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I am leaving this previous answer up for discussion purposes, to show that a consumer needs to research this topic in depth rather than trust any one side of the issue.
"Marble or Granite countertops are NOT "toxic". Some granites let off a very small amount of radiation that is not harmfull. There is a lot of info on the subject, check out the MIA (Marble Institute of America) they are the national oranization that sets guidelines for all things stone. There is some bad / incorrect info floating around the web that has been put out by producers of "fake" stone materials to promote their own product."
As in any definitive statement, saying that "Marble or Granite countertops are NOT toxic" is not accurate, in fact it is quite missleading. All it takes to disprove the sentence is to find one granite or marlbe countertop that is toxic. Whether it be radiation, Radon, or a toxic heavy metal, it has been proven that "some" granites are a indeed toxic.
"Some granites let off a very small amount of radiation" is partially true, but it avoids telling that some granites do give off large amounts of radiation and Radon. What is important are the unsafe types, since the low radon producers are of little concern.
Depending on the MIA for facts is extrememly irresponsible. A simple Google search, especially using Google Cache, will show that they have been surpressing this information for around 15 years. And they do not set any standards on these issues.
Currently, the MIA's worst nightmare has come true, with the CRCPD (state radiation officials) and AARST (radon scientists) having committees looking into setting maximum allowable radiation/radon levels for stones and measurement protocols. ANSI and ASME are also looking into the controversy for their organizations. In fact, I got an email today from one of the ASME committee members about the issue.
Despite the claims, few countertop shops sell just one product these days. Most sell granite, quartz, solid surface, laminate, and the cement based products, what ever the customers want. For that reason, the facts are begining to become known, to the dismay of those that sell only granite.
Radiation and Radon are generally lower in Marbles, but both marble and granite has been studied for many years on these issues. Here is a link for several studies, from all over the world.
http://solidsurfacealliance.org/granite-Radon-issues-page-2.HTML
Currently, there are three major U.S. studies on the issue. The radiation issue is being covered by an independent researcher at Rice University, Dr. Llope. Dr. Kitto of the New York State Health Department has recently finished a study on Radon, after reopening it for further results this summmer. The study is in peer review and will be published in a scientific journal. Another expert at St. Johns University, Dr. Steck, is currently studying large amounts of granite slabs.
All three researchers, Llope, Kitto and Steck, have been repeatably quoted in the media saying that there are troubling amounts of Radon and radiation in some types of granite.
We have a Radon test running, over 20 pCi/L from 36 square feet of granite in a 8' x 12' x 8' tall room. That is like smoking 2 1/2 packs a day.
http://forum.solidsurfacealliance.org/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=98ST
Please respond in the discussion area if you disagree with this position on the issue. If you demonstrate mastery of the subject enough to have a convincing argument on any of my points, I have no problem with further supporting the points with independent data.
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∙ 12y ago
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Is a marble pure substance or mixture?
Just like granite, marble is a mixture. However, unlike granite, marble is typically more than 90% calcium carbonate, so it might count as a pure substance. Marble is a type of limestone, so is a mixture.
What does it mean for a chemical to be toxic?
To be toxic means you are not good for someone like if I am a killer and you are one of my friends that would make you toxic to the police you would be seen as me. For a chemical to be toxic is that you probably should not touch and/or drink the chemical for it will damage you.
What is the chmical formula of marble?
Chemical formula for marble is CaCO3. Ca means calcium. C means carbon. O means oxygen. here it means 1 calcium, 1 carbon and 3 oxygen. They also call marble as calcium carbonate.
What's a safe chemical to clean granite with?
You can buy a cleaner like MB-5 Daily Spray Cleaner that is made for granite. It is hard to get all the soap off if you use soap.
Are rubbish bags toxic?
Depends on what the bag is made of, and on what's in them. Household waste is usually not toxic, unless you put things like batteries, medicines or chemicals like drain cleaners, paints or solvents in them. Most plastic bags aren't toxic either. Some can give off toxic fumes when burnt though.
Where can one purchase granite countertops?
I would like to redo my kitchen countertops. Where can one buy granite countertops?
What are alternatives to granite countertops?
Good alternatives to a granite countertop are glass countertops, marble countertops and mosaic tile. Each of those options has their own benefit as well as some drawbacks. Some benefits include glass is easy to clean, marble is a very elegant material, and mosaic tiles come in a variety of colors and patterns. Some quick drawbacks are, glass breaks easily, marble chips and mosaic grout is difficult to clean.
