choosing quality granite

You will have to ask your supplier some questions to choose quality granite tiles for your kitchen backsplash.

How was the granite quarried? Because it is such a hard material, quarrying granite can be an expensive and time-consuming process. Using explosives makes the work easier, but the force of the explosion can create tiny fault lines throughout the granite. These are often too small to be seen with the naked eye, but they can widen and create problems over time.

What solvents were used in cutting the stone? Kerosene and other petroleum-based byproducts are sometimes added to the coolant used when the stone is cut and shaped to make the work go a little faster and reduce processing costs. Afterward, the stone is washed to remove the chemical smell. It looks just the same as stone cut using only water as a coolant when it is viewed in the showroom, but it doesn’t wear as well. When the petroleum product comes in contact with the ferric content of the stone, rust begins to form. The marks will be visible sooner or later, often within a year.

How much variation is there in the dimensions of each tile? They should meet ASTM standards. All the tiles should have a uniform thickness, and the maker should calibrate them carefully. Each tile should should have precisely square corners. The sides should be slightly smoothed. If the tiles are shaped to standard, they will be easier to install, and the kitchen backsplash will be satisfactory.

Who is responsible for replacing tiles if any are broken during shipping? Although granite is a very hard stone, granite tiles are somewhat brittle. Tiles are usually shipped in styrofoam boxes placed inside a wooden crate, with 5 to 10 tiles in each box. Some companies place a thin foam sheet between each tile.

Were the tiles sealed? Granite tiles are typically shipped unsealed, so that the homeowner can use their sealant of choice. If your tiles were sealed in advance, you need to know what kind of sealer was used.

Knowing the answers to these questions will help you choose the highest quality for your kitchen backsplash tiles.