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Did you know The Red Pyramid, the third largest pyramid in Egypt, is made of granite? The ancient Egyptians knew the value of granite, using it for buildings, for wall veneers, and door jambs. Granite is still a very popular building material today. You may be surprised to know how many places other than kitchens you can find granite today.

Kitchen Countertops and Bathroom Vanities

Probably one of the most recognized and popular uses for granite is the countertop. Found most often in kitchens and bathrooms, few would deny the luxury it adds to any room. Because granite is available in such an array of colors, it's suitable for both traditional and modern aesthetics. While granite countertops may initially be purchased for looks, the natural durability of the stone makes it perfect for kitchens and baths, retaining its good looks for years.

Granite Tile

While the granite slab look (one large piece of granite instead of many smaller ones) seems to be preferred by homeowners, granite tile is also used on countertops. Granite, in one piece or as tiles, is also a very popular backsplash. Granite makes a lasting impression used on other surfaces such as walls.

Granite for Construction

Granite can be used to build structures such as houses and bridges. It may not always look like it does on your kitchen countertops though. Some granite structures use the unpolished stone either for cost-effectiveness or looks. This may make granite less recognizable to most of us. They may use a combination of rough and finished stone on one or more sides. It is common to use a granite veneer on the outside of the larger buildings.

Paving and Curbing

Once upon a time, before asphalt and concrete, granite paved some city streets. Although we don't see much more of that anymore granite is still used for patios and for paving driveways. And while the streets may not be made of granite, you may notice the curbing on sidewalks. It is more attractive than concrete, and it's much more durable.

Monuments and Memorials

The Red Pyramid of ancient Egypt isn't the only massive monument made of granite. Mount Rushmore in S. Dakota.S.A., was carved directly out of the granite mountain.

Many memorial headstones and tombs are carved from granite. Aside from having a lasting quality, it's also an attractive way to honor loved ones.

This is just a summary of the uses of granite. As you can see, its functionality goes beyond counter tops. Granite has found a multitude of purposes from giant pyramids to curbing on the sidewalk. We will continue to utilize and admire this awesome and beautiful stone for many millenniums.

Granite As One Of The Best Building Materials

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