Granite Countertop Finishes

Granite Countertop Finishes from Regent Granite

An important decision when choosing your granite countertops is the type of finish you would like to use on the granite. The finish you choose can have several practical implications for your granite countertop. It can change the stone’s reflectiveness, how difficult it is to clean, and how resistant it will be to wear and tear among other properties.

There are several options to choose from when selecting your countertop finish and we are happy to give you our design recommendations based on modern style trends and functionality.

Polished

By far the most popular finish for granite countertops today, a polished finish makes the outer layer of your countertop smooth and shiny. This finish is great for kitchen countertops as you can put household objects, like dinnerware or other kitchen essentials, on it without damaging the stone. Another benefit of this surface is that it will not be abrasive when it contacts skin.

A possible drawback to polished finishes is they often become the centre of attention due to their high lustre. If you have other parts of your room you’d rather highlight hi-gloss countertops can be an overwhelming presence. Because of this, we tend to recommend using a polished finish on kitchen islands rather than on perimeter countertops.

Honed

A good alternative to polished granite is a honed finish. A honed finish presents a buffed or matte appearance that lacks the high level of reflection of a polished surface. Like the polished finish, honed granite is smooth and therefore works well in kitchen or bathroom countertop designs.

Leathered or Brushed

A leathered or brushed finish gives the stone a textured appearance while still retaining its natural colour. This finish still has a partial shine, but is less glossy than a polished slab. Leathered granite hides fingerprints and smudges and is popular in countertop and outdoor applications.

Flamed

A flamed granite finish is attained when the granite is subjected to intense heat. The high temperatures causes the grains in the stone to burst and change colour. This results in a rougher outer texture and a faded appearance. Typically, flaming granite produces more muted colours in the stone like tan or charcoal.

A flamed finish is suitable for areas of the home that are prone to dampness. They function well in exterior applications, like for an outdoor kitchen, or for stairs as they offer a slip-resistant surface.

These are the most common types of granite finishes we’re asked implement in design projects. If you’d like more information on our granite finishes or would like a consultation call us at (519) 668-7041.