Where does Granite come from?
Granites are quarried all over the world. In addition to the
traditional sources, such as Brazil, Italy, USA, Canada, popular
granite producing areas now include India, China, many African
nations, much of mountainous South America and the Northern
European countries.
Are Granite Counter tops Sanitary?
Once upon a time….there was a report circulating that
granite counter tops were unsafe, harbor bacteria and can produce
disease. This is absolutely FALSE! These rumors are circulated
by the Solid Surface Industry in an attempt to compete with
the Stone Industry.
Can Granite be damaged?
Like any solid surface, high impact blows can harm granite.
Because of its crystalline structure, it can chip if subjected
to sharp objects. Unsealed, granite can absorb stains such as
oils, which can ultimately cause dark spots or discoloration.
Heat from pots and pans or burning liquids will not affect granite
under normal circumstances. Items that retain 212° F could
cause a stress fracture in the stone. A chip can be filled with
a epoxy mixture.
Does Granite need to be sealed?
We seal the granite at installation. Following that, you should
re-seal the stone 6 months to 1 year after installation. Sealing
Granite is easy simply spray on the sealer and wipe it off with
a soft cloth. You may purchase stone care products directly
from A Surface Solution.
How do you clean Granite?
There is very little maintenance required with granite countertops.
Warm water with a mild detergent soap for everyday clean up,
or even razor blades for dried on foods stuck to the counter.
Non-oil based kitchen cleaners, no “Orange Oil”
and of course no abrasive cleaners. We recommend using cleaners
specifically formulated to help clean and protect stone surfaces.
Does Granite Stain?
In general, no. All stone, however, is porous to some extent.
Liquids like cooking oils or olive oil don’t evaporate
and left sitting on stone overnight would in fact soak into
the stone. In a lighter color of granite this would show up
as a dark spot. Normal kitchen clean up is all that is necessary
to keep granite counters looking great and stain free.
Can you scratch Granite?
Granite is one of the hardest stones in the world. It is resistant
to scratching in ordinary use. A knife blade will not scratch
granite. Granite can only be scratched by another piece of granite
or by sharpened tools or metal clip boards.
Can I cut on my Granite Countertops?
Only if you want to ruin your good knives. Granite is harder
than your knife blades and will dull the blade very quickly.
Always cut and chop on a wooden or plastic cutting board.
Can granite crack?
Not with ordinary use. Granite is most susceptible to cracks
during shipping and installation. Normal use will not overstress
this durable material. Normal use does NOT include standing
on the counter tops.