Flamed Granite vs. Brushed Granite: Key Differences, Pros, and Cons

Last Updated May 20, 2025

Flamed granite features a textured, non-slip surface created by exposing the stone to high heat, making it ideal for outdoor applications like walkways and patios. Brushed granite is produced by mechanically brushing the surface, resulting in a smooth, matte finish that highlights the stone's natural patterns and is suitable for indoor countertops and decorative elements. Both finishes enhance granite's durability while offering distinct aesthetic and tactile qualities tailored to different design needs.

Table of Comparison

Feature Flamed Granite Brushed Granite
Surface Texture Rough, coarse, non-slip Soft, smooth, matte finish
Appearance Textured, natural rugged look Even, worn-in appearance
Slip Resistance High, ideal for outdoor use Moderate, suitable for indoor areas
Durability Very durable, weather-resistant Durable, but less resistant to heavy wear
Maintenance Low, easy to clean Moderate, may require regular sealing
Common Uses Patios, walkways, stairs Countertops, flooring, walls

Flamed Granite vs Brushed Granite: Key Differences

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface created by exposing the stone to high-temperature flames, enhancing slip resistance and natural beauty. Brushed granite is produced by brushing the stone with fine steel brushes, resulting in a smoother, matte finish that highlights the granite's natural patterns. The key differences lie in their textures and applications: flamed granite suits outdoor, high-traction environments, while brushed granite is preferred for indoor areas needing a softer, elegant appearance.

Surface Texture: Flamed Granite vs Brushed Granite

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface created by exposing the stone to high-temperature flames, resulting in a slip-resistant, rugged finish ideal for outdoor use. Brushed granite undergoes a mechanical brushing process that softens the surface, producing a smooth yet tactile texture with a subtle matte appearance. The choice between flamed and brushed granite affects aesthetic appeal and functional properties like grip, durability, and maintenance requirements.

Appearance and Aesthetic Comparison

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface with a natural, non-slip finish achieved through high-temperature treatment, ideal for outdoor applications and rustic aesthetics. Brushed granite has a smooth, slightly textured feel created by brushing with bronze or wire brushes, resulting in a matte appearance that highlights the stone's natural colors and patterns. The flamed surface tends to emphasize ruggedness and depth, while brushed granite offers a more refined, subtle elegance suitable for both indoor and outdoor designs.

Durability and Wear Resistance

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface created by high-temperature treatment, enhancing its slip resistance and durability against heavy foot traffic and weathering. Brushed granite undergoes mechanical brushing to produce a smooth yet tactile finish that maintains strong wear resistance while providing a softer aesthetic. Both finishes offer exceptional durability, but flamed granite is preferred for outdoor applications requiring superior abrasion and weather resilience.

Slip Resistance: Safety Considerations

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface created by high-temperature treatment, providing excellent slip resistance ideal for outdoor walkways and wet environments. Brushed granite undergoes a mechanical process that produces a smooth yet slightly textured finish, offering moderate slip resistance suitable for interior flooring. Prioritizing slip resistance in granite selection enhances safety by reducing fall risks in residential and commercial spaces.

Ideal Applications for Flamed Granite

Flamed granite, created by exposing the stone surface to high-temperature flames followed by rapid cooling, offers a rough, slip-resistant texture ideal for outdoor applications such as walkways, pool decks, and patios. Its enhanced durability and ability to retain traction in wet conditions make it a preferred choice for landscaping and exterior staircases. The natural, rugged appearance of flamed granite also complements rustic and contemporary architectural designs, making it suitable for both residential and commercial projects.

Ideal Applications for Brushed Granite

Brushed granite features a textured surface achieved by brushing the stone with abrasive materials, making it slip-resistant and ideal for outdoor applications such as walkways, patios, and pool surrounds. Its subtle matte finish enhances natural stone patterns without the high gloss of polished granite, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional safety in high-traffic areas. Brushed granite also performs well in kitchen countertops and commercial flooring where durability and a non-slip surface are essential.

Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface that resists stains and requires minimal maintenance, typically needing only regular sweeping and occasional washing with mild detergent. Brushed granite has a smoother finish with fine grooves, which can trap dirt and grime, making it necessary to clean more frequently with a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaners to preserve its appearance. Both finishes benefit from periodic sealing to enhance durability and protect against moisture and stains.

Cost Differences Between Flamed and Brushed Granite

Flamed granite typically costs more than brushed granite due to the intensive heating process required to create its rough, textured surface, which increases labor and energy expenses. Brushed granite involves a more straightforward, mechanical technique that lightly abrades the stone, resulting in lower production costs and a more affordable price point. The price difference between flamed and brushed granite can vary by region and supplier but generally ranges from 10% to 25% higher for flamed finishes.

Choosing Between Flamed and Brushed Granite for Your Project

Flamed granite features a rough, textured surface created by high-temperature exposure, offering excellent slip resistance ideal for outdoor and heavy-traffic areas. Brushed granite undergoes mechanical abrasion, resulting in a smooth yet slightly textured finish that enhances natural color and is suitable for indoor applications where subtle texture is desired. Selecting between flamed and brushed granite depends on project requirements for aesthetics, safety, and functionality, with flamed granite excelling in durability and grip, while brushed granite provides a refined, natural appearance.

Flamed granite vs Brushed granite Infographic

Flamed Granite vs. Brushed Granite: Key Differences, Pros, and Cons


About the author.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about Flamed granite vs Brushed granite are subject to change from time to time.

Comments

No comment yet