Do granite countertops crack?

Like most stone products, granite countertops can crack. However, doing this requires a great deal of force, usually the kind associated with a large falling body. Most granite countertops are guaranteed for more than 20 years, and barring a major disaster such as an earthquake or similar natural disaster, a granite countertop ought to last as long as the home in which it is installed.

Due to natural calamity

In case you live in a part of the country that is prone to tornadoes, hurricanes or floods, your granite countertop is at risk. Tornadoes and hurricanes can pick up debris, creating projectiles that can smash into a granite countertop. Tornado winds have been clocked at over 150 miles per hour in some parts of the country, and these winds can easily turn rocks and even trees into deadly bullets. While a granite countertop that makes contact with these projectiles is not likely to be smashed to bits after one impact, repeated impact can wear away at the countertop, eventually causing it to break.

If you live on a fault line, you are equally at risk of cracking your granite countertop. Falling debris and lumber from your home or establishment will most likely land on your countertop. If enough weight accumulates on the counter’s surface, it is certain to break.

Due to ambient heat

While granite is an igneous rock and is highly resistant to heat, constantly exposing a granite countertop to heat will wear away at it, and can cause it to break over time. Usually, people with granite countertops in their kitchen take pans right off the fire, and place them on their countertop. Eventually, a countertop treated this way will crack, or at the very least, develop pan burns on its surface.

Wear and tear

Having a 90-year old granite countertop may seem unlikely, but it is possible. These products are famous for their durability. However, counters that are this old will probably be very worn, due to accumulated wear and tear. Constantly rubbing against items and skin will diminish the protective finishing of a granite countertop. Eventually, the nonporous surface may give way to the rock core, which can absorb water and erode.

Warranty and maintenance information

Most granite countertops come with two separate warranties. One covers the finish of the granite countertop, while the other ensures its structural integrity. Usually, the one covering the finish of the countertop is significantly shorter. Neglecting to follow the care and maintenance tips that the manufacturers provide may void these warranties.

Generally, one of these maintenance tips is to use nonacidic cleaning agents. These can quickly erode a granite countertop’s shiny surface. Granite countertops do not need exotic cleaning agents, and usually wiping them down with a wet cloth is sufficient. Also, owners are urged to use heating pads or trivets for hot pans. Finally, using a cutting board for food preparation protects the countertop from unnecessary wear.