Most consumers don’t really know all that much about the different kinds of granite. There are different levels of granite, and each level is at a different pricing point. As a homeowner, it is important to know the differences between the levels of granite and which one will work best for you home, and Rock Doctor is here to help explain all of this for you.
Level One Granites
Level one, or entry level, is the lowest grade of granite. Granite of this grade is often very simple, and the colors are standard. This lower quality granite is usually pre-fabricated, and it is frequently used in apartments, pre-fab remodels, and furniture. It is cut thinner than other grades of granite, and it is generally only about 3/8-inch thick. This means that it needs a plywood backing for extra support. Entry level granite is often imported from China and sold in liquidation or big box stores. Prices usually range from $40 to $50 per square foot, and it is a great choice for homeowners who want granite on a budget.
Level Two Granites
Granite in the level two category tends to be a little more unique in color and design. Patterns in level two granite will be less uniform than those in level one granites. Mid-grade granite is typically about 3/4 -inch thick and comes from India or Brazil. Mid-level of granite usually runs from $50 to $60 per square foot.
Level Three Granites
Level three granite and up, or high-grade granite, includes some of the most beautiful granite on the planet. Granites of these grades are of the finest quality. These types of granite may be very rare in appearance or may come from a rare granite source. Colors and patterns of level three and higher granites can be very rare, and you will be able to see the minerals in the stone. Granites of level three or higher are generally brought to the United States from Brazil or India. Generally, it is 3/4-inch thick or more. For the higher quality granites, you can expect to pay between $60 and $100 per square foot of the material.
In most cases, grades go up to a five, but some companies may grade granite up to a level six or seven.
Caring for Granite
Granite does require a little extra TLC. To keep granite looking its very best, you will need to get special products to safely clean and protect your granite. Don’t ruin your investment with cheap cleaning products that contain acids and other ingredients that can damage stone countertops such as granite.
Rock Doctor’s granite care supplies work on all levels of granite. Whether you have the world’s most expensive granite on your countertops or the cheapest granite you could find locally, Rock Doctor can keep your countertops looking brand new for decades to come.
The Rock Doctor Granite & Quartz Cleaner can be used daily to clean all the gunk from your countertops. Since it is safe for all types of stone, it can also be used on marble and quartz. This cleaner doesn’t contain acids like many cleaners do, which makes it gentle enough for stone surfaces without causing abrasions. It won’t discolor the stone, and it even removes existing stains from the surface of your countertops. Plus, it has a clean, fresh scent.
Cleaning granite countertops is just the beginning. To keep granite looking like new, you should use a polish on it at least once a week. Rock Doctor’s Granite & Quartz Polish not only keeps countertops shiny, but it also leaves behind a water-resistant coating that can help further protect the granite from spills and etching. Plus, the emollients and carnauba wax in the polish fills in small cracks and other imperfections in your countertops.
Lastly, granite countertops need to be sealed at least once every 18 months. The Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer is a fast, effective way to seal your granite countertops. This sealer is water-based and safe for natural stones. It also provides a protective barrier against stains and moisture for your granite countertops.
Don’t risk damaging your gorgeous granite countertops with all-purpose cleaners. If you want to learn more about Rock Doctor products, feel free to call today at 913-894-0288. Our experts can help you better understand how our products protect and clean your granite countertops.
