Leathered Granite: A Fabricator’s Guide

Leathered granite is the new star in the world of interior design and fabrication. We finish leather on almost all types of granite and marble, and it also enhances the appearance of some quartzites and slates.. As a fabricator / home owner, you might be familiar with various stone finishes, but this is a trend worth exploring. In this article, we will delve into the world of stones, its unique characteristics, benefits, and how it can transform your interior projects.

What does Leathered Granite mean?

Leathered granite is a distinctive finish that adds depth and texture to the stone’s natural beauty. Unlike the high-gloss shine of polished granite, it undergoes a unique process that gives it a matte, slightly textured appearance. This finish enhances the stone’s rich color and pattern variations, resulting in a rustic and inviting aesthetic.

Materials and Tools Needed:

• Leathering Brushes: Specialized abrasive brushes designed to create the leathered texture on the stone surface.
• Safety Gear: Safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask to protect yourself from the dust and debris generated during the process.
• Diamond Pads: Various grits of these pads are used to prepare the surface and remove any existing polish.
• Water Source: A constant supply of water is essential for cooling the tools and keeping dust to a minimum.

Step-by-Step Process:

• Safety Precautions: Begin by donning your safety gear, including safety goggles, ear protection, and a dust mask. Safety is paramount when working with material and the tools involved.
• Preparation: Start with a clean and dry stone surface. To expose the natural stone, you need to remove any existing polish from the material. Use diamond pads with a lower grit (e.g., 50-grit) to grind off the polish. Make sure to keep the surface wet during this process to minimize dust and prevent overheating.
• Brush Selection: Choose the appropriate leathering brush for the job. Leathering brushes come in different coarseness levels, and the choice depends on the desired texture and the stone’s hardness. For harder materials, you might need a more aggressive brush.
• Leathering Process: Attach the leathering brush to a stone polishing machine, making sure it’s securely fastened. The process involves running the machine over the surface in a systematic manner, similar to how you would polish it. The leathering brush will create the desired texture as it rotates over the stone. The direction in which you move the machine can impact the final texture, so be consistent.
• Consistent Pressure: Apply consistent pressure as you move the machine, ensuring that the leathering brush maintains contact with the surface. This pressure helps to create an even leathered texture across the entire surface.
• Water Flow: Ensure a constant flow of water during the leathering process to keep the surface cool and minimize dust. The water also helps wash away the debris created by the brushes.
• Inspect and Repeat: Periodically stop the machine to inspect the stone’s surface. Depending on the coarseness of the brush and the material’s hardness, you may need to pass over the surface multiple times to achieve the desired leathered finish.
• Rinse and Dry: Once you’re satisfied with the leathered finish, thoroughly rinse the stone surface to remove any remaining debris. Allow it to dry completely before sealing or applying any protective coatings if desired.
• Sealing (Optional): Depending on the project and client preferences, you can choose to seal the leathered granite / marble surface to enhance its durability and stain resistance. Be sure to use a granite / marble -specific sealer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Unique Aesthetics

This Granite finishing stands out for its one-of-a-kind appearance. The textured finish creates depth and visual interest, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate unique, non-traditional design elements.

Durability

Just like other granite finishes, the leathered finishing is incredibly durable. It resists scratches, heat, and stains, making it an ideal selection for high-traffic areas such as kitchen countertops.

Low Maintenance

Despite its textured appearance, it is surprisingly easy to clean and maintain. Regular care involves a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap, keeping its allure intact.

Non-Reflective

Unlike polished granite, it does not reflect light in the same way. This makes it an excellent choice for spaces where glare or excessive shine is undesirable.

Hides Imperfections

Leathered granite is great at concealing smudges, fingerprints, and water spots, allowing you to maintain a clean and elegant look with minimal effort.

Kitchen Countertops

Leathered granite has gained popularity as a unique choice for kitchen countertops. Its texture adds character to the space, making it more inviting and distinctive.

Bathroom Vanities

Elevate your bathroom space with granite countertops. The textured surface and natural aesthetics create a spa-like ambiance, and its durability ensures long-lasting beauty.

Fireplace Surrounds

A leathered fireplace surround can serve as a striking focal point in a living room or bedroom. The texture and visual depth add warmth and elegance to any space.

Outdoor Applications

Leathered granite extends beyond interior spaces.. It’s a fantastic choice for outdoor applications like patio countertops or poolside surfaces, thanks to its resistance to the elements.

Leathering involves utilizing various tools and mechanisms to create a unique granite texture. Compared to conventional polished or honed finishes, opting for leathered granite typically incurs an additional cost of $4 to $5 per square meter, or roughly 50 cents per square foot. This price differential reflects the value added by the distinctive tactile and aesthetic qualities of leathered granite. Its textured surface enhances the natural beauty of the stone, making it a favored choice for those seeking a visually appealing and distinctive option for countertops and other granite applications.

Leathered granite, with its unique and textured surface, has become an invaluable element in modern architecture and design. In conclusion, its importance in contemporary architectural endeavors cannot be overstated.

First and foremost, leathered granite offers architects and designers a versatile material that can be incorporated into a wide range of projects. Its distinctive finish adds character and depth to countertops, flooring, wall cladding, and more. This adaptability makes it a valuable choice for both residential and commercial spaces.

Furthermore, leathered granite’s rise in popularity is closely tied to the demand for more tactile and sensory experiences in design. In a world dominated by sleek, minimalistic aesthetics, leathered granite provides a refreshing contrast by engaging the senses through its touchable surface. This textural element adds a sense of warmth and individuality to spaces, making them more inviting and appealing to the modern sensibility.

Additionally, leathered granite is celebrated for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. In a world where sustainability and longevity are paramount concerns, this material provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution for architects and their clients.

In summary, leathered granite’s importance in modern architecture is underscored by its versatility, sensory appeal, and durability. Architects and designers alike recognize it as a crucial tool in creating visually stunning, functional, and enduring spaces in the contemporary world.