sinks available!
Also untrue. He points out that there are several
manufacturers and that granite sinks add a very
unique and elegant effect in a kitchen or bathroom.
- Solid surfaces will not burn or be affected
by heat! This is true of granite, but …
manufacturers of solid surfaces claim heat
resistance of up to 212 degrees F, while the average
oven goes up to 400 degrees F.
- Granite countertops cannot be made seamless!
True only to an extent. Modern methods allow
extremely thin and barely noticeable seaming in
granite; while granite is also available in such
large slabs it eliminates seaming problems.
- Granite is difficult to clean! Totally
untrue, as anyone who works on a granite countertop
knows full well.
In the article, Fred Hueston unequivocally states
the advantages of granite as being:
- Durable scratch-resistant surface
- Endless patterns and colors
- Each piece unique
- Lasting value – granite will last forever
- Will not burn when hot pots are set on it
- Stains can be removed
- Harbors no bacteria or radon
- Can be repaired if ever scratched
- Granite sinks are available
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