In recent years the price of granite has dropped to a level competitive with man-made countertop products. As a result, man-made countertop producers are feeling competitive pressures and a few of their representatives are supplying the consumer with false information about the properties of granite. In addition to information provided here, we encourage you to perform your own research and come to your own conclusions. 

 

 

What is granite?
Granite, from the Italian granito (meaning grained), is a type of volcanic rock containing crystallized minerals such as feldspar, quartz and mica. Formed deep within the earth's crust, the colors and patterns of granite are determined by the minerals, their varying concentrations, temperature, pressure and the rate at which the rocks cool down on their ascent to the earth's surface. It is this range of colors and patterns that make granite such an appealing and unique material to use for kitchen worktops, tiles and flooring within the home.

 

 

Is granite scratch and heat resistant?
Yes, Granite is both scratch and heat resistant. It is recommended that you do not use knives on granite not out of concern for scratching the granite but because the hardness of the granite will dull your knives. In addition, granite is one of the most heat resistant materials you can use. You can set hot pots on your granite tops without any concern.

 

 

My little sample of granite has pits on the surface - will I have these on my granite countertops? 
Granite, crystalline in structure, has tiny pits - spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don't see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite eons ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material. A product of nature cannot be expected to look man-made.

 

 

Does granite stain?
Yes, granite can stain if the granite has not been sealed and the substance is left on the granite to soak in. If you seal the granite once a year as recommended (a 15 minute wipe on - wipe off application), you should never experience a staining problem.

 

 

Does granite harbor harmful bacteria?
Both the Center for Disease Control and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have found no evidence of such. In fact, in one study; sealed granite was shown to be second only to stainless steel for resistance to bacteria.

 

 

Why is granite popular as a countertop material?
-First and foremost, looks! Granite comes in some amazing colors, and is considered to be one of the most beautiful stones in the world.-Durability: Granite lasts the lifetime of a person's home, is resistant to chipping and scratching, and is impervious to heat. The color and polished surface of granite does not fade over time. 
-Economics: With the new technology available to the miners and fabricators of granite, the cost of granite has dropped dramatically in the last few decades. Stone prices are now competitive with man-made options, and granite lasts longer than any other surface!