Countertops

One of the most frequent uses of granite in the building industry is for countertops. Granite counters can be used in kitchens and bathrooms of many sizes and shapes. Granite slabs are cut to 1 1/4 inches in thickness to be mounted onto the cabinet frame. Holes for sink bowls and stoves can be cut from the stone, and the interior of the cutout polished for a sleek and contemporary look. Granite can be ground and polished on all edges and two slabs can be fitted together tightly on one long counter.

Floor and Wall Tiles

Granite pieces left over from slabs and blocks are cut, shaped and finished into granite tiles. These tiles are nominally 12 inches in size and 3/8 inch thick. Because granite is hard and durable, these tiles can be installed on floors, walls, counters and ceilings throughout homes and businesses. While marble can scratch and stain and is not recommended for high traffic or wet areas, granite can be installed in busy walkways or shower walls without problems. Granite tiles are available in a wide range of colors and styles and require very little maintenance once installed.

Decorative Monuments

Granite is quarried in extremely large blocks. These blocks are then cut up to form slabs, smaller blocks and tiles. From these blocks, large decorative monuments and nonstructural building accents can be formed. These include statues, statue bases, decorative entryway monuments, such as urns or lions, as well as columns, arches and buttresses. Because granite is so durable, it can be left outdoors without fear of weathering, allowing the exteriors of buildings to have permanent, decorative monuments installed.