A Stone of Diversity - Granite

Granite has been in use for thousands of years. It’s used for a variety of things – as a construction material, in architecture, interior design, decoration, sculpting and also in manufacturing many different products. 

If you stop and think about it, you can probably think of buildings, streets and monuments where granite is the main material. It’s attractive in homes too – tiles, counter tops and polished granite slabs. It lends elegance to a project, so it is much sought after and it never goes out of style. 

What is granite? 

The actual definition of granite varies. If you ask a rock expert or geologist, they will tell you that granite is a coarse grained igneous rock that is made up of crystals. It is also listed as quartz and feldspar bearing. Many rocks such as syenite, gabbro, monzonite and anorthosite are sold as granite as they have interlocking crystals that are large enough to be seen by the eye, but these aren’t exactly granite. 

What is granite used in? 

·        Kitchen counter tops

One of the most popular uses of granite in this country is in kitchen counters. Increased demand over the past few decades has meant that many kitchen contractors have had to acquire extra expertise to install granite counter tops. You can have a custom counter made from a solid slab of granite, so it will be unique to your home. Although this sounds very expensive, the fact that it is in so much demand now means that the prices are more reasonable. 

·        Back splashes

Along with solid slab countertops, granite tiles can be used to create colourful, durable spaces to cook and clean. As they are so easy to clean, they work well for sinks and food preparation areas. They also work well in places where there is any messy work going on. 

·        Bathrooms

You’ll often see granite used in modern bathrooms, whether for the walls or the floors. They provide a high shine that makes the space look very upmarket and expensive. Granite tiles are a much sought after material in home renovation projects. 

·        Roads

The most basic used of granite is in road and motorway construction. Crushed granite is used as a base material due to its durability. 

·        Foundations

Crushed granite is also used as a foundation for construction projects and even sewage systems! 

·        Headstones

If you visit any graveyard in the country, you’ll likely see both old and new headstones made from marble. It wears well with time and it also weathers well. It is associated with permanence so it works well as a lasting memorial to a loved one. 

·        Monuments

One of the most famous uses of granite is Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, USA. This stone wasn’t even quarried; the tribute to George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln was carved directly into the mountain. 

These are just a selection of uses for this diverse stone, you can find it in kerbs, parks and bridges too! 

Family-run Quarry 

William Thompson & Son are a major player in the quarry industry in Scotland, but have maintained a friendly attitude that our customers love. Give us a call on 01389 762271 and we’ll be happy to tell you about granite and our other quarry products.