Granite

What is Granite?

• Granite forms from magma that cools slowly deep underground.
• Slow cooling grows visible crystals of quartz, feldspar and mica.
• Blocks are quarried, sawn into slabs and polished.

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What do the experts say?

• NSI: Granite is typically heat resistant to about 480°F, though direct localized heat is discouraged; absorption is only 0.05%–0.40%. ^[1]
• NKBA: Granite is “a good workhorse countertop” for busy families; mid to darker colors help avoid staining. ^[2]
• NSI: Granite has long been used for exterior cladding and pavement thanks to its strength, abrasion resistance and superior weathering durability. ^[1]
• NAHB: In an NAHB survey of nearly 4,000 home buyers, 57% preferred granite or natural stone kitchen countertops. ^[3]

LEED & green building

• Natural stone is listed by LEED v4.1 as an inherently non-emitting source of VOCs, so granite without integral organic-based coatings can count toward the Low-Emitting Materials credit (sealers are evaluated separately). ^[4]
• Points from credits like this add up toward LEED Certified (40–49), Silver (50–59), Gold (60–79) or Platinum (80+). ^[5]

1. Natural Stone Institute – Granite
2. NKBA – Four Questions to Ask When Choosing Natural Stone Kitchen Countertops
3. NAHB Survey Outlines Top Trends in Kitchen and Bath (Contractor Magazine)
4. USGBC – LEED v4.1 Building Design and Construction (EQ Low-Emitting Materials; MR Building Product Disclosure and Optimization)
5. USGBC – LEED rating system (Certified 40–49, Silver 50–59, Gold 60–79, Platinum 80+ points)

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