Once something gets popular, the backlash begins. From press coverage to word of mouth, there’s no shortage of negative misinformation about granite surfaces. At the height of popularity only a few short years ago, granite now suffers from a poor reputation in some circles. If you are interested in a granite surface, but you are wary of possible drawbacks– consult Stoneworks guide below to ease your mind.
MYTH #1: “Granite is radioactive!”
While some material sold as granite can be exposed to radioactive radon gas, the available information on the subject is often confusing. This is because commercial interests fund studies biased towards their own perspectives. Granite producers want nothing to do with the word “radioactive” and competitors are all too happy to point it out. The reality is that there can be many sources of radon gas throughout a property and regular radon testing should be done (whether or not you have granite surfaces).
MYTH #2: “Stainproof? Heatproof? Scratchproof? Granite sounds too good to be true.”
This myth is partially correct– no material could ever be totally invincible! The truth is granite has many different qualities, but the strongest varieties are among the most durable surfaces available. Like any product, defects can occur– which is why caution should be taken with any surface. Use best practices to ensure your granite lasts a lifetime: clean stains immediately, use trivets and potholders and avoid direct impacts.
MYTH #3: “All granite is porous, so I will have to reseal it again and again.”
This myth is a major generalization, as every kind of granite could never be put into one category. Granite surfaces range from quite dense to extremely porous, so different amounts and kinds of sealant may be recommended. If you wish to avoid constant re-sealing, ensure your granite is dense, durable and well cared for.
MYTH #4: “Granite surfaces hold more bacteria than other materials.”
A popular jab at porous stone types, but it is simply untrue. Granite surfaces are no more or less susceptible to bacteria than most other materials. As with any counter or high-traffic area, regular cleaning and disinfection is the only way to confidently remove harmful bacteria.
If you believed any of the myths above before you read the article, you should be encouraged to do more research. If you need a hand, contact or visit Stoneworks today and our granite experts can walk you through all of your options.
