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The Possible Nightmare: Honed Granite

I love the look of honed natural stone such as granite. What do you know about honed stone and the up keep? Which would be best to use for a kitchen to achieve this look and be most durable – Ann

Hello Ann,

Honed granite in the kitchen can be very elegant as well as present an ‘old world’ or even very modern ambiance. However, the wrong honed granite, such as “Black Absolute” can create a nightmare maintenance situation because of its homogenous dark color and mineral structure that shows every finger print and cleaning pattern. I have written other important postings about Black Absolute so be sure to read then before choosing this color. Just search, “Black Granite” on the blog.

Polished granite is my preference but I can definitely understand the ‘honed’ presentation. It is more appropriate in some cases. It should not be for me to recommend one or the other unless maintenance is major concerned or the full design scope was explained.

Honed granite colors still need to be professionally sealer. Let me know which color you finally decide upon and I will give you my specific comments.

Best wishes,
Tom Cordova

This entry was posted on Monday, February 19th, 2007 at 7:59 pm and is filed under Answers to Granite Questions..., Granite Choice Advice, Granite Color Help. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Ask a question (be sure to tell me the stone color name if applicable to your question):

115 Questions Recently Posted:


  1. September 8th, 2007 at 7:58 pm

    Hi Tom,
    Well, we thought we had made it through the kitchen reno with flying colors: beautiful wood floors, shaker style maple cabinets stained a rich praline, elegant, understated light fixtures, stainless appliances, tumbled marble backsplash. But guess what we picked for our countertops? Your all-time Must Avoid: Honed Black Absolute. (We loved the look of slate, but our kitchen designer said that slate was too high-mainenance and fragile, so steered us to the black granite.) We have had it for a mere week, and yes, I am living the nightmare. But being an eternal optimist, I just have to believe there’s a way out. I have read some Web postings that say not to seal the honed Black Absolute (or strip off the sealer), and just clean it with Dawn and/or Bon Ami. I am also wondering if we could forget about the “honed” look altogether, and just polish the countertops on site, if that would solve the problem. There has got to be a way out! Please help!!!
    Thanks so much,
    Marianne


  2. September 13th, 2007 at 9:56 am

    Before finding your admonition against honed absolute black, I almost chose an absolute black with a brushed finish. Does brushed present the same issues as honed?

    If so, is there a low maintenance, fairly uniform, charcoal colored granite you would recommend, preferably in a brushed finish? Would something speckled work such as impala black? Our walls are gray-blue, our appliances are stainless, and our floors and cabinets are oak.

    If we must go with polished, the cambrian black leather (polished) seems very, very interesting. Any experience with this?

    Best,
    Debbie


  3. December 26th, 2007 at 6:25 am

    Tom,

    We are buliding a new house. My wife thought she did not like the look of highly polished granite and decided she wanted honed granite. We chose Giallo Ornamental. The countertops were brought to the house polished and “honed” on-site with grinding wheels. They managed to get all of the wheel marks off but now it has a dusty and dirty appearance that we do not like. In addition, water changes the color of the granite until it dries. It has not yet been sealed. Here are my questions:

    1) Can it be re-polished on site? Even if it cannot be returned to its original high gloss we might be happy with a lesser degree of polished finish.

    2) Should we treat it with something (like a color enhancer) before sealing?

    3) What kind of sealer should we use?

    4) Should we just admit our mistake and just have it replaced?

    Any help is appreciated. Thanks

    Cort in Houston


  4. May 4th, 2008 at 11:52 am

    I am building a two story craftsman style home and would like your opinion on the granite countertops. I fell in love with honed black countertops I saw in a photo however when I saw the “absolute black” after honing it was awful. Can you make a suggestion as to what “black”granite I should use to get that “old world” dull black finish I’m looking for?


  5. July 26th, 2008 at 7:08 pm

    I really wanted to use soapstone in my kitchen. I love the look. But I am building in an area where most of the builders are not familiar with the product. I have read your post on honed absolute black granite and the finger print problem. My other searches provide mixed reviews good/bad. What product do you recommend to me that has the look I am trying to get in the color black. Thanks so much.


  6. August 20th, 2008 at 11:23 am

    I would like to have WHITE SPRING honed or brushed. How is the upkeep of that granite? How would it look?

    Thank you!


  7. September 8th, 2008 at 6:15 pm

    Our KD has recommended an absolute black leather for our counter tops. They are gorgeous (saw the slabs), but we can’t get a sample to test from the dealer (not unusual in New England). We have read a lot about doctored absolute black, susceptibility to acidic substances in stones sold under that name, and a host of other problems. When asked, the dealer told us that as long as we kept it sealed, it would be OK. He said, as far as he knew it was not doctored, and we were unable to find out where the stone was quarried. This is a large and reputable stone yard. Should we pull the trigger on this or run away?


  8. September 25th, 2008 at 1:46 pm

    I was just wondering the same thing – honing absolute black to get the ’soapstone’ look. We have kids though so I don’t like the sounds of upkeep and looking dirty all the time :) Do you have any granite colors you do recommend honed to get that soapstone look w/white cabinetry? Thx!


  9. October 4th, 2008 at 5:50 pm

    We are thinking of installing honed Opalescense granite in our kitchen. I have read your opinion on honed Black Absolute – what is your opinion of honed Opalescence? Is there a particular “black” granite that you feel is the best honed?


