Granite’s luxurious look, extreme durability, and low maintenance nature can convince anyone to pick them as a countertop material. However, many are surprised when they discover that this hard slab of stone is not immune to acidic substances and damage. That is why it is important to know what can cause these damages so you can protect your granite countertop and keep them looking gorgeous for a long time. Here is some common damage your granite can suffer and how to avoid them from happening.
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Haziness or Cloudiness
Cloudiness usually results from applying the incorrect cleaning product to your granite. Abrasive or acidic cleaners like water and dish soap are notorious for leaving a film behind that contributes to the foggy appearance. Avoid this by frequently cleaning your counters with the right granite-safe solutions. Then, dry clean your counters to remove any water stains and prevent streaks for a shiny finish.
Impact Damage
Although granite is incredibly strong, heavy items can still damage it. Washing heavy pots and pans around the sink often results in granite being chipped at the edges or next to them. Your choice of granite color, pattern, or texture makes chips easier to conceal, but you can still feel them. Thus, be cautious while lifting bulky objects above and close to your granite counters.
Heat Damage
Straight off the stove pots and pans or heated hair tools like curling and straightening irons can be very dangerous for your granite countertops. While sealants can prevent food and drink stains, they are not as heat resistant as granite itself. The countertop may develop fractures and black markings with repeated exposure to heat. Always use hot pads or trivets underneath hot cookware to protect your countertops from heat damage.
Cracks
A stress fracture or crack can happen when you apply too much pressure to the stone. They are more likely to arise during handling, fabrication, or installation pressures. Placing hot things on your countertop or leaning on it to reach items on a high shelf might cause fractures. Always use a step stool to access areas above your countertop, and place heat insulation between hot objects and the granite to prevent damage.
Stains
Granite is far more stain-resistant than marble. Water, fruit juices, oils, and alcohol can leave stains on the stone when left for a long time. Regularly sealing your granite countertops will help prevent liquid penetration from causing stains. Get rid of organic stains by soaking a paper towel in bleach and applying it to the affected area. A handmade paste of baking soda and acetone can remove oil stains.
Etching
When granite is exposed to acids like those found in soda, vinegar, wine, fruit juices, or vinegar, some of the stone’s mineral content dissolves in the acid. Significant etching can result in pits in the stone itself, although minor etching may just tarnish the surface. To prevent etching, use proper sealant and barriers, avoid acidic or corrosive cleaners, wipe up spills as soon as they happen, and apply a polish against etching.
Scratches
What seems to be scratches on the stone are sometimes actually etches. Only things that are harder than stone can scratch granite. Precious stones like sapphire, topaz, and diamonds can scratch granite. Avoid dragging rings and other jewelry containing valuable stones across the counter’s surface to prevent scratches.
Thanks to granite’s dependability and durability, damage may be prevented with ease. Using a cleaner safe for granite helps stop a lot of the common damage. Use sealants, hot pads, and trivets to shield your countertops. Avoid using abrasive and acidic materials, and clean up spills immediately. Seal your countertops every year, or have them professionally sealed and polished. If you take care of your granite, it will continue to shine for many years.
source: https://graniteliquidators.com/blog/seven-easy-ways-to-damage-your-granite-and-how-to-avoid-them/
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