A Complete Engineering Overview of Granite Surface Finishes and Their Applications
The performance and beauty of granite depend on the way its surface is processed and finished. Each finish gives granite unique optical and mechanical properties that make it suitable for specific architectural needs.
Each granite surface from Aravali India Marbles & Granites is engineered for both design appeal and long-term performance. Whether it’s a high-gloss interior surface or a non-slip exterior texture, every finish is designed to enhance strength, safety, and beauty.
Polished Granite – Mirror-Like Surface with Enhanced Strength
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): ? 0.2 µm
Gloss Level: > 90 GU
Processing: Multi-stage diamond abrasive polishing up to 12,000 grit
Applications: Interior flooring, countertops, wall cladding, reception areas
This finish enhances color depth, clarity, and visual brilliance, giving the stone a luxurious appearance. Ideal for indoor environments, polished granite combines elegance with easy maintenance and stain resistance.
Honed Granite – Satin Smooth Finish with Subtle Appeal
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 1–3 µm
Gloss Level: 20–40 GU
Processing: Medium-grit progressive polishing without final buffing
Applications: Commercial flooring, wall cladding, stairs, corridors, bathrooms
With its R9–R10 slip resistance rating, honed granite is ideal for high-traffic indoor spaces like lobbies, bathrooms, and hallways.
Rough Granite Texture Built for Weather Resistance
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 15–30 µm
Gloss Level: < 5 GU
Processing: Oxy-acetylene flame heating (~1350°C) followed by quenching
Applications: Outdoor paving, exterior cladding, pool decks, walkways
Flamed granite is produced by subjecting the surface to high heat, causing differential mineral expansion that results in a rough, anti-slip texture.
Soft-Touch Granite Surface with Warm Appeal
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 5–10 µm
Gloss Level: 10–20 GU
Processing: Brushed with diamond abrasives after honing
Applications: Countertops, vanity tops, accent walls, outdoor furniture
The brushing process partially seals pores, improving stain resistance and ease of cleaning.
Bush-Hammered Granite – Heavy-Duty Finish for Grip and Durability
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 20–50 µm
Processing: Pneumatic hammering using multi-point carbide tips
Applications: Exterior paving, stair treads, plazas, industrial flooring
The resulting surface offers exceptional slip resistance with a CoF greater than 0.7, meeting global anti-slip standards.
Fine-Grain Matte Granite for Consistent Aesthetics
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 10–20 µm
Processing: Impact of silica or steel grit under compressed air
Applications: Façades, monuments, memorials, public installations
Sandblasted granite creates a soft, even texture with low reflection and consistent grain.
Shot-Blasted Granite – High-Performance Texture for Heavy Traffic Areas
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 15–25 µm
Processing: Steel shot blasting for uniform abrasion
Applications: Driveways, ramps, transport terminals, high-traffic pathways
This finish is ideal for industrial zones, parking areas, and external pavements exposed to constant friction and impact.
Waterjet Granite – Clean Surface Engineering for Façades
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): Adjustable 5–25 µm
Processing: High-pressure water erosion for surface texturing
Applications: Designer façades, custom textures, architectural panels
The waterjet or hydro finish uses high-pressure water to create digitally controlled surface patterns without heat or mechanical stress.
Rock-Faced Finish – Classic Edge for Heritage & Rustic Designs
Technical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): Variable (25–60 µm)
Processing: Manual or mechanical chiseling of edges
Applications: Boundary walls, façades, retaining walls, rustic exteriors
It retains structural strength while adding a raw, natural aesthetic to buildings, commonly used in heritage restorations and rustic-style architecture.
Semi-Polished Granite Finish Combining Shine and Grip
bush-hammered granite finishTechnical Characteristics:
Surface Roughness (Ra): 0.5–2 µm
Gloss Level: 40–70 GU
Processing: Partial polishing of raised areas with fine abrasives
Applications: Indoor flooring, wall cladding, commercial lobbies
It offers moderate slip resistance with elegant shine, making it suitable for hotels, lobbies, and contemporary interiors.
Choosing the Right Finish: A Functional Perspective
For Indoor Flooring: Choose Polished or Honed finishes for smooth texture, visual brilliance, and ease of maintenance.
For Outdoor Paving: Opt for Flamed or Bush-Hammered finishes that offer superior slip resistance and weather durability.
For Countertops: Use Polished or Leathered granite for stain resistance, low porosity, and a refined aesthetic.
For Façades and Cladding: Select Sandblasted, Flamed, or Waterjet finishes for UV resistance, visual uniformity, and long-term strength.
For Industrial Flooring: Go with Bush-Hammered or Shot-Blasted finishes for high friction, wear resistance, and load endurance.
Final Thoughts – Where Science Meets Stone Design
Surface finishing blends engineering precision with aesthetic intention to ensure optimal function in every application.
By combining material science, finishing technology, and architectural understanding, Aravali delivers stone surfaces that perform and inspire.
Whether it’s a mirror-polished granite for luxury interiors or a flamed finish for exterior resilience, Aravali’s finishes are designed to endure, impress, and elevate every architectural vision.