  10. October 13th, 2008 at 11:22 am

    We are interested in Verde Peacock granite and can’t decide on polished or honed surface. Polished Verde Peacock granite seems too shiney, so we are considering the honing process. Please tell me what are the pros and cons of honing this color. Is this type of granite with many gold veins more apt to crack? Thanks, Carol


  11. October 17th, 2008 at 8:50 am

    I am trying to do a kitchen remodel based on the movie,” Something’s got to give” with the white inset cabinets with all glass uppers, white apron sink and a large island in the middle. I will have white walls as well as white subway tiles. I had assumed I would do honed absolute granite until I read all your posts. In the movie set they used fake soapstone. I would like to use a honed granite in black and would love ideas that would give me the dark black look with little to no sheen and frankly as few flecks or design as possible. We love to cook and I will be crazed if my granite stains or looks crummy all the time. Are there black granites out there that will take honing and hold up to water, fingerprints and be stainproof. If so, should they be sealed and how many coats should be applied and how often.


  12. October 20th, 2008 at 6:44 pm

    Hi: I am really wanting honed granite. It seems to be increasing in popularity and I like the look and feel of it. I am looking at verde peacock, verde ubatuba and one of the other dark verdes (which I can’t presently remember). I am wondering how bad maintenance-wise it would be to use these granites honed and if there are any examples where I can see a piece honed as locally I am still seeing a lot of polished granite. I am wondering how much it will change the color. Thanks.


  13. November 10th, 2008 at 2:56 pm

    I have a client who specified honed, black absolute for their kitchen. They understand the finger print and stain potential issues. The problem is that the surface scratches very easily. From everything that I have read and learned, this is not common for any granite, which is a very hard substance. They are afraid to even use it. Have you ever heard of granite that scratches very easily before? Could they have gotten an inferior product? Before they go through the expense of changing to something else I am trying to get some other opinions on this.


  14. November 16th, 2008 at 1:38 pm

    My kitchen sink is 3 months old. It is black granite. I put some drain cleaner down the kitchen drain. I must have spilled some on the granite. I was away for 5 hours, the sink now has white spots on it. (1 is about 2 inches long and a half inch wide) . Is there anything I can do? Please help! It looks awful


  15. November 20th, 2008 at 11:25 pm

    I have chosen granite in Venetian Gold (a darker than normal slab) for my kitchen countertops. I really want to do the honed granite look for its softness in appearance and its look of natural stone. Also, we have a lot of light that comes into this room from A-frame windows and I don’t want there to be a glare.

    What do you think about this service and how should I seal it? Thanks. LYNN


  16. November 21st, 2008 at 1:11 am

    What kind of honed black granite would you recommend?

    I like the look of honed black so please let me know.


  17. December 4th, 2008 at 7:16 pm

    We just had absolute black honed granite installed in our kitchen. What would you recommend sealing it with? I think they sealed it with Dupont Pro Enhancer. They originally used Tannex Ager, but had to strip it due to the fact that they didn’t clean it before they sealed it. Is there a sealant that would protect it? I realize we will get fingerprints, but I feel as though we see scratches in it already. Help!


  18. February 13th, 2009 at 12:53 pm

    We have honed absolute black granite and it looks like it has whitish streaks in it. Our installer used a silicone based sealer and we have been told we need to remove it with acetone and use a solvent based color enhancing sealer. Is this right?


  19. February 19th, 2009 at 7:26 pm

    Hello! We are looking into replacing our kitchen counters and love the look of both Black Cambria in the leather finish, and Absolute Black in the leather finish. I would love to hear your opinion on which stone might be a better choice for us, in regard to maintenance and durability. Neither my husband nor I like the polished, marbled look of most granite counters, so we were very excited to find those two black stones with the leather finish.

    Thank you so much!

    – Jen


  20. February 23rd, 2009 at 3:24 pm

    I just ordered “Absolute Black Honed” granite from my fabricator. When they installed it I realized the surface was not smooth as expected. It looks more like the “satin” or “fired” finish. Not rough like anticata, but definitely not smooth like the polished (minus the shine). I am trying to figure out if it is my error in not being specific, or if “honed” is “honed”. He says the stone is “honed” and I am wondering if honed is a universal word that ALWAYS means “smooth surface just before polished”. Is there any room for error hear? I was thinking it “honed” is a fixed term and all honed products are the same. Would love your help


  21. April 6th, 2009 at 2:21 pm

    We are in the process of installing new kitchen cabinets in our kitchen and considering a granite countertop. We’ve looked a colors and really like the Tan Brown or Newton Brown, are all darker colors going to show fingerprints and be more maintenance? Also should we go with a 3/4″ or 1-1/4″ granite? Is weight an issue when you are dealing with most type of cupboards you buy these days like some of the ones at Home Depot? Our cupboard have real wood in the front an doors but the shelves and back are all made of some type of practical board, can they withstand the weight? Does the 3/4″ need extra support?
    We need to make a decision soon and I would really appreciate your advice.

    Sincerely, Lucy Nahls


  22. May 20th, 2009 at 7:26 am

    We purchased honed picasso granite (brown, grey and black). What do you recommend we use as a sealer? Is this a high maintenance graninte?


  23. June 11th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

    What are the pros and cons of honed absolute black granite vs. leathered absolute black granite?

    Thank you.

