Granite has long been one of the favorite choices of both professional and non-professional remodelers due to its wide range of colors and durability. This natural stone can be used in a wide range of areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, patios, and gardens.
No matter where you choose to install it, there’s no question that granite is an excellent choice.
When people come in looking for granite countertops, one of the most common questions we get is if there’s a difference between granite tile and slab countertops, the answer to this is yes; there are quite a few differences. Two of these differences are how they look and how easy they are to install.
Chances are, if you’re reading this article, you’re trying to choose between tile and slab countertops. If this is the case, then continue reading, and we’ll provide you with the information you need to make the best choice.
What is Granite Tile?
Granite tiles are individually cut pieces of granite slab. These are thinner and lighter than granite slabs because they are cut into small pieces. They take a while to be installed because they need to be aligned perfectly. These tiles come in a wide variety of patterns and designs.
What is Granite Slab?
Granite slabs are pieces of slab cut directly from stone and are custom cut so that they fit on your kitchen or bathroom countertops. These slabs come in a wide variety of textures and designs; you can even purchase slabs in polished, flamed, leather, lapatro, brushed, bush-hammered, or sandblasted finishes.
Granite slabs are highly durable and easy to take care of. These slabs are easy to install, and because they are installed by multiple workers, they typically don’t take more than a day. They are also resistant to stains and scratches.
Differences Between Granite Slab and Granite Tile
There’s no argument that both granite slab and tile are beautiful. With their rich tones and various textures, it can make any area of your home look more luxurious, and with the wide range of colors, you’re sure to find one you love. But as stated above, there are some differences you should be aware of before deciding between the two.
● Installation – while slabs are quite a bit heavier and can be more delicate during the installation process, they only require one-time installation. Since it’s in a single piece, professionals can quickly fit and secure it, so it takes a much shorter time than tiles.
Granite tiles are lighter than slabs and smaller, so only one worker can install them. Plus, they have to piece together several small pieces at a time, which takes longer. Installation experts will inspect each piece to ensure they are free from imperfections. The tiles also need to be perfectly aligned, and with the mix and match patterns, they have to be matched together to give your countertop a cohesive look.
● Appearance – Granite tiles are more uniform in appearance than granite slabs. This is because granite slabs are cut into smaller pieces, so there aren’t as many continuous patterns and designs.
● Durability – Granite slabs are dense and extremely durable, meaning while they aren’t immune to cracks or scratches, they are highly resistant to them. On the other hand, Tiles are not as thick and are more prone to bubbles or air pockets under the tile, and they may not be able to support heavyweights.
● Ease of Care – Granite tile requires grout to hold it in place; the grout can become stained and grimy from frequent use, so you have to clean it more often. If this isn’t done on a regular basis, food particles, grit, and other items will get between the grout and tiles.
Granite slabs are cut to fit, and grout is needed to bind them together and hold them in place. Both of these materials do require resealing every two years.
Granite tiles will require deep professional cleaning of the grout in addition to daily cleaning. Slab countertops only need a damp microfiber cloth to keep them clean.
Reach Out to Our Countertop Specialists
If, even after reading about the differences between granite tiles and slabs, you’re still having trouble deciding, remember, in the end, it’s your choice. If you need additional help choosing, you can always reach out to us. Our team of professionals will work with you to determine which type best suits your needs based on your budget and the look you want.
Texas Granite Group in The Austin area specializes in fabricating and installing the most amazing granite, marble and quartz countertops for your kitchen, bathroom and anywhere else indoors and out.
We can custom design your kitchen and bathroom countertops to achieve an incredible appearance. We have installed hundreds of countertops in homes and businesses throughout Texas with the highest quality product that continuously stands out in beauty and function.
Want to learn more about stone countertops or our renovation services? Visit our countertop showroom and speak with a design specialist today, Free!