Considerations
Polished granite can be very slippery when wet, posing a safety hazard. It is also a very heavy material, requiring a strong subfloor and professional installation, which can increase costs.
Stone × Application
Granite — flooring
Granite is an exceptionally durable and hard-wearing material, making it ideal for high-traffic flooring in both residential and commercial settings. It is highly resistant to scratches, abrasion, and moisture, and is easy to clean.
Specifications
- Finish: Honed, Flamed, or Bush-hammered finishes are recommended for flooring, especially in wet or high-traffic areas, to enhance slip resistance. Polished finishes are suitable for low-traffic, dry areas where aesthetics are prioritized.
- Thickness: 1.5 cm to 2 cm (tiles) or 2 cm to 3 cm (slabs) is common for flooring, depending on the expected traffic load and subfloor conditions.
- ASTM: ASTM C615/C615M (Standard Specification for Granite Dimension Stone) for material characteristics. ASTM C241/C241M and ASTM C1353/C1353M for abrasion resistance are critical for flooring durability. DCOF testing is essential for slip resistance.
- Maintenance: Low to Medium (requires regular sweeping/dust mopping and damp mopping with pH-neutral cleaners. Periodic sealing may be needed depending on the specific granite and finish).
- Installed: $15-$60/sq ft for tiles, $50-$150/sq ft for slabs (material and installation costs vary based on granite type, finish, complexity of installation, and labor rates).
Top varieties
Absolute Black GraniteTan Brown GraniteCaledonia Granite