    Laura


  24. June 21st, 2009 at 6:34 am

    Tom, I like the look of Absolute Black Honed Granite but after reading the nightmares of this product and testing a piece (olive oil, ketchup) I have changed my mind. Now what to do, how about polished or honed black soapstone ? Will this give me the look that I am going for and will it be easy to keep up ? I do not like the look of polished granite (black too modern) and do not want the busy pattern in most granite, quartz etc. I am looking for something more country. I have pine cabinets with a horizon (honey-like) stain with a brown glaze wash. I have wide plank wood floors in a honey color. SS appliances & a white farm sink. I am leaning toward a blackish color. Help! Connie


  25. August 19th, 2009 at 7:10 am

    Glad to find your site. We are remodeling and found a beautiful granite–Green Iron Brushed—will this be a problem for upkeep in our kitchen? Thanks.


  26. August 23rd, 2009 at 11:10 am

    We have high gloss granite on our kitchen floor which shows everything. Is there a way to hone it in place for a more user-friendly surface?


  27. September 21st, 2009 at 3:52 pm

    We are purchasing a granite called Via Appia for our kitchen countertops but one fabricator says he will use silicone while the other says acetone based sealer is better. Who do I believe? Marie


  28. October 19th, 2009 at 1:09 pm

    i’m thinkng about honed jet mist granite-what are your thoughts about durability, maintenance and the like. thank you in advance for your reply.


  29. October 28th, 2009 at 6:10 pm

    We are considering Bianco Romano granite (nearly white with garnet inclusions) and wanted to hone it; however, we’ve heard from the estimator that removing the polished surface will make it more porous and subject to stains. I preferred the matte finish because of its more casual appearance and because I didn’t want to have to work so hard to keep it looking shiny; however, if this creates further problems down the road for myself, I may be making a mistake. Can you give me some direction/advice?


  30. November 27th, 2009 at 9:09 pm

    Dear Tom – We have a honed black granite countertop and have been quite unhappy with it. As you say, it shows every finger print and cleaning pattern. Is it possible to have the honed granite polished to a high gloss so it becomes easier to clean and does not show fingerprints and cleaning patterns?


  31. December 23rd, 2009 at 2:41 pm

    We are in the middle of a complete kitchen remodel. We originally chose Ubatuba granite, but due to availability it’s being changed to Verde Peacock. My backsplash will be tumbled marble in a variety of shades of gray and we are looking to a Shaw Old Mill Sunset Splendor. With all of the variation in the Verde Peacock, I’m worried we’re going to have too much going on. – Carla


  32. December 27th, 2009 at 2:39 pm

    We recently had honed black absolute granite installed in our kitchen. It looks great in keeping with the age of our home (1838) but no one ever told me about how difficult the upkeep would be. I can handle the smudges but can’t stand how easily it scratches, just from placing cookware on it. It was professionally sealed upon installation. Is there anything we can do periodically to remove the scratches? Thanks for any suggestions.


  33. January 10th, 2010 at 8:48 pm

    I was planning to use Costa Esmeralda for our new kitchen. I stumbled upon a process called brushed. Since my kitchen is designed to be more vintage than modern, I liked the soft, antique tone of the brushed look much better than polished. I know nothing about it’s care and maintenance. Will polished hold up better? Will brushed be more problematic. I use my kitchen often so ease of care is an important consideration. Ellen


  34. January 26th, 2010 at 12:20 pm

    I’d like to use honed absolute black granite w/ a leather finish and an “enhancer” to maintain the darker black color. Will this show the stains as well? I’m also looking to use a cararra or calcutta gold marble on my perimeter (not very big area). I know there is alot of upkeep but if I hone the marble is that better? Any other suggestions for a white granite rather than the marble and a black/gray granite other than the honed absolute?Thanks for your help! Leslie


  35. January 30th, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    Hi Tom,

    I have honed brown/black granite in my kitchen which I have never maintained out of ignorance. It has been ten years. I wipe it with a vinegar/water spray. It spots easily. Wondering how to restore/seal/maintain it. Thanks for your help. Liz Mentent


  36. February 15th, 2010 at 7:45 pm

    What is the country of origin for Giallo Praline granite and Kashmir?


  37. February 21st, 2010 at 8:08 pm

    Hi,
    I would like to know if brushed granite, yellow river to be exact, is just as durable in a kitchen as polished.?


  38. February 22nd, 2010 at 8:47 pm

    Tom,
    I’m been looking at three green granites, all of which look great when polished, except for the reflections. I don’t like the glitzy effect, and the reflected lights really annoy me for kitchen counter use, so I’m seriously thinking about honed granite with sealing. I’m considering these granites: UbaTuba, Pocono Green, and Butterly Green.

    Can you tell me whether or not these particular granites turn out to look as good when honed as when polished? What is the aesthetic loss or gain with honing for each of them? I’ll appreciate any recommendation/information you can give me. Many thanks.


  39. February 24th, 2010 at 8:39 am

    My wife has picked out Italiam Black Brushed granite (also known as Cambrian Black River Washed) for kitchen countertops at a new home we are renovating; when I went to place the order, the fabricator warned me about the possible issues with cleaning greasy fingerprints. I asked if applying an ager/sealer at the outset would help. Some entries on your blog also mention potential scratching issues. What do you think?


  40. February 27th, 2010 at 7:41 pm

    In regarding to Possible Nightmare Honed Granite article, I am considering this for my countertop also. It is suggested that Absolute Black will not provide the desired results. Which type will provide the desired results of a honed flat black look? What sealer would be used also?


  41. March 3rd, 2010 at 7:12 am

    I have Thunderball granite for my island. It is a brushed finished. When I wipe the slab with water, it turns a richer color but then dries. What sealer is best to keep that rich look?


