Granite countertops are among the most sturdy and hardest stone you can get. They’re hard to damage, but not impossible. You’d be surprised how easily you can cause them permanent stains or scratches if you’re not careful. What’s worse is much of what can do harm to granite countertops is very run-of-the-mill activities in your kitchen. If you’re not keeping a careful eye, you may find your countertop is need of repair.
Granite is hard, but not impenetrable. Sharp knives, hard hits, and abrasive materials used without care can cause scratches, cracks, and even break it. Likewise stains can set in, especially if you’re not keeping up with your resealing schedule on your countertop.
Below are 5 of the most dangerous hazards to your granite countertop.
Sharp Knives
While it takes a good knife to put a nick in granite, it’s far from impossible. A sharp, sturdy knife can do some real damage to your granite countertop, so make sure you’re using a suitable cutting board whenever chopping on your countertop. Though many people like the ability to cut items directly on their countertop, avoiding doing so can save both the surface and your knives.
Abrasives
People want their kitchen surfaces clean, so sometimes they turn to acidic and abrasive cleaners to make sure the job really gets done. These cleaners can dissolve the protective sealants on your counter surface, leaving it vulnerable to scratches and stains. And once the stone is exposed, acids and abrasive materials can do harm directly to the stone.
Raw Meat
Granite is fairly porous and is known for absorbing materials that come into contact with its surface, especially if the granite isn’t sealed properly. If raw meat spends time directly on a granite countertop, the countertop can absorb the bacteria which not only makes the surface area hazardous, it can cause the counter to absorb long lasting odors from the bacteria
Pigmented Fluids
This is especially true if you’ve got a full house of kids with a thirst for colorful juices and some slippery hands. Your granite can absorb the colorful liquids that get spilled on its surface, which can be a real problem if you’ve got lighter colored granite. Clean up any spills as quickly as possible to avoid them setting.
Excessive Impact
Though you may not see it, granite has natural nicks, cracks, and even tiny fault lines. This means any impact to the surface, caused by movement, weight, or blunt force can exacerbate existing defects in the stone and cause it crack and break over time. Be careful not to overwork your granite and keep careful eye on its condition.
Related Questions
What kind of cleaners should I use on my counter?
There’s plenty of cleaning products out there designed specifically for granite. Spring for one of those and avoid bleach, acetic acid, and ammonia-based cleaners.
Can I put hot pans on the granite surface?
Yes, granite countertops can withstand the heat of a dish fresh out of the oven as the contact is brief and the item begins to cool the second it touches the granite. But, a trivet or some other protective item is encouraged.
Talk to a Granite Countertop Professional Near You
The pros at Texas Granite Group are your go-to for all things countertops. We specialize in the fabrication and installation of stone countertops including granite, quartz, and marble. Whether you have questions about your current countertops, need a countertop remodel or are dreaming of a new granite or quartz installation, our countertop team is ready to help.
We have worked with homeowners throughout the Austin area to create kitchens and bathrooms that are not only beautiful, but functional for optimal daily use.