The Pros & Cons Of Granite Countertops

Granite Countertop Specifications

100% Natural: Granite is a natural stone and each slab is unique.

heat resistance: Granite is considered one of the most heat resistant countertops and will not melt or blister when exposed to heat. While granite can tolerate heat, prolonged exposure to high temperatures is not recommended. Use of the trivet is still recommended.

Scratches and Chips: Granite is considered one of the hardest stones on Earth, making scratches and chips rare.

Stain: Granite is considered a porous stone, although the darker the granite, the more dense it will be. The lighter the granite, the more porous it will be. Generally, most granites have a naturally low moisture absorption rate. Therefore, staining is generally not a concern unless the fluid is left in place for a long period of time. Unlike marble, granite is not affected by citric acid, coffee, tea, alcohol or wine. For added protection against stains, most fabricators add a sealant. More information on sealants below!

Bacteria Resistance: Granite is naturally bacteria resistant. Sealant and regular cleaning is recommended to maintain its resistance to bacteria.

Cleaning: Mild soap and water or natural stone cleaners are recommended for cleaning granite.

Sealing: Most fabricators apply sealant to granite as an “as needed” layer of stain protection at the time of installation. How often you need to reseal depends on the sealant manufacturer’s recommendations. Generally, experts recommend resealing granite once a year.

low maintenance: For all of the above reasons, granite is considered low maintenance.