Other than granite and laminate what are some materials used for kitchen countertops?
Ceramic tile, faux granite, marble, faux marble, butcher block. I've seen stainless steel (pricey). My favorite, corian. There are also corian types. We have something like corian, but cheaper and I think better. There are probably others but these are what I can think of.
Why does everyone think they need granite countertops all of a sudden?
Let me laugh a second. Well granite countertops are nice, heavy, and have a classy shine in most cases. People just like them I guess.
Find Granite for Countertops?
form_title=Find Granite for Countertops form_header=Improve the look and feel of your home with a granite countertop. Do you prefer a certain color range of granite.= () Yes () No Do you want to replace an old countertop, or is this a new installation?= () Replace () New Would you like an estimate on the cost of installing a granite countertop?= () Yes () No
Is a marble pure substance or mixture?
Just like granite, marble is a mixture. However, unlike granite, marble is typically more than 90% calcium carbonate, so it might count as a pure substance. Marble is a type of limestone, so is a mixture.
Are there any health risks associated with marble countertops?
There are few or no major health risks associated with marble countertops. Marble countertops are an excellent choice with regard to health and safety because the solid marble material doesn't absorb liquid or food juices readily. Marble can also be thoroughly cleaned after each use, reducing the opportunities for bacteria to grow on the surface. Remember, though, that polished marble can be scratched or dulled by abrasive cleansers, so be sure to use only a cleanser specifically intended for use on marble. Marble countertops are porous and susceptible to stains, but they are no potential thread to mans health. No. If sealed with a quality sealer like HMK-S34 Impregnator, this seals the pores of the stone and protects against stains and water damage.
How To Make Your Granite Countertops Shine?
After the past several years, granite countertops have become the common countertop in many homes across the world. Something about the granite’s shine and color make it perfect for almost any type of kitchen. However, granite countertops are notorious for being streaky, dull and ridden with fingerprints. Have you ever seen flawless, sparkling granite countertops and wondered how in the world you’d produce that same effect with your own? The trick is actually quite simple and quick, which will allow you to be envious of your seemingly new countertops. Initially Cleaning the Countertops Firstly, cleaning the countertops is a must. They must be clean in order to shine, right? Using a glass cleaner or even soap and water will do the trick. If you’re using soap and water, make sure that all of the soap residue is cleared from the countertops to avoid buildup. Make sure the granite countertops are completely dry. After cleaning with your chosen cleaner, make sure they are streak-free as well. Using a Special Countertop Cleaner or Polish There really is no other way to make your granite countertops pop than to use specially made cleaner and polish. The cleaner and/or polish will have to be made especially for granite or it will not produce the effect you are looking for. Things like lemon oil and other unsuitable cleaners will not cut it. It’s also important to use chemicals especially made for the cleaning or polishing of granite counter tops because they are specially designed to not leave a film of residue behind. They will also not be harmful at all on your countertops. Preventing Stains that Could Worsen Shine Even though granite countertops are gorgeous, they are susceptible to staining. Oils are especially not recommended to come into contact with countertops because it’s very hard to remove it from a granite surface. That’s why it’s important not to place greasy fast food bags or pizza boxes on the granite. Cleaning granite countertops is not a laborious task if you take certain precautions.
Where can a granite countertop be bought?
Granite countertops which are commonly found in the kitchen are used to make the surfaces more attractive and neat. They can be purchased in different colours and designs at sites like 'Lazy granite' and 'Build Direct'.
Where could I use marble countertops in my home decor?
Marble is perfect for a bathroom countertop. Marble is a calcium based stone so it is not usually used in a kitchen where acids can etch marble. If you like the old world look of marble kitchen countertops, have your marble "honed" to remove the polish, thus giving you a satin look. Combined with a quality sealer like HMK-S34 Impregnator, marble may be an option for some people. Powder bath counters and master bath vanity tops are very often made out of marble slabs.
What kind of sickness would the granite counter top cause?
Well, granite can NOT cause any dissease or sickness. Countertops, like most surfaces, can, and do have germs on them. A good example would be influenza
Is stronger granite marble or limestone?
Granite marble is stranger than Lime stone as granite marble have non-interlocked but cemented with Caco3. For this reasons most people are using the marbles in flooring. However Lime stone also using on building wall and pillars. Apart from that current time these stones are available overall all stores like "Builderoutletusa".
