Granite has been a popular choice due to its strength, natural beauty, and aesthetic flexibility. Granite can add durability and an elegant surface to any space whether used as a kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity. Granite is available in many finishes today, including polished, honed, and leathered. This granite provides appeal with its own texture and look and is gaining popularity as a fresh consideration in the marketplace. In this blog, I will discuss what leathered granite slabs are, the advantages of using leathered granite, where it tends to be used, and finally, how it compares to other finishes for granite.
What is Leathered Granite?
A leathered granite finish is a specially made surface finish for granite slabs that provides a texturized, matte surface. A polished granite slab is smooth and shiny and a honed granite slab is soft and velvet-like. Leathered granite countertops have a textured, tactile, and slightly rough surface which displays the veining, color contrasts, and mineral diversity of the granite.
Each slab is processed to be leathered by running diamond-tipped brushes over the granite surface, resulting in a stylish and natural finish. Some common choices that are usually identified as leathered granite are commonly sought to be black leathered granite, black leather granite countertops, and steel grey granite leathers that are preferred choices in contemporary kitchens and bathroom spaces due to their luxurious and practical value.
How is the Leathered Finish Applied on Granite Surfaces?
Leathering granite requires brushing the granite slab with silicon carbide tipped tools. This method carefully removes surface imperfections while revealing the stone’s natural structure. The final leathered finish can either be rugged or, relatively speaking, smooth, depending on the brushing.
Common Applications of Leathered Granite
Leathered granite is not limited to kitchens; its use extends to multiple areas:
- Kitchen Countertops: The textured, low-glare surface creates a warm, inviting environment for cooking spaces.
- Bathroom Vanities: A leathered granite countertop in a bathroom will hide watermarks better than polished surfaces.
- Outdoor Kitchens & BBQ Areas: Leather finish stone is convenient for outdoor areas because it is durable and resistant to the weather.
- Feature Walls and Fireplace Surrounds: Adds an earthy, sophisticated look to any interior design.
Types and Colors of Leathered Granite Slabs
Several granite leather finish options are trending in the market today:
- Absolute Black Leathered Granite
- Steel Grey Leathered Granite
- Viscon white Leathered Granite
- Black Pearl Leathered Granite
- Black Forest Leathered Granite
Caring for Leathered Granite: Tips and Maintenance Guide
Taking care of leathered granite slabs is simple but essential for long-term beauty:
- Regular Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water to keep your surfaces clean.
- Dusting: A hand broom can assist with dust/crumb removal in the slab’s texture.
- Sealing: Seal leathered granite every 1–2 years with the best sealer for leathered granite to help prevent stains and spills.
- Stain Prevention: Quickly wipe spills, especially oils or acidic substances, to maintain the granite’s pristine look.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is leathered granite?
A granite slab that has been finished through a brushing process, resulting in textured, matte feel.
Q2: Is leathered granite more expensive?
It may be a little more expensive than honed or polished finishes due to the labor-intensive brushing process.
Q3: How to clean leathered granite?
Mild soap, water, and reseal every so often will keep leathered granite looking beautiful.
Q4: Leathered granite vs polished — which is better?
It is a matter of style preference. Leathered provides a more rustic/natural look, while polished provides a glossy elegant look.
Q5: What is the best application of leathered granite?
Kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor areas, and feature walls.
Conclusion
Leathered granite slabs provide a modern spin on natural stone surfaces. You can choose from black leathered granite countertops, grey leathered granite, or steel grey granite leathered, and all will provide a durable, elegant and easy maintenance solution. Leathered granite gives you a stylish and smart solution for your next renovation or construction project, especially with the growing trend of textured finishes