  42. March 15th, 2010 at 4:14 pm

    Hi,
    I am looking at using China Blue honed granite on my kitchen counters. Do you think that this will be difficult to keep up? Is it likely to get hard water stains or stains from food? I am trying to do something that gives the feel of a light colored soapstone. Also, do you know of any granite that is fairly white or white with a touch of gray. I want the darker color for my white kitchen cabinets and a light color for my island. Thanks, Tami


  43. May 11th, 2010 at 2:41 pm

    how do i take care of honed granite . color black absolute thank you


  44. June 10th, 2010 at 12:19 pm

    Hello, We saw Cambrian Black Antique at Nebraska Furniture Mart in KC of all places. Since then I have seen tons on the web re: people that love it. However we cannot find it at our local warehouses, how do we get this granite? Or if we have to switch, to another antique/leather granite what would be the next closest thing. The warehouses here seem not to know the antique process, and that it is differnt than honed. We really like the texture, it will be used on perimiter counters, with reclaimed walnut on the island. Also we have new black kitchen aid appliances…..to much black? THANKS! Alicia from Kansas City.


  45. June 15th, 2010 at 6:12 pm

    We recently purchased a black absolute table from a reputable dealer. It has a light spot, about the size of a dime, right in the middle of the table. The table is obviously very balck and the spot is very visible to all who sit down. I do not feel I should have to cover it with a centerpiece. I feel it should have been fabricated properly so that variations in the stone were inconspicuous and considered when it was cut, perhaps putting any visible spots on an edge. Am I correct? Is there anything that can be done to fix it? Thanks


  46. June 23rd, 2010 at 10:38 am

    s there a process that can be done to honed absolute black that is not so rough?I have seen some that is leathered and the finish is very rough..almost need a toothbrush to clean? My fear is the maintenance of the ABhoned…I am leaning toward soapstone, but the $ are much higher…just wondering if anything can be put on AB granite that elevates the finger prints problems?
    Thanks,
    RGB


  47. June 29th, 2010 at 2:48 am

    Can the leathered and honed finishes be sealed to resist red wine?

    We are looking at a lighter color and entertain a lot with wine going everywhere sometimes.

    Thanks, Dean


  48. July 6th, 2010 at 8:00 pm

    Hi, I am choosing an granite counter for my kitchen. The colour is “antique brown”. I prefer the leathered finish with the uneven surface. Do you think this is a good choice with this colour? Are there any drawbacks that I may not be thinking about? If you could provide me with some feedback it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. janice


  49. July 12th, 2010 at 5:52 am

    Hello, I am in the process of finalizing my granite for a kitchen counter top. I have picked Antique Brown and would prefer a leathered finish.
    Can you share your thoughts about this type of finish with this colour? Thanks. janice


  50. July 25th, 2010 at 6:00 am

    Tom,

    Honed Black absoulte: Does it scrtach easily, it looks that way on samples, I was able to scratch it with my key. How do you get ride of the scratches?

    Thanks,

    Ed


  51. July 26th, 2010 at 5:19 pm

    We just bought a 1893 Victorian.. i want black honed granite because the shiney granite looks too new.
    What to do?


  52. October 16th, 2010 at 7:47 pm

    I very much want to have honed Ivory Fantasy granite installed in my kitchen since I am trying to achieve an old world charm/Italian kitchen. My husband and stone guy have talked me out of travertine. Tell me your opinion on having a honed finish on the Ivory Fantasy.

    Thank you!
    Anna


  53. October 17th, 2010 at 11:36 am

    Hi, We just bought a house in center city Philly, it’s four stories, modern with exposed duct work in some places, hardwood pine floors and narrow. It’s vertical living so kitchen/dining area is one one floor and living room is below. The kitchen was fully redone before we bought – craftmaid honey stained cherry cabinets, modern brushed alumimum hardware, stainless steel appliances, and Bianco Romano granite countertops and same granite backsplash. Space is small. We are putting in a kitchen island with overhang for three stools (countertop will be approx 36″ by 48″). Wanted to do the same bianco romano granite, but can’t find a good enough match. All looks like we tried to match but failed. Now are considering Matrix Honed Granite for the island. It looks a lot like slat (which matches some of our tiling by the front door). Thoughts? Thank you!


  54. November 4th, 2010 at 3:40 pm

    We are planning on useing Juparanus Delicatus. Were thinkin go leathering the isaland with this. Will it be suitable? Thanks, laurie


  55. November 4th, 2010 at 3:42 pm

    We are planning on using Juparanus Delicatus. We`re thinking of leathering the island with this. Will it be suitable? Thanks, laurie


  56. November 9th, 2010 at 1:47 pm

    I am interested in a leather finish counter top for my kitchen. Gazon leather finish or Baricatto leather finish. Does the leather finish stain? Is it durable and low maintenance? How often does it need to be sealed?
    Any other information will be appreciated.
    Thank you, Margaret


  57. November 15th, 2010 at 8:47 pm

    Tom- Here I am thinking I want to have Absolute Black honed granite for my kitchen. The designer I am working suggested it, and it feels like the look I am going for. After reading here online, I am thinking I should go with a polished granite. Do you feel any differently about the honed AB…than you did in 2007? Does enhancing do anything to protect the finish or does it just deepen the color? It seems there is more opposition to honed than favorable. Could you give me your latest most updated feelings? thank you Cheryl


  58. November 25th, 2010 at 9:51 pm

    I have a few questions. Out expensive granite has turned out to be a nightmare that never ends. I delivered my new sink to them in perfect condition. Then it was banged up before the install. Granite color is Emerald Pearl. It was beatiful and a level 4.

