Honed Black Granite
I work for a remodeler in Tucson Arizona and one of our Clients wants to use Black Absolute in their new kitchen. Our concern is that they want it honed. What is the porosity of honed versus polished? And how long does sealent last on honed? Does honed granite have a better chance of staining or scratching? Thanks for your help. - Michelle
Dear Michelle,
You are very wise to as this question. In my 17 years of experience, I found Honed Black Granite to be the worse customer experience. I know that it tends to be a specific request from homeowners wanting a contemporary design and usually it is combined with a white subway tile splash. However, meeting the client’s long-range expectations is very difficult because of maintenance.
First let’s look at the problems with polished Black Absolute Granite. It shows even the slightest dust marks and it doesn’t show ants! That is creates a daily cleaning and perhaps even a health issue. Now then, when this stone is honed the pores are opened slightly and everything from oily thumb prints to common kitchen liquids love to get under the surface and stay there. Because it is honed, it requires more sealer. However, even the sealer will make the granite look hazy because it is hone and flat black and absorbs at different levels throughout the counter top. Furthermore, try to remove the sealer or a stain and it is like cleaning pen out of leather. The spot will never look like the rest of the counter again.
Trust me, don’t do Honed Black Granite. I strongly believe that it will only lead to dissatisfaction for everyone.
Best wishes,
Tom Cordova
October 5th, 2006 at 5:33 am
Hi,
I’m in the process of redoing a fireplace, and am trying to figure out which natural stone to use. The fireplace is a wood burning unit. We plan on using a 6-8″ surround with the hearth. I need something that is durable. I’ve ruled soapstone out because of the green veins that through the stone. I want to use a honed black granite, but my husband wants to use slate. He likes the rustic look of the stone, but I’m afraid that it looks too blue. Everyone that I have spoken with tells me that it scratches very easy, and that I’d be disappointed with it in the long run.
What’s your advice for someone looking for a produce that is durable, easy to keep clean, and will give years of lasting statisfaction? I’ll look forward to your input, and appreciate your time, Melanie
February 10th, 2007 at 8:44 am
Hello:
We were referred to you, and I would like to ask if it is possible to put a polish or a high polish on honed granite. We had honed Absolute Black installed a couple of weeks ago, and it is a nightmare.
Any suggestions?
Many thanks.
Patti