For homeowners seeking a distinctive, textured stone surface for their kitchens or bathrooms, leathered granite worktops are a chic and useful option. Granite’s durability is enhanced by this polish, which also adds depth and complexity to the stone’s inherent beauty. We’ll go over every aspect of leathered granite countertops below, including their characteristics, advantages, cost, and upkeep.
What is leathered granite?
Granite that has been given a particular finish to provide a soft, textured surface is known as leathered granite. A diamond-tipped brush is used to give the granite slab a “leathered” or “honed” look after it has been carved. Leathered granite has a matte finish with a hint of gloss and a natural, textured feel, in contrast to polished granite, which is smooth and shiny.
Leathered granite offers a more understated look that highlights the stone’s inherent qualities, like veining and color variations, whereas polished granite counters have a glossy, reflective surface. The granite’s hues and patterns are enhanced by the leathering process, giving it a distinctive, opulent appearance.
Key Characteristics of Leathered Granite Countertops
1. Textured Surface
The main feature of leathered granite is its textured finish, which is accomplished by a unique brushing technique. Because of this, the countertop has a certain tactile sensation that is both resilient and soft. Different granite slabs have different textures; some have a more noticeable leathery appearance than others.
2. Matte Finish
Leathered granite appears matte or low-sheen, in contrast to polished granite’s glossy luster. Because of its subtle sheen, it’s a popular option for homeowners who want a more subtle, natural look that doesn’t reflect light as much as polished granite.
3. Enhanced Natural Patterns
The veining and mineral deposits become more apparent as a result of the leathering process, which highlights the granite’s inherent hues and patterns. When applied to stones with intricate patterns or color changes, this can produce a breathtaking visual impact.
4. Slip-Resistant Surface
Leathered granite’s texture makes it more non-slip than polished granite, which makes it a sensible option for places like bathroom vanities or kitchen countertops where spills or water may happen.
Advantages of Leathered Granite Countertops
1. Aesthetically Unique
For homeowners looking for an alternative to the conventional polished stone appearance, leathered granite is a great option. The matte, textured finish adds a warm, elegant look that goes well with both modern and rustic interior design themes. Any area gains a distinctive aesthetic touch from leathered granite’s ability to bring out the stone’s inherent colors and textures.
2. Stain and Smudge Resistance
Leathered granite is more resilient to fingerprints and smudges than polished granite, which is prone to displaying them. Because the matte finish doesn’t reflect as much light, it’s simpler to keep things looking neat and uniform. This feature is particularly helpful in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens, where smudges, water stains, and fingerprints are more common.
3. Durability
Although granite is already among the most resilient natural stones on the market, leathered granite makes it even more resilient. Compared to polished granite, the leather surface is less likely to chip and scratch. Because leathered granite can withstand the wear and tear of regular kitchen operations, this is especially helpful in areas that are frequently used.
4. Heat Resistance
Granite is a great material for kitchens because of its high heat resistance. This advantage is still present in leathered granite, which offers a heat-resistant surface for hot plates or cookware. To extend the countertop’s lifespan and aesthetic appeal, trivets or hot pads are still advised.
5. Slip-resistant surface for Bathrooms
Leathered granite’s texture reduces slickness when wet, which is useful for wet bar areas or bathroom worktops. It is perfect for homes with senior family members or children because of its additional level of protection provided by its slide resistance.
Potential Drawbacks of Leathered Granite Countertops
1. Cost
Because leathering requires more work and time than other granite finishes, leathered granite can be more costly. Although the price varies according to the quality and uniqueness of the stone, leathered granite will cost more than polished or honed finishes. Depending on the stone and provider, leathered granite can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per square foot on average.
2. Limited Color Choices
It could be more difficult to find specific hues and patterns with leathered granite because it is less prevalent than polished granite. Additionally, darker granite hues like black, gray, or deep blue are ideal for the leathering process, which may reduce the selection for individuals looking for lighter shades.
3. Requires Regular Sealing
Leathered granite still requires frequent sealing to preserve its stain resistance, even though it is more stain-resistant than polished granite. The textured surface may retain liquids, oils, and grime if it is not properly sealed, making it more difficult to clean and stain-prone. Depending on usage, the majority of experts advise sealing leathered granite every one to two years.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Leathered Granite
Leathered granite countertops are easy to maintain, but to keep the surface looking its best, regular care is necessary. This is a guide on leathered granite cleaning and maintenance
- Daily Cleaning: Clean the surface every day using a gentle cloth or sponge and mild dish soap. Acidic cleaners and harsh chemicals should be avoided as they might gradually erode the sealant.
- Steer Clear of Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive scrubbers on leathered granite since they may cause harm to the stone’s rough surface. Use sponges or gentle cloths instead.
- Eliminate Stains Right Away: Clean up spills right away to avoid leaving stains. Though not impervious to stains, leathered granite is more stain-resistant than other treatments.
- Reseal as necessary: Every one to two years, leathered granite needs to be sealed. Certain granite varieties might need more frequent sealing; ask your installer for special advice. Apply a few droplets of water to the surface to see if resealing is necessary. It’s time to seal if the water soaks in instead of beading up.
Cost Considerations
Granite countertops with leather are an investment. The type of granite, slab thickness, edge style, and labor costs are some of the variables that will affect the price. Homeowners should anticipate paying, on average:
- The cost of materials ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot.
- The average cost of installation is between $30 and $50 per square foot.
- Total Cost: Depending on the size and complexity of the countertop layout, a typical kitchen installation might cost anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 or more.
The overall cost is also influenced by variables including the supplier, the locality, and the particular type of stone.
Comparing Leathered Granite to Other Finishes
Although leathered granite has special benefits, it’s crucial to evaluate how it stacks up against other popular finishes.
- Polished granite: This smooth, reflecting surface brings out the color and pattern of the stone. Although it is very easily cleaned, fingerprints and smudges are visible.
- Honed Granite: This finish lacks the roughness of leathered granite and is smooth and matte. Although it may stain more readily than leathered granite, polished granite has a gentler appearance.
Personal preferences, usage, and maintenance readiness all play a role in selecting one of these finishes.
Final Thoughts
The gorgeous, textured look of leathered granite countertops accentuates the stone’s inherent beauty. They provide a distinctive substitute for the polished surface and offer advantages like heat resistance, durability, and stain resistance. Although leathered granite is more expensive and needs to be sealed frequently, many homeowners think that the aesthetic and practical advantages make the investment worthwhile.
Knowing the features, upkeep, and expenses of leathered granite can help you determine whether this elegant, long-lasting material is the best choice for your home’s countertop. Leathered granite countertops provide flair and practicality to any area, whether you’re creating a modern bathroom or a rustic kitchen.
