Installing Granite Thresholds
A threshold is the space between two rooms or an entrance into a room from outside. In the space of the doorway, whether a door exists or not, there is still this space that needs some form of transitioning from one type of flooring to the next. Depending upon the type of flooring dividing the rooms, determines the type of threshold that is used. There is sometimes transition from carpet to tile. Sometimes the transition is hardwood to some type of stone flooring such as granite, marble, or tile. The purpose of the threshold is to make a smooth and safe transition from one flooring material to the next.
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Thresholds often need to be wheelchair accessible, so the cut of the threshold is important to accommodate the passage. Each piece of granite is beveled on both sides. Beveling is the tapering of the material for a slanted edge to take the sharpness off of the stone. This procedure rounds off the stone, in a manner of speaking, so the wheelchair can roll over it easier. A smoother transition for walking over the threshold is important for safety as well. If the threshold goes from outdoors to indoors, then weather safe material is another important factor to consider and granite is a great natural stone choice for this transition as well.
Granite is an igneous type of rock. Most granite has a medium to coarse grained texture. The range of color is variable. This stone comes in all shades of pink to dark gray or even shades of black, depending upon the chemistry or mineralogy. Because of its durability, dense nature, and lack of internal structure, it has become a widespread popular use as a construction stone.
When choosing to install granite thresholds yourself, it is important to first measure accurately before cutting or ordering the granite. A special blade to cut granite is needed and a stone cutter can be rented from a home improvement store, if you do not own one. Also many stores who carry home improvement products have pre-cut granite thresholds available. They can also give you advice on the best procedure for installing the threshold.
You may be able to save money doing it yourself, but overall savings would be determined by time involved. After procuring all of the supplies needed for installation, traveling to the store for materials, as well as installation time used, another alternative is available. If you have little experience in construction of this type, the wise course of action in the long run, may be to hire a professional to do the work for you. All you would have to do in this case, is decide on the color scheme you would like to follow and have the professional find, prepare and install the threshold for you.
Regardless of whether you are installing the granite threshold yourself or hiring a professional, most decorators agrees granite is a great choice for adding elegance and this natural stone insures durability and beauty.
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