The perfect granite countertop finish can really make or break your kitchen or bathroom. The one you choose will impact both aesthetics and functionality. Have you considered leathered granite? This beautiful option offers a warmth and texture you can’t resist, plus it’s customized and stain resistant.
Finishes are typically available in three varieties: honed, polished, and leathered.
Leathered Stone: Defined
Polished stone has a high-gloss, reflective appearance, while honed finishes have more of a matte, smooth look. Leathered stone, which happens to pair well with rustic themes, sports a pebbly texture with small fissures that offer a leathered look. Aptly named, the texture of leathered stone will vary by piece; some surfaces may be prominently “leathered” while other surfaces feature subtle pits and fissures. Unlike polished stone, you won’t find a glossy sheen on leathered varieties.
Benefits of Leathered Stone
If you like countertops that bring out the stone’s natural color with texture, varied customization options, and stain-resistant finishes, leathered stone may be for you. Here are some of the benefits.
Emphasizes Natural Colors
Leathered granite brings out natural colors like no other finish can. In comparison, the high gloss of a polished stone will decrease the dramatic effect of the natural colors. So, if you’re really in love with the color of your granite, go with a leathered finish.
Unique, Flawless Texture
Leathering is not natural. It takes a lot of attention to detail and labor, as fabricators have to brush the granite using diamond-tipped bristles until imperfections have been wiped away. This leaves behind natural grooves and contours, which allow the granite to retain its natural color.
More Customizable
Polished and honed finishes are basically the same, with not that many degrees of difference between each countertop. However, leathered finishes offer a certain level of versatility and customization, depending on the amount of brushing finishers applied. To that end, the finish can be smoother or rougher based on your aesthetic tastes.
Stain Resistant
The leathering process brings a higher stain resistance, thanks to the bristles’ action that closes the stone pores. As a result, they are less absorbent. Leathered finishes are great if you want to prevent staining from foods and beverages on your kitchen countertop, provided you use a sealant.
Drawbacks of Leathered Stone
There are also a few drawbacks of leathered stone, as it’s tougher to clean and can scratch more easily.
Difficult to Clean
The textured surface of leathered granite means it’s harder to clean than honed varieties, as it has grooves where dirt and dust can get trapped. If you still want leathered granite, ask for minimized texturing with a stone that’s been more lightly brushed. All you need is soap and warm water to clean it.
Prone to Scratches
If your countertops get a lot of heavy use or you have kids, scratches may be a big concern for you. Leathered stone scratches more easily than honed or polished granite. But you can apply a scratch-resistant sealant to protect it.
Contact Granite Guy
If you’re interested in learning more about leathered granite for your kitchen or bathroom counters, call our Wellesley fabricators today for a free quote. We welcome you to contact us at 508-460-7900 today.