When it comes to interior design, the floor is one of the first things that most people notice. Floors set the tone for a space and influence the standards of the overall living environment.
Choosing the right flooring option, blending both beauty and functionality, becomes an utmost priority. There are a wide variety of options for flooring, among which granite stones are being widely used. Is granite good for flooring? This blog explores the usage of granite for flooring in detail.
Is Granite Good For Flooring?
Yes, granite is a great and popular choice for flooring. It is perfect for bathrooms, recreational areas, and kitchens due to its enormous strength and extreme resistivity against scratches, stains, and heat. It also enhances the real estate value of a house while simultaneously making it aesthetically pleasing.
Granite floors do tend to be expensive and require regular maintenance, such as sealing; if they are not sealed, staining becomes a concern. Additionally, without proper furnishing like a heater, it can be quite uncomfortable in bedrooms. All said and done, it is a good option for people who want beautiful and durable flooring.
Benefits of Granite Flooring
- Granites are known for their exceptional durability due to their high resistance against scratches, chips, wear, and tear. This hardest natural stone, when properly sealed, can last a lifetime.
- Granites come in a wide range of colours and textures that give a sophisticated and timeless look to any space, making it a significant draw for homeowners.
- Granite floors require low maintenance due to their exceptional resistance against all sorts of stains and damages. Regular cleaning with mild detergent and occasional sealing is all they need.
- Granite has exceptional thermal properties that retain room temperature for a long time. It prevents external heat, keeps the floor cold, and provides warmth during winter.
- Its moisture resistance properties prevent staining and water penetration, making it suitable for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms when sealed properly.
- Investing in granite flooring enhances the luxury looks along with durable appeal, which significantly increases the resale value of the property.
Limitations of Granite Flooring
- Granite is highly expensive compared to other flooring options, due to its high-end properties, aesthetic value, and complex installation process requiring skilled labour.
- Granite’s thermal properties keep the floor surface cool, which causes a cold sensation underfoot that may be uncomfortable in colder climates.
- It is considerably a heavy tile compared to other flooring tiles, making it difficult to handle and install, requiring additional support.
- Poorly sealed granite floors are susceptible to staining, especially with dark-coloured granites.
- The hardness of granite may not be comfortable for prolonged standing without cushioned footwear.
Factors To Consider Before Installing Granite Floor
Subfloor Preparation
Ensure that the subfloor is flat, level, and clean. Any undulations in the subfloor can cause granite tiles to crack or shift over time. Ensure that the subfloor is strong enough to bear the weight of this hard natural stone. If the subfloor is weak, it needs to be reinforced before installation to prevent structural issues.
Sealing
Granites are porous and can absorb water, causing stains. This can be avoided by sealing the tiles before installing them. It is necessary to understand that sealing the granite tile surface should be done periodically, especially when used in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Style and Design
Granites offer a wide variety of colours, patterns, finishes, and sizes. Consider which granite best complements your space and style, with countless options. Based on the quality and unique style and pattern, the cost of this natural stone varies.
Professional Installation
Granite tiles are hard to install, especially when there is a need for precise cutting and heavy handling. It requires skilled labour for professional installation, as it should be properly aligned, levelled and placed securely.
Maintenance
The maintenance of granite floors is relatively low, but it requires regular cleaning using mild detergents. Since the sealings can get damaged over time, they require periodic resealing every 1 to 2 years, depending on usage and traffic.
Granite Floor Installation Process
Apply Adhesive
After ensuring the pre-installation requisite, apply the high-quality adhesive or mortar to the subfloor using a notched trowel, over which the granite needs to be placed. The adhesive is spread in small sections at a time to prevent rapid drying.
Install Tiles
Place the granite tiles over the adhesive carefully and press down firmly. Follow the layout, placing the remaining tiles in place and ensuring that they have uniform gaps between them. For edges, corners, or obstacles, measure and cut the granite into appropriate shapes using a wet saw. Ensure that the tiles are level and properly aligned, and adjust their position using a rubber mallet.
Grouting
After one to two days of placing the tiles, apply grout to the spaces between the tiles. Rubber floats can be used at a 45-degree angle to fill the joints. Excess grout and spilled grout can be cleaned using a damp sponge before it dries to ensure that the tiles stay clean.
Sealing
After the grout is dries, typically after 24 hours, apply sealant over the granite tiles to help prevent stains and moisture infiltration. After sealing, polish the granite to give a shiny and polished finish.
Final Cleaning and Inspection
Sweep the floor to remove leftovers, dust, or debris. Ensure that the tiles are securely placed and the grout lines are uniform. Allow the floor to settle for at least one to two days to completely cure before walking on it or placing weights.
Comparison: Granite vs Marble Flooring
| Feature | Granite Flooring | Marble Flooring |
| Appearance | Speckled, varied patterns, and colours; often more uniform | Smooth, elegant look with bold veins and unique patterns |
| Durability | Extremely durable, resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks | Softer, more prone to scratching, chipping, and staining |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance, easy to clean, requires sealing | Higher maintenance; requires regular sealing and care to avoid stains |
| Heat Resistance | Highly heat-resistant, ideal for kitchens and high-temperature areas | Less heat-resistant and more prone to damage from hot items |
| Moisture Resistance | Resistant to moisture once sealed, making it suitable for bathrooms and kitchens | Prone to staining from liquids; needs regular sealing |
| Cost | Granite more affordable than marble | More expensive due to its luxury appeal and rarity |
| Installation Complexity | Requires professional installation due to weight and cutting needs | Also requires skilled installation due to the soft nature of the stone |
Conclusion
To conclude, granite is an excellent choice for flooring due to its durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. It adds a timeless beauty with a variety of colours, patterns, and textures, giving a versatile option for your living spaces. Although it has a high initial cost, it saves on maintenance costs. The luxurious and sophisticated looks, along with durable nature of the stone, add significant resale value to the building.