Benefits of Stone: Myths about Granite

Benefits of Stone | Myths about Granite | Product Comparison

There have been many things written about granite - some true and some are myths. Read our list of most common myths about granite and why they are not true.

Myth #1: Granite is absorbent
Granite qualifies as impervious to water and is actually less absorbent than some solid surface products, such as some plastics. Granite is commonly used as building materials for high-rise buildings due to its ability to withstand gale force winds and rain.

Myth #2: Granite stains easily
Granite is resistant to stains. Generally, any liquid spilled on a granite top, if wiped up within a few minutes, will not stain. However, if left for a long period of time, even water can soak into a granite countertop and leave a dark colored spot. But eventually, it will evaporate, and the spot will disappear. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oils, will cause stains if left to soak into the stone. However, if the source of the stain is known, it is very likely that the stain can be removed.

Myth #3: Stains in granite are permanent
Most stains can be removed. Even oil stains can usually be removed using a poultice or paste that will draw out the oil from the stone.

Myth #4: Granite will lose its polish over the years
While this may be true of marble, granite will shine years from now just as if it was brand new. Granite is highly scratch resistant and will not show wear from daily use.

Myth #5: Granite requires a lot of maintenance
Routing cleaning with mild soap and water is all that is generally required. If you choose, a re-application of a penetrating sealer should be performed ever one to four years (or longer for some granites), which only takes about 15-30 minutes - less time than scouring a solid surface countertop with a cleanser to remove scratches.

Myth #6: Heat will cause granite to chip and crack
Granite is heat resistant and can withstand the heat of hot pots and pans without damage. Impact from a heavy object may chip granite but heat from anything short of a blowtorch will not affect your countertop.

Myth #7: Dark colored granites are harder than light colored granites
Granites are composed of a variety of minerals, each of which has specific performance properties. The hardest mineral commonly found in granite is quartz, which is normally a somewhat translucent, white to gray colored mineral.

Myth #8: Granite's tiny pores and fissures harbor bacteria
Bacteria are found everywhere. If it is on a granite top, then it can also be found on a laminate or solid surface top. Use an anti-bacterial soap to wash your countertop if you are concerned.

Myth #9: Granite and marble are essentially the same
Besides the fact that they are both natural stones and can be polished, they are otherwise very different. Marble is generally a calcious stone, formed from oceanic deposits and then compressed under pressure (metamorphosed). Granite, however, is an igneous rock, essentially molten magma, which is cooled and then hardened below the earth's surface.

Myth #10: Granite is expensive
Granite is usually competitively priced compared to other high-end surfacing materials. You will be amazed when you compare the price of granite to other popularly famed "luxury surfaces." Granite offers you an unmatched value with its natural beauty, elegance and longevity, the uniqueness of each slab will provide you with a truly "one of a kind" kitchen.