    First it was being installed and there was a huge difference between the wall and granite and the owner came out and took off 300 if I would just get the wall skim coated. Odd that he stayed for the entire install. he told me he would have to take everything back if we didnt want this piece. We had no power in the kitchen and the install was finished about six. We paid in full and the owner left. The next morning I was in tears after noticing that there wasnt any overhang in the bump out. (I’m sure they knew this) he told me all walls are uneven. The templete person came back and his templete was correct and the pieces were cut wrong. They had to tear it out cut my drywall and dirty my brand new custom cabinets. Then they dragged out the reistall and I even went down to get my money back. He said his wife had the checkbook at home. Lots of stories.

    When they finally reistalled. Again still now power or lights in the new addition I wrote on the form that I couldn’t inspect the stone. The next day I noticed a huge scratch like an arch on the granite. I told them they had y to come out and fix it or tear it out and I wanted my money back. They had three different crews buff etc. A huge mess on my tile with black stuff. It looked okay. A few weeks later when our lights were installed and we had power to the new addition. I noticed that the area was dull and there are what I call pock marks in the Granite. We still have no backspash since I am so stuck on what to do. I feel they should tear it all out and give my money back its been a few months and I feel taken. My island is Abrolos Green and beautiful although it seems when you run your hand around the perimeter I feel tiny bits missing. This guy runs a huge place in Philadelphia.

    We have lived in our house 20 plus years and put alot of money into our dream kitchen which the granite has turned into a nightmare. Emerald pearl was level 4 and the Abrolos Green level 5.

    I should of know something was up when he stayed and kept chatting with me during the install and asking how much everything cost etc. I was very distracted. I believe they all knew the granite was wrong and hoped I wouldn’t notice. Help! What to do?


  59. November 26th, 2010 at 7:41 am

    Hi Tom,

    We just got a honed jet mist granite put on our bathroom vanity. We were told that we would need to seal it and so we bought the sealer that the granite company recommended that will keep the gray look as we like the granite lighter than darker in color.

    We haven’t sealed it yet as there are already oil like marks on the granite from the installation process that I hoped to clean off prior to sealing.

    After reading some of your responses to others about honed granite, I am now questioning if sealing ours is the right way to proceed? I also am confused on how best to maintain and clean it and how to get these oil looking marks removed?

    Could you advise on what you would recommend we do next to clean, protect and maintain the honed jet mist granite vanity top in our bathroom?

    Kindly,
    Christine


  60. December 13th, 2010 at 3:34 pm

    I too had Honed Black Absolute installed in my kitchen. We have had it for a year and I just cannot live with its look anymore!, I am an eternal optimist, I just have to believe there’s a way out. I am wondering if we could forget about the “honed” look altogether, and just polish the countertops on site, if that would solve the problem. There has got to be a way out! Please help!!!
    Thanks so much,
    Tracy


  61. December 13th, 2010 at 3:41 pm

    I am stuck! Our kitchen contractor is waiting on me to make a countertop decision. Every picture I’ve ripped out of magazines as inspiration is either marble or a matte black. I’ve ruled out marble and soapstone due to maintenance and stainability and price and such. Then I was drawn to honed absolute black and got scared away from that bc of the fingerprint complaints. What I’ve been drawn to now is

    Absolute Black Brazilian Brushed
    Cambrian Black Antique

    Can you tell me the pros and cons of choosing a brushed and/or antiqued granite? Do you have any other suggestions that we should look at?

    We will have white shaker style cabinets, honey-colored wood floors and a vintage-y (not country) comfortable style. Would love your thoughts!

    Thank you~

    Erin


  62. December 18th, 2010 at 9:37 am

    I have had installed Daltile tumbled Torreon on a kitchen backsplash and have picked Mapei Bisquit #14 for the grout which is not yet completed. I’m liking the look of the tile as I see it without the grout or sealer. Perhaps a bit white, but I would rather that than a amber or yellow appearance.
    On Monday 12/20 the installer will be doing the grout. I’m trying to decide between 511 Impregnator or Dupont Stone Tech Professional Enhancer as a sealer as that is what my installer uses. I have a sample tile of each, but don’t know how to determine what the overall look will be.
    1. It doesn’t appear the Dupont enhancer will greatly change this tile, but will it yellow or amber over time?
    2. Will the Dupont enhancer give a shiney appearance?
    3. If I don’t like the Dupont enhancer one on, could I use the 511 Impregnator for sealiing next tiime or sand the tile and apply 511?
    Any pros/cons you can suggest would be appreciated.
    Thanks much in advance for your response.
    Bev


  63. December 21st, 2010 at 5:55 pm

    Can I have honed granite (gray) polished that is already installed in my kitchen? If so, is it expensive?


  64. January 29th, 2011 at 3:25 pm

    We want to use Carpe Diem on our countertops and island…the slabs are beautiful but seem more porous than others do you think too much mica? would you not use? we never have had granite should we instead look toward quartz?


  65. February 4th, 2011 at 7:28 pm

    Hi Tom,

    We are looking at Lennon Antique in the honed finish for our kitchen countertops. We like the look of it not being so shiny. We are considering white cabinets. Do you recommend this type of finish for the kitchen?

    Tracie


  66. February 13th, 2011 at 2:27 pm

    What are the pros and cons of care, use, and impact of a glossy black kitchen countertop? What makes them work, what makes them look dreadful and dark?
    I am considering quart, Pental’s Chroma line, in Galaxy Polished (it is really a light black base with shiny dark chips of true black and some amber as well, which give it dimension and make it a bit less black in effect.) My cabinets are red birch stained to a cinnamon type color, the floor will be camel color Marmoleum. Natural light is from the east side (all windows) only. House is mid-century contemporary.


