Although your granite countertops are one of the best choices for a durable kitchen work surface, they’re not as durable as a certain superhero’s bulletproof skin. Granite countertops are tough, but if they’re not treated properly bad things can happen to them.
We have had questions about maintenance and if you really can set a hot frying pan on the counter right off the stove. So today we’d like to set the record straight with some “facts” about your granite countertops.
“It’s Heat Resistant” – Yes, granite is much more heat resistant than many other countertop surfaces but we still advise not setting a pan straight from the oven or stove on your kitchen countertop. In some cases excessive heat may cause discoloration or other damage in part because of the sealant on the granite. Additionally, repeated rapid heating and or cooling can stress any natural stone.
“It’s Scratch Resistant” – Your granite countertop is hard but it’s not the second hardest stone on earth as we’ve heard said (some people mistakenly think only their diamond can scratch it). All minerals are ranked in hardness on the Mohs scale and granite comes in at a seven but depending upon the type of granite different things can scratch the surface, even cleaning products. We recommend that any natural stone surface be cleaned with pH neutral cleaning products that are labeled non-abrasive.
“It’s Hard to Maintain” – Granite and other natural stone countertops are not hard to maintain. Much to many “granite sealing” companies and products dismay, most granite countertops do not need to be resealed twice a year. If you keep your countertop clean and reseal it based on Modlich Stonework’s recommendations, your granite countertops should look beautiful for many years to come.
“It’s Harmful to My Health” – We’re not sure where this one comes from but we have heard some false information floating around that granite emits Radon gas which is harmful. Although it is true that all natural stone emits Radon to some degree, the amount emitted from granite is significantly less than the amount emitted from the concrete foundation that your home is probably built on. Radon is also an unstable gas with a short half-life that quickly dissipates into the air.
Natural stone used in your home all need to be cared for properly and treated well but with just a little accurate information you can enjoy your granite countertops or marble fireplace for many years to come. If you’re looking for granite as you remodel your kitchen or bathroom, contact Modlich Stoneworks by calling 614-859-6596 or stop by our showroom at 2255 Harper Road and a member of our superheroic team will be happy to save the day!
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