Considerations
Polished granite can be very slippery when wet, posing a significant safety hazard. It is a very heavy material, requiring strong structural support and professional installation, which can increase costs.
Stone × Application
Granite — steps stairs
Granite stairs are exceptionally durable, highly resistant to abrasion, scratching, and impact, making them ideal for high-traffic areas in both residential and commercial settings. They are also weather-resistant for exterior use.
Specifications
- Finish: Flamed, Bush-hammered, or Sandblasted finishes are highly recommended for stair treads to ensure superior slip resistance. Polished finishes can be used for risers or in very low-traffic, dry areas.
- Thickness: 3 cm to 5 cm for treads to ensure structural integrity and durability under concentrated load. Risers can be 2 cm thick.
- ASTM: ASTM C615/C615M (Standard Specification for Granite Dimension Stone) for material characteristics. Abrasion resistance (ASTM C241/C241M) and flexural strength (ASTM C880/C880M) are critical for stair applications. DCOF testing is essential.
- Maintenance: Low to Medium (requires regular cleaning. Sealing is generally not critical but can be applied for added protection, especially for exterior use).
- Installed: $80-$350/linear ft or $120-$500/step (material and installation costs vary significantly based on granite type, complexity of design, and labor).
Top varieties
Absolute Black GraniteTan Brown GraniteCaledonia Granite