  67. February 14th, 2011 at 12:59 pm

    would honed absolute granite be good for the floor. we are trying to achieve a tropical look. we saw a beautiful floor at the Ritz in Kapalua that looked honed.
    any help would be awesome!

    Kimbelry


  68. February 25th, 2011 at 2:36 pm

    Tom,
    I have uba tuba polished granite in my kitchen. I do not like the polished look and am interested in having it honed. Can this be done on site after the granite is installed? Would appreciate your advice or knowledge of such being done.
    Thanks,
    Shawn


  69. March 4th, 2011 at 12:10 am

    what do you think of antique brown granite honed (re: maintenance)?


  70. March 23rd, 2011 at 10:11 pm

    I have just installed a honed granite countertop in my kitchen. The color is Golden Sun. I would like a recommendation on what to seal it with. Thank you! Marj


  71. April 2nd, 2011 at 2:32 pm

    I have just fallen in love with typhoon bordeaux granite for my kitchen and saw the honed version at a local granite distributor. The slabs have more white with very limited yellow in them and I’m considering using the honed version (although I really like the polished too). Are there any recommendations you would make for caring of the type of granite? Preferred types of sealer? Any recommendation would be greatly appreciated.


  72. April 7th, 2011 at 11:10 pm

    Just had honed uba tuba granite installed. Is it supposed to look scratchy all over? My decorator says that is the way it is supposed to look. I expected it to have a smooth, not shiny appearance but did not expect all the scratch marks. she called it a”brushed” look.
    Is there any way to make them go away??!!


  73. April 11th, 2011 at 10:54 am

    I’m replacing my laminate countertops with granite. I’ve selected Santa Cecilia and would prefer it honed. Is this going to be a maintenance nightmare? Does it have to be sealed? If so, how often does it have to be redone and what product should be used? I have a friend who put in Typhoon Bordeaux honed granite countertops in her new home last September – they are beautiful and she has not sealed them and she has no staining or other maintenance issues. Some advice please.


  74. May 23rd, 2011 at 7:02 am

    What are your thoughts on absolute balck- brushed finish w/ a black stain sealer? Sample looks pretty good, but not sure about durability of applied stain sealer.
    __________
    REPLY
    __________
    Always use Bullet Proof sealer installed by a professional for absolute Black granite in brushed or honed finish. Good luck. Very difficult to get it right.
    Tom Cordova


  75. June 6th, 2011 at 11:45 pm

    I have Cosmo Leather granite and would like to know if it is save to use an Epoxy sealant?


  76. June 7th, 2011 at 5:59 pm

    We have picked titanium black leather granite for our kitchen counter tops. I was told that the leathering will be hard to maintain. I know it needs to be sealed but is there that much more work than polished finish? Will it be a big deal?


  77. June 13th, 2011 at 7:03 pm

    I have selected Cambrian black riverwashed, would we encounter the same issues as a honed finish on black absoulte.

    Many Thanks,

    Jennica


  78. June 16th, 2011 at 5:52 am

    Hi Tom:

    How is the Cambrian Black granite in either honed or brushed finish in terms of wear and maintenance. The salesperson highly recommends it as an alternative to soapstone.

    Thank you very much!


  79. July 20th, 2011 at 10:24 pm

    We had Cambrian Black Granite installed last week in our kitchen. The coutertop slab arrived with at least two huge oil looking type stains on it. The installers tried to remove the stains with a blow torch and spraying it with water. I was horrified to watch. Steam was coming out of my countertop as they did this for close to ten minutes. With this procedure compromise the integrity of the granite countertop. Did this weaken the granite. I am very worried and need expert advise.
    Thank you.


  80. July 20th, 2011 at 10:30 pm

    I also have another concern. We were told my the granite seller. We should not stand on the granite countertop. Even a child of 45 pounds that is trying to get some cookies from the countertop could damage the granite.

    Well I had every intention of standing on our granite top to paint our kitchen whenever we wanted as often as we wanted; to line cabinets with contact paper; to clean and reach upper cabinets. So now what. They never mentioned this before we made our purchase.

    Please advise.


  81. August 15th, 2011 at 11:23 pm

    Are there cheaper leathered/antiqued/brushed granites with the same look as Cambrian Black? I was looking at a polished granite in Group B but decided on Cambrian Black in antiqued or leathered – group F. Big price difference!
    Thanks so much! I’ve never spent this much $$ in my life and am nervous about my choice.
    Nancy


  82. August 18th, 2011 at 5:29 pm

    Hi , Tom,
    I installed to a customer Black absolute granite honed finish counter tops and before we cut the granite we used blue tape to make lines for cuts, now once it is installed we can see lines of stain from blue tape. How do I remove these lines? Thank you !


  83. August 18th, 2011 at 6:38 pm

    We are thinking about purchasing the color style of granite called via appia. Has anyone used this granite before? Thanks


  84. September 8th, 2011 at 5:48 am

    What do you think about the upkeep of honed granite == silver pearl? (bathroom)

    How will honing persa avorio change its appearance?

    thanks.


  85. September 11th, 2011 at 9:14 am

    I am looking for a black granite and have looked at black pearl and cambrian black. Can you tell me which one would be a better choice in terms of forgiving stains and marks and that works with soft bluish green blue.


