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When selecting granite for high-traffic floors, durability, slip resistance, and maintenance requirements are critical factors. Here are the best granite options for heavy-use areas, along with key considerations:

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Top Granite Choices for High-Traffic Floors

Granite Type	Key Properties	Best For	Maintenance
Absolute Black	- Extremely dense (low porosity) - Scratch-resistant - Uniform appearance	Commercial lobbies, airports	Minimal; occasional sealing
Uba Tuba	- Dark green/black with flecks - High abrasion resistance - Hides dirt well	Retail stores, hospitals	Low; seal annually
Kashmir White	- Light background with gray/black veins - Harder than most light-colored stones	Hotels, office buildings	Moderate; seal every 6–12 months
Tan Brown	- Brown/black speckled pattern - Excellent impact resistance	Schools, museums	Low; seal biannually
Giallo Ornamental	- Golden-beige with subtle veining - Good stain resistance	Restaurants, residential entryways	Moderate; seal annually

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Key Selection Criteria

1. Durability (Mohs Scale)
   • Opt for ≥6.5 hardness (e.g., Absolute Black: 7/10).
   • Avoid fissured granites (prone to cracking under heavy loads).
2. Slip Resistance
3. Choose honed/flamed finishes over polished (higher friction).
4. Test COF (Coefficient of Friction): ≥0.6 for ADA compliance.
5. Low-absorption (<0.5%) granites (e.g., Uba Tuba) resist stains better.
6. Sealing frequency: Denser = less sealing (some need none).
7. Speckled/veined patterns (e.g., Tan Brown) hide scratches better than solid colors.
8. Porosity
9. Aesthetic Practicality

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Comparison vs Other Stones

Material	Durability	Slip Resistance	Maintenance	Cost (per sq. ft.)
Granite	★★★★★	★★★☆ (honed)	★★★☆☆	$5\text{–}$5–15
Quartzite	★★★★☆	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	$10\text{–}$10–25
Porcelain	★★★★☆	★★★★☆ (textured)	★★★★★	$4\text{–}$4–12
Concrete	★★★☆☆	★★☆☆☆ (polished)	★★☆☆☆	$8\text{–}$8–20

Granite wins for natural stone durability, but porcelain may outperform for extreme traffic.

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Installation & Care Tips

• Subfloor Prep: Ensure 100% level base to prevent cracking.
• Grout Lines: Use epoxy grout (more durable than cement-based).
• Cleaning: pH-neutral stone soap (avoid vinegar/bleach).
• Sealing: Test water absorption yearly (if beads form, reseal).

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Best for Specific Applications

• Airports/Public Spaces: Absolute Black (indestructible, hides wear).
• Wet Areas (Pool Decks): Flamed-finished Uba Tuba (slip-resistant).
• Luxury Homes: Kashmir White (elegant but durable).

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"For floors that endure thousands of footsteps daily, granite’s natural strength is unmatched—just choose the right type and finish."