Granite benchtop, various thicknesses & finishes (20mm, 30mm, 40mm)
Granite is a coarse-grained igneous rock composed primarily of quartz (20-60%), feldspar (65%), and mica minerals, formed through the slow crystallisation of magma beneath Earth's surface. As a benchtop material, granite offers superior hardness (6-7 Mohs scale), excellent heat resistance (up to 350°C), and natural resistance to scratching and staining when properly sealed. Available in hundreds of colour variations from light whites and greys to deep blacks and exotic patterns, each slab features unique natural veining and crystalline structures. Standard thicknesses of 20mm, 30mm, and 40mm accommodate various design requirements and structural considerations.
- Kitchen benchtops and island surfaces
- Bathroom vanity tops
- Outdoor kitchen and BBQ areas
- Commercial food preparation surfaces
- Laboratory benchtops
- Reception desks and commercial counters
- Bar tops and servery areas
- Splash backs and wall cladding
- Window sills and architectural features
- Hospitality and healthcare surfaces
Granite has been used as a building material for millennia, with ancient Egyptian and Roman structures demonstrating its longevity. Modern granite benchtop fabrication began in the 1980s with the development of diamond tooling and CNC machinery. Australia's granite industry developed significantly from the 1990s, though imported stone now dominates the market. Brazilian exotic granites entered the Australian market in the 2000s, expanding colour options. Current trends favour honed and leathered finishes over traditional high polish, with waterfall edges and mitred joins showcasing advanced fabrication techniques. The material remains a benchmark for premium surface materials despite competition from engineered alternatives.
DISCLAIMER: This specification document is generated from the CLAD Materials Atlas Database. Information is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Values are typical and may vary by batch, manufacturer, and production run. Verify suitability for specific project applications independently.