  86. September 22nd, 2011 at 9:20 am

    Do you know anything about Antartide and or Luna di Luna Quartzite? It was suggested as a ‘marble alternative’ without the worry of etching and staining. Thank you. Louise


  87. October 7th, 2011 at 12:20 pm

    I am considering absolute black granite for kitche counter..if only polished and seaked will it propose a smudging and glass markings. Thank yous are in order also what edge would be best for contempoary kitcken small Bank of black cabinets with aluminum coloured arborite coumter . Geri


  88. October 11th, 2011 at 12:46 pm

    Tom,
    We are in the process of remodeling our kitchen. It will have white cabints, stainless applicances, & white sub-way tile backspash. I wanted to use “Black Absolute” granite, but after reading some of your comments, I don’t want to have the nightmare maintenance issue. I like the look of classic 1930-40’s era kitchens with the black and white theme. Our home is southern-traditional and I would like to continue that into the kitchen. The flooring will also be replaced. Any suggestions other than tile?
    Thank you,
    Connie


  89. October 18th, 2011 at 1:31 pm

    I see all these high maintenance nightmare remarks on honed black granite. Are they still relevant or has something been accomplished through the years to enable us to have honed black granite in our kitchens? I have been looking at putting this granite in my newly purchased/currently being renovated townhouse, but I am being “scared off” with all these comments.


  90. October 22nd, 2011 at 2:00 pm

    we are building a new home……like absoloute black granite……some samples we have viewed have a nice shine…..others actually look like they have little shine. Should I ask for a “polished” surface so they look good in the kitchen please? The cabinet color is walnut 2000 stain on alder.

    thank you so much,
    Ralph Tucker


  91. October 22nd, 2011 at 5:37 pm

    We are interested in getting titanium black granite countertops in leathere finish but after researching the internet I worry about maintenance; staining, etc. Is this a good choice for us or should we go with another choice?


  92. October 24th, 2011 at 8:28 am

    We are in the process of deciding on which type of counter top to choose for our kitchen. We have canvas/cream cottage style cabinets, medium to dark hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances and hood. We love soapstone but can’t touch the price. We love hardwood, but think it may not be enough of a contrast with the hardwood floors< and husband is worried about upkeep. We fell in love with Riverwashed Absolute Black granite. We love texture and no shine.It just looks so old fashioned and warm. Our other runners-up are Black Pearl granite(not crazy about shine), and Night Mist Silestone Quartz(may look a little too contemporary though). Any guidance you can give us would be helpful.
    Thanks,
    Michele and Jim


  93. October 24th, 2011 at 10:36 am

    we are considering leathered finished via lattea granite (blackish gray color with some taupe and white). after reading many sites, i dont think i should color enhance it but i think i should seal it. what is your opinion? we have an option to get it honed instead of leather finish. not sure which one to do, but the honed sample looks shinier (shows more fingerptints?) and is supposedly more porous so we are leaning towards leather finished. i veered away from white quartzite because i was worried about staining (especially red wine)…but now i am afraid i am getting into a different type of nightmare where my counters will etch and have oil and streak marks on it. thanks for your help. nancy


  94. October 24th, 2011 at 1:58 pm

    Tom -

    Are Brushed Absolute Black and Flamed Absolute Black the same thing? I’m getting conflicting answers and want to be sure I know what I’m getting in this regard.

    Thanks,
    Matt


  95. October 24th, 2011 at 8:07 pm

    My Dad just had granite counter tops put in about a year ago. I don’t know the name of the color but Dad says they are dark brown and about five months ago he noticed that the color along the edge started to turn a very light color. Width of the color change is 2.5″. He had the installer come and inspect, but he said it was due to my Dad using glass cleaner (Windex) to clean the counters. Is this true and if so how can my Dad remedy this discoloration?


  96. October 25th, 2011 at 10:19 am

    I have brushed absolute black granite in my kitchen. When we purchased our house the countertops were new and shiny. Over time, the counter tops have developed a number of gray dull spots that I assume are stains. Can the countertops be resealed to bring back uniformity of color and shine?


  97. October 29th, 2011 at 3:51 pm

    I am trying to decide between absolute black river washed granite, soapstone(the hardest one) and honed quartz in chroma coastal grey. Which do you think will hold up the best?


  98. November 30th, 2011 at 8:28 pm

    We love the look of our new leathered black pearl granite, however we have had problems with chipping, at the sink and at the island. I try to be very careful working in the kitchen, I have just recently noticed another nick in the island and I don’t know how this is happening. I am the only cook in the house. I don’t bang it with anything, or hit it with anything, I don’t know why or how it’s happening but it’s very discouraging because I love to cook but I am getting very frustrated by this.


  99. December 1st, 2011 at 7:09 pm

    Tom,

    I’m considering a 6′ x 5′ island using a honed Virginia Mist. The yard tells me an enhancer will darken it, which we want, while also protecting it against fingerprints.

    A countertop shop applied enhancer to half of the sample the yard gave me. A few days later, it had faded away. I was told I just need a couple more coats.

    1) Does an enhancer permanently darken the slab and truly protect against fingerprints? How often does it have to be applied and is there a special type that has to be used? Is this any sealant, or a special type of enhancer?

    2) If my slab is 3 cm, and my overhang is only 9 inches, can I avoid having to strengthen the granite with steel rods? Should I be concerned about the white veins in the slab being weaker than the rest of the slab? I won’t need to do any mitering with the edges.

