Understanding the Basics of Granite Slabs

Learn About Granite Slabs

So you’ve decided to remodel your kitchen and have been hearing a lot about granite: granite countertops, granite tiles and granite slabs. Now you’ve begun to realize that you don’t really know much about granite. You know it’s rock, but where does it come from and how does it end up in your kitchen?

Let’s answer some of the questions about granite slabs Houston homeowners may have when planning a remodeling project.

Where Granite Slabs Originate

Granite Countertop Slabs in Yard

Granite is a type of rock that formed early in Earth’s history when molten materials began to cool and harden. Wherever quartz, mica and feldspar melted together and cooled, we now have granite. Granite is also spiced with a variety of trace minerals. These trace minerals give granite the different colors and patterns that make it such an attractive material for use in your home.

Granite may be quarried from underground deposits or removed from mountains. The huge chunks of raw stone are shaped into rough blocks which are then sliced into slabs. Did you know that granite has a grain, like wood? It can be split lengthwise but must be cut crosswise.

The slabs from each block are carefully numbered in sequence, labeled and kept together throughout the journey to their ultimate destination. This lets us have matched slabs available to match across seams.

The granite slabs Houston remodelers use may be from the U.S., or they may have come from as far away as India, Italy or Brazil. They typically ship in matched bundles of polished slabs.

Available sizes of granite slabs

The size of a granite slab is dependent upon the size of the original block, but as a general rule they are from 4 to 6 feet deep and from 7 to 10 feet wide. For a rough estimate when you’re planning a project, consider a 9-by-5 slab typical. In the Houston market, slabs are usually 2 cm thick.

In case it isn’t obvious: Working with granite slabs is not a DIY project. They are large, heavy, expensive and breakable. Leave it to the professionals!

Let Traditional Designs Help With Your Remodeling Today

When you’ve decided that granite is right for you, drop by Traditional Designs and let us show you our huge selection. We can help you choose a color and pattern with enough matching slabs to complete your project. We can also help you choose the edge that you want for your countertop. We offer over a dozen, from a basic squared edge, to a rounded edge, to a double-thick edge for a high-end look. Call us now at

and let us help install your granite to your home today!

Understanding the Basics of Granite Slabs | Traditional Designs Ltd

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