The Strength of Granite: The Benefits of Granite Tile Flooring

If you’re looking for strong, durable, attractive flooring options, granite tiles are the go-to choice for many homeowners. This natural stone adds value to your home, is incredibly versatile, and available in a variety of colors to help granite tile flooring fit with nearly any décor.

Since you can also use granite to tile countertops, backdrops, and patios, you can create a truly cohesive look throughout your home. The tiles are easy to care for and highly durable yet still uniquely beautiful. That unique beauty is because no two granite stone tiles look alike.

The Benefits of Granite Tile Flooring

Granite tile floors offer a wide variety of benefits, starting with their incredible versatility. These tiles occur naturally in an enormous array of colors, including whites, grays, blacks, browns, reds, and greens. Patterns range from nearly solid to mottled to a veining similar to what you see in marble tiles. Whatever look you want for your home’s décor, there’s a granite tile to help you achieve it.

These tiles are also highly resistant to moisture and water, making them the preferred natural stone tile choice for kitchens and baths. With proper sealing, granite tiles resist staining and last a lifetime. This moisture resistance is part of why granite tiles are considered hypoallergenic, since moisture creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and other allergens.

Granite flooring is also highly durable and nearly impossible to break (assuming you don’t routinely drop bowling balls on your floors). These tiles also resist both scratching and heat. Plus, their moisture resistance helps protect against staining.

Of the natural tile choices, granite is one of the most cost-effective while still adding significant value to your home. Should you ever sell, you can expect to recoup the cost of your investment.

Granite Tile Finishes

Natural stone tiles come in a variety of finishes, with each option slightly altering the appearance of your granite flooring.

• Brushed granite: This finish creates a silky, brushed look; the stone almost appears soft and the surface appears more “closed” than in other finishes.
• Flamed granite: A high-intensity flame creates a rough, textured finish to the stone’s surface. This is a popular option for outdoor applications, as the rough finish reduces slipping.
• Honed granite: This is a flat, matte finish that doesn’t have the reflective qualities found in polished granite; it works well for high traffic areas.
• Polished granite: This creates a high shine and a reflective appearance that highlights the stone’s individual character. Typically, the polished stone’s colors look richer and darker. This finish creates a more slippery tile, though, so it is best used in low traffic areas.

How to Care for Granite Tile Flooring

Even though granite resists staining and is incredibly durable, it still requires proper care to ensure it lasts a lifetime. That care starts with installation, as granite tile flooring should be sealed to improve its moisture resistance. You should also talk to your installer about the best way to care for your new flooring, including whether there are any recommended cleaners designed specifically for granite tiles.

Sweep the floors once or twice a week, particularly high traffic areas. This ensures debris does not build up and damage the stone. You may also mop once a week, preferably using a soft cloth or rag mop. Do not use bleach, ammonia, or harsh products, as these erode the sealant and damage the stone. Also, never use acidic products, such as vinegar or lemon juice, on granite tiles. If your installer didn’t recommend a cleaner, your best bet is a mild dishwashing liquid added to warm water or a pH-neutral stone cleanser.

When spills do occur, wipe them up quickly with a dry cloth or paper towel. Then, wipe the area clean with a clean, damp cloth. For tougher stains, you may use warm, soapy water to clean the area. Finally, dry the area with a soft cloth to prevent streaking.

Where to Install Granite Tile Flooring

Granite tile flooring works well throughout the home, but it is especially popular in moisture-prone areas, such as the kitchen and bathroom. It also holds up well to outdoor applications, but it tends to be slippery when wet, so if you do install granite tiles outside, consider the flamed finish.

If you’re ready to learn more about granite tiles, schedule an appointment to visit our showroom and meet with one of our natural stone tile experts.