Many homeowners search for granite slabs in Denver when they need to install countertops or floors because granite is a strong and beautiful natural stone. You need to consider a few factors to ensure that you get the best slabs.
Many homeowners search for granite slabs in Denver when thinking of installing countertops or floors. This is because granite is a beautiful rock that comes in many colors and patterns. The natural igneous rock is also hard and resistant to different types of damages. Despite being igneous, it has very few pores that can be sealed.
But not all granites come out of the mines the same. Some slabs are of higher quality than others. You need to find the best possible option within your budget to ensure that your slabs last long and need only minimal maintenance.
Buy The First Slab You Like
No, we’re not saying that you should buy the first slab that you find on the shelf. You should look at different granite slabs in Denver to see what you like. But once you find something you like, don’t look any further. Check its quality and price before buying it.
Looking for more options after this point will only confuse you when you find more lovely samples. The sample may not be available later because shopkeepers are keen on selling out. If you want to check other samples, make sure that the shop holds them for you. Some do it for a fee while others do it for free.
Measure Thickness
Entry-level slabs are usually ⅜ inches and backed by plywood. Mid and high-grade granite slabs in Denver are usually ¾ inches or 1 inch thick, making them better at resisting damage, though it also makes them heavier.
Don’t Focus On Grades
Different shops have different criteria for grading natural stone tiles. Their grading system will not give you any clue on which option is the best. In many cases, an A-grade tile isn’t better than an F-grade slab. You need to focus on other aspects instead.
Check Porosity
As an igneous rock, granite has many pores on its surface. This can cause it to absorb stains and dirt. The fewer pores it has, the longer it will last and fewer sealants it will need. They make for good flooring supply in Denver because they need simple wiping for maintenance.
You can check a tile’s porosity by pouring some lemon juice over it. If it absorbs the juice fast, it’s very porous, else it has few pores.
Match Counter With Cabinetry
Kitchen cabinetry and countertops always go together. Whether you match countertops with the flooring supply in Denver or not, you must ensure that they match the cabinetry. It doesn’t mean that the slab, floor and cabin should be of the same color. They should just match each other well.
You should take a sample of your cabinets and floor with you to find a slab that matches them. Inversely, you can buy the slabs before the cabinets and floors to ensure that the match.
Go Seamless
Seamless countertops are costlier than those with seams because of how hard they are to install but are worth it because they last longer. The lack of seams makes it difficult for water to seep in and reduces the need for adhesives and sealants.
Avoid The Glittery Ones
You may find many slabs with glittery mica interspersed in them. They may look beautiful but cost more than the average slabs and aren’t as hardy. They may not be real granite but a stone called schist that’s often classified as such. You should avoid glittery slabs to find something that gives a good ROI.
Analyze Slabs Visually
You should check the slabs for dents, cracks, etc. Don’t ignore even minor defects because they may become major later and add to the maintenance needed. Even baby cracks can lead to countertops splitting in half during installation. So make sure that your slabs are defect-free.
Scratch Test Polish Quality
Check the polish quality by scratching the surface with something metallic. If it leaves a mark, then the polishing was not done properly and might not withstand daily use.
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