Why Choose Granite?
Second only to diamonds, granite stone is one of hardest substances in the world. It is one of the premier choices for both flooring and countertops, as well as an array of other features such as fireplaces. Each piece of natural stone is both utilitarian and an art piece.
Exotic Granite
Granite is a natural stone material that is popular used to create countertops; however, what was once a luxury item has become the standard feature in homes, so it is easy to forget that granite has exotic origins. Thus, in selecting a rare and exotic variety of granite for your home, you can create a variety of eye-catching areas that can re-excite and freshen up your home.
One exotic variety of granite is Azul Bahia, and it is quarried out of Bahia, a state in Brazil. This semiprecious bedrock granite has a distinguishing blue hue and widespread veining. Because it is a natural stone, no two pieces will look alike and the coloring will undoubtedly vary between pieces. So, it is important that you make sure you see exactly which piece you are receiving prior to it being installed in your home.
Why Choose Onyx
Even though onyx is rare and expensive, there is no denying that this natural stone’s beauty. Onyx comes in a variety of colors and with its veining; the colors are contrasted naturally as well as the pattern. When hit with a light source, onyx seems to glow; this is why many contractors and designers choose to backlight onyx slabs for an added aesthetic appeal.
Exotic Onyx
Onyx is not as hearty, in terms of strength, as granite; thus, when it is quarried it becomes more difficult to extract intact pieces, therefore this attributes to the higher price point. Although, if you are seeking smaller pieces of onyx it will be more affordable and easier to acquire; but be wary onyx is a softer stone so it was easy to scratch and etch.
Now, large slabs of this exotic stone are not the only scale for acquisition, as stated previously. The best, and most commonly applied, use of onyx is through small tiles in utilization of a backsplash.
But, if you are looking to purchase a larger quarry piece for panels, bars, or bathrooms, two smaller slabs of onyx can be joined “seamlessly” in order to provide full and even coverage of the area and give the appearance of a larger piece.
As a side note: Onyx should be thought of as a decorative piece rather than a work surface due to its soft and fragile nature. Also, onyx needs to be sealed and cleaned at frequent intervals with a special stone cleaner.
Work With Alair Homes
If you are in need of, or are ready to start planning your remodel, contact Alair Homes. With service locations in Maple Ridge, Alair Homes can help you improve your home or business by building or renovating.
Whatever your reasons are for the build or improvements, Alair Homes will respect your wishes and reasoning. You deserve a contractor that delivers you the transparency you deserve as well as giving you an added peace of mind from the project’s beginning to its end.