    Many thanks and much appreciated,
    Maureen


  100. December 13th, 2011 at 8:58 pm

    I need to know the best glue down for White marble because using LIQUID NAIL and spots showed through i told my boss about using Flex set a two part epoxy but he does not want to use it for some reason but i would like to know whats going to keep white marble from showing spots


  101. January 14th, 2012 at 2:34 pm

    i am about to put granite in or master bathroom and kitchen. My color i choose was yellow river and or yellow river leather. the leather is my favorite, its not slick or smooth. Have you heard of anyone using yelloow river leather and not being happy with it. Thank you. Vicki


  102. January 16th, 2012 at 11:37 pm

    Hi Tom, I am shopping for new granite countertops and new backsplash. My cabinets are the original honey oak, my appliences are stainless steal except for a black dishwasher, and black ceramic stove top. I loved the honed finish black granite, but am afraid of fingerprints. Giallo Veneziano is one of my choices, but am afraid with the grains of the oak ( which show) in my cabinets it may look to busy, my other fear is that they will blend and look to similar. My second choice is Black pearl, or another black granite, until I showed it to friends who thought it may look to dark, since my kitchen is not very large. I have been thinking of a cream to light beige for the backsplash, do you agree? I plan on changing the walls to deep beige. My floor will probably be changed in 6-12 months, can you please give me some suggestions on that too, right now I have a vinyl floor which is off white.

    Thanks in advance for your help,
    Ileen


  103. January 23rd, 2012 at 10:28 am

    I am looking into getting Honed Virginia Mist. I have read some of your other comments but I was wondering if it is sealed properly, will the finger marks from little kids stay on the surface. Also if oil is spilled on the granite would it be easily wiped away. Is there a specific daily cleaner that you would recommend. What type of sealer is the best for this type of granite and how do I know my installer put the correct type of sealer on the granite? What sorts of questions should I be asking? Do most installers give you a warranty on the granite? Would you recommend me going with another type of granite since I have little kids? Thanks so much for all your advice.


  104. January 26th, 2012 at 9:18 am

    I am looking to have a granite called andhara green honed is this a good stone to hone?


  105. January 28th, 2012 at 4:42 pm

    I am interested in granite called Via Lactea in a leather finish. I am extremely concerned about it spotting around the sink and stove. Any suggestions or ?


  106. February 12th, 2012 at 2:37 pm

    Hi,

    I am looking to source a piece of granite from Innovative Stone in their Mystical Collection called Callisto. We are adding on to a center island, had our kitchen done in 2008 and have learned that this granite is no longer available. Could the name be different?? It looks alot like honed cambrian black granite. Any guidance would be appreciated.


  107. February 27th, 2012 at 9:52 am

    I want to put honed wild sea in my kitchen.will that hold up against stains, hot items etc.?


  108. March 8th, 2012 at 4:27 pm

    We’re remodeling small (8′x9′) galley kitchen with light natural or honey maple cabinets, stainless sink and appliances. Thinking of using dark/black based granite countertop. Concern is keeping clean. No small children, but plenty of animals in the house and large children! Flooring not yet selected, but will not be too dark due to small size of room. Dining area at end of kitchen, all will be painted we’re thinking a pale blue. Should we think of going lighter on the countertop? I don’t like veiny granite and would consider quartz, although family pushing towards granite. This is such a huge expense, I want to do it right and want to like it for years and years to come!


  109. March 9th, 2012 at 12:23 pm

    I am considering polished via lattea for my kitchen. I took a small piece which had chipped off the slab. The piece crumbles easily. Is this granite less hard than others? This piece was from one of the white veins.


  110. March 10th, 2012 at 5:34 am

    I have shiny granite counters now (Ubatuba) I hate it, can they be honed in place and what is the process for this? Please I can’t stand the look of shiny tops they are a dust magnet and finger prints like crazy.


  111. March 24th, 2012 at 8:02 pm

    It is a young stone. High maintenance.

    Best,
    Tom


  112. March 24th, 2012 at 8:05 pm

    No. Work on your dust problem instead, I suggest.

    Tom


  113. May 6th, 2012 at 4:14 pm

    Hi Tom,
    My contractor did a fabulous job installing a pre sealed, honed peach travertine with ogee and pencil and rope trim to my kitchen countertops and I adored the natural, subtle stone effect which looked antique and in keeping with my old adobe home….. until he persuaded me to apply a stone enhancer, which was oil based and turned the travertine a garish salmon and added a semi gloss which I absolutely hate.
    This would be amazingly beautiful in a modern home or in a home on one of the coasts, but, it is absolutely wrong in Santa Fe.
    I spoke to the people at Arizona Tile who advised that as long as he uses an enhancer remover made by the same company which made the enhancer and follows the directions, the stone will revert to the color and texture they were when originally installed and will not harm the travertine or grout, but, I have been reading horror stories from owners who have had nothing but nightmares trying to remove color enhancers.
    Could you please tell me what the best way, assuming there is one, is to restore the travertine and get it back to its’ original subtle, honed color and texture is?
    Any help you can provide would be a Godsend.
    Thanks,
    Caroline


  114. May 8th, 2012 at 1:21 pm

    We are considering Cambrain Black Antique granite. Is it hard to keep clean like honed Absolute Black or does the texture help?


  115. May 15th, 2012 at 10:16 am

    We have an “open concept” condo with a natural cherry raised panel door style in the kitchen. The floors are natural oak and applicances are black. My furnishings are traditional, with most being dark cherry and mahogany. The kitchen does not get a lot of light. Currently there is ubba tubba granite with 6in blacksplash and I hate it. I love greens and had verde maritaca in a previous kitchen that I loved. I want to stay in the green family, but want to go lighter. I gravitate to the granites that have more movement in the stone, rather than a finely grained stone. What can you suggest?