take it for granite: do light-colored granite countertops stain easily? The answer is that while no material is completely 100-percent stain-proof, granite countertops are surprisingly stain-resistant— and that includes light colors, too! The natural stone’s hardness gives granite its resistance to staining.
How fragile is granite countertop?
Granite is extremely unlikely to crack during normal use. Most cracks are the result of stress during handling, fabrication, or installation. However, it is possible to cause cracks or stress fractures by standing on countertops or, in some cases, placing extremely hot objects on the surface.
What is the lightest color granite?
Among various brighter tints, white is considered the lightest color. In the long list of granite colour options, light granite colors appeal to all who are interested in purchasing soothing and brighter colors for a number of residential and commercial construction projects.
Are some granites harder than others?
The only known substance known to be harder than granite is diamond. It will not crumble or break down as time goes on. The minerals that make up granite are quartz, mica, and feldspar.
How is granite brittle?
Recognized as one of the most useful materials on the planet, granite rarely chips or scratches and is comparable to diamond when considering durability. Granite is not indestructible however, while extremely tough, granite can easily be considered brittle and is not very flexible.
Can you ruin granite countertops?
Can granite be damaged? Even though granite is one of the most durable naturally occurring materials and is almost indestructible, granite countertops can be damaged. The good thing is that most forms of damage are the result of mistakes that can be avoided.
Can I put hot pans on granite?
Homeowners don’t need to worry about damaging their countertops with everyday use because granite is quite heat resistant. Placing a hot pan on a well-maintained granite slab will not cause it to crack or weaken. Just remember that repeatedly placing a very hot pan on the same spot may cause granite to discolor.
Can you get light colored granite?
Light colored granite countertops are versatile and can be the perfect finishing piece for many kitchen designs, from classic to contemporary.
What is the most popular granite color?
White, black, blue, and gold are the most popular granite colors this season. This neutral and versatile palette offers limitless opportunities to play with interior design in terms of texture and color.
Is granite going out of style?
Granite isn’t expected to disappear anytime soon. According to a global research report, the granite, marble, and stone market is anticipated to grow at a considerable rate through 2025. However, quartz is quickly emerging as granite’s biggest rival.
How can you tell quality of granite?
Perform a thorough visual inspection of the granite slab. Look for any blemishes such as cracks, chips, discolorations, scratches, and dings. Also, be on the lookout for the uniformity of the surfaces. Check the edges if they are cut straight.
How old is my granite countertop?
Granite can last for 100+ years; after all it is a natural substance found deep in the earth that is already millions of years old. Granite is a very hard substance, which means it is not as susceptible to scratching as other common countertop surfaces.
What are the problems with granite countertops?
Let’s take a look at some common problems faced with granite countertops, and how to prevent them. Stubborn Stains. Granite is resistant to stains, here is how to avoid discoloration. Eerie Etching. Stubborn Chipping. Continuous Hazing. Cracks. Heat Damage.
Is granite hard to break?
Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world. The only material that is harder than granite is a diamond. The hardness of granite makes it durable. Unlike other stone types, granite won’t crumble or break over time.
Does granite break easily?
Although, granite is naturally heat resistant, having been formed through heat, constant exposure to heat over extended periods can weaken the stone leading to cracks. The damage is extensive, especially if the stone is cold at the time of heat exposure, and the difference in temperatures is large.
Does granite need to be sealed?
Granite is one of the strongest materials on Earth, so is it really necessary to seal granite countertops? Absolutely! Granite that has not been properly sealed can store germs and moisture – things you don’t want on your food preparation surfaces.
Does lemon damage granite?
Fact: Granite is a quartz-based stone that is acid-resistant. Lemon juice, tomato juice, and other acidic household items will not harm granite.
Will baking soda damage granite?
The Chemistry of Sodium Bicarbonate At such pH levels, baking soda can be described as being caustic, which means it isn’t safe to use on natural stone.
What should you not put on a granite countertop?
Rock Doctor suggests that you avoid the following on your granite countertops: Ammonia. Bleach. Vinegar. Grout cleaners. Bath tile cleaners. Orange, lemon, or other citrus cleaners. Glass cleaners. Hydrogen peroxide.
How often should you polish granite countertops?
Most granite surfaces require polishing every five to 15 years, depending on the traffic or use they receive. Of course, polished granite must then be sealed to protect it from stains and other harmful issues, and that process is covered below.
What is the best way to clean granite countertops?
How to Clean Granite Countertops Don’t use harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive scrubbing tools: Stick with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft microfiber cloth. Wipe up spills as soon as possible: Granite isn’t as porous as marble, so it’s less susceptible to soaking up oils and stains.
How often does granite need to be sealed?
Many professionals recommend sealing granite countertops at least once each year. If you cook frequently in your kitchen and use the countertops daily, you might need to reseal the granite even more frequently.
What are the least expensive granite colors?
You’ll typically find that tan and black granite slabs are the least expensive, and that white granite tends to be higher in cost. Yet, black and white are both the two most popular choices in granite colors. So why is one more expensive than the other?May 17, 2017.
What causes granite to discolor?
While granite is somewhat resistant to staining, many substances can still manage to leave stains if the surface sealant has weakened over time. True discoloration is caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays or extreme heat.
What’s cheaper granite or marble?
Granite is less expensive than marble, starting at roughly $75/square foot installed and $100 more than that for higher-end stone. Installed marble countertops start at around $100/square foot and can go over $200.