The Dangers Of Granite Countertops And Alternatives To Granite
Cancer - a dreaded word in the modern lexicon
Cancer - a dreaded word in the modern lexicon. Covering a class of diseases when a group of cells in the human body exhibit uncontrolled growth (division beyond normal limits), encroachment (intrusion on and demolition of adjacent tissues), and sometimes metastasis (spread to other locations in the body via lymph or blood), cancer is estimated to 15% of all human deaths. Would not it alarm you to know that granite countertops may be a contributing factor?
Granite countertops have long held pride of location in American kitchens, and not without reason. Being the second-hardest certainly occurring composition after diamond, granite offers an extraordinarily tough and stable choice for the plane work surface installed upon and supported by cabinets, the countertop. After all, not many would be proficient to manage one made out of diamonds!
To add to its toughness, granite offers a natural attraction without parallel. Although granite countertops require persistent preservation for their susceptibility to stains and porosity, the combination of beauty and durability makes it a top alternative for American homes. Not any more.
Recent studies have shown that granite countertops hold uranium, a metal that naturally decays releasing the gas radon. Radon is an very unsafe and toxic composition which has exacting destructive effects on the human body. Here is what the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the statutory body dealing with toxic substances, has to say on the gas - "Radon is a cancer-causing actual radioactive gas that you can not see, smell or taste. Its adjacency in your house can pose a hazard to health of your family
. Radon is the influential origin of lung cancer among non-smokers. Radon is the second leading reason of lung cancer in America and claims about 20,000 lives annually."
And as for the link between radon and granite countertops, consider what William Llope, a Rice University physics professor, has to say on the subject - "Most stones, in terms of radioactivity, are somewhat quiet. But there are couples I have found that are insanely hot." Even though Michael Kitto, a investigation scientist from the New York State Health Department, found only a small ratio of granite countertops with this trouble, he did not release it unrestricted. The query is, are you agreeable to take even a small risk where the health and protection of your family are concerned? If not, maybe it is about time you started exploring some alternatives to granite for your countertop needs.
Here are some options:
1. Laminate - Available in trademarks like Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart. They are made of plastic-coated synthetics that are smooth and easy to pure.
2. Wood - Can be styled into a number of designs ranging from Block of Butcher to Joined Planks to Single Wide Stave. Considered the most
Eco-friendly selection.
3. Stainless steel - Provides a contemporary and industrial look to the kitchen. Very stable and heat-resistant, and can be fashioned to accurate specifications.
4. Tile - Comparatively cheap, yet durable and easy to purified. Unlike numerous other options, does not require professional establishment. Ceramic and stone tiles are stylish options.
by: Jim Knight
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