Granite is great. Besides the fact that it is naturally beautiful, its flecked, and sparkly appearance makes it perfect for both decoration and construction. It’s durable, sustainable, versatile, and boasts resistance to heat and scratching unparalleled by most other materials.
But to take care of your granite, it’s important to not fall for common misconceptions about the material. To separate fact from fiction, we’ve created this piece to dispel some of the common myths surrounding granite:
Myth #1: Granite is heat-resistant.
Fact: It’s perfectly fine to place a hot pan or pot on a granite countertop, but excessive heat exposure can discolor or damage some kinds of granite sealers. Rapid heating can generate internal stress, causing weak spots to crack. There are natural flaws and fissures in these stones, making them susceptible to minor cosmetic damage from time to time. To eliminate this problem, purchase trivets with feet, to lessen the heat exposure on the granite surface.
Myth #2: Granite countertops must be resealed annually.
Fact: This is a generalization. Many different stones are commercially sold as “granite” every year. Some stones can resist staining without any sealer; others are so porous that even sealers won’t stop them from staining. Therefore, you’ll have to test the water with your granite countertop or ask one of our experts for some sealant advice.
Myth #3: Granite countertops won’t crack, stain, or chip.
Higher quality types of granite materials are super resistant to damage, but any stone will chip if it’s hit hard enough with a heavy object. Additionally, granite can crack over time due to excessive use and natural flaws in the stone. Some stones may be marketed as “granite” but will absorb cooking oils and stain. Some sealers can also take damage from exposure to acidic liquids. So, watch where you chop your lemons.
Myth #4: Only diamonds can scratch granite.
Fact: Although granite is incredibly scratch-resistant, it’s not scratch-proof. There are tons of substances that are harder than granite. Abrasive cleaning products can cause tiny scratches or dull spots on granite surfaces if they are misused. Again, some stones that are sold as granite are not real granite, making them more prone to scratching.
Luckily, all of our marble and granite countertops are 100% genuine. We can guarantee this as we source them directly from popular quarries across the world. Our team of masonry experts will source, fabricate, and install any model inline with your specifications. Click here for a free estimate today!