17 Cons of Granite Countertops You Need to Know
What? There are cons of granite countertops?!
Granite counters are a beautiful addition to any home. They have a luxurious look and feel that can make any kitchen or bathroom stand out.
However, there are some things about granite countertops that you should know before making the decision to install them in your home.
Here are 17 things no one may have told you about granite countertops.
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Cons of Granite Countertops #1:
Granite countertops and children may not mix well
Granite countertops may not be the best option if you have young children. Children are not always the most careful, and they can easily damage granite countertops.
Additionally, granite is a very hard material, so if your child falls or hits their head on a granite countertop, it can cause serious injury.
If you have young children, you may want to consider another type of countertop material.
Cons of Granite Countertops #2:
You need a special cleaner
To keep your counters looking their best, you really should use a granite cleaner like this one by Weiman [available on Amazon].
This special stone cleaning solution will help to protect the finish of your counters and prevent stains.
Do not use bleach, Windex, a disinfectant like Formula 409, or other harsh chemicals on granite countertops.
They can damage the surface and dull the finish of your countertops.
Cons of Granite Countertops #3:
Granite absorbs strong smells like garlic and onion
If you cook often, you may find that your granite countertops absorb strong smells like garlic and onion. Granite is a porous material, so it can absorb liquids and odors.
If you’re not a fan of the way your countertops smell, you may need to clean them more often.
If you do end up with a stinky granite countertop, though, make a thick paste out of cornstarch and club soda and use that to cover the area that smells bad.
Next, make a thick stack of paper towels (maybe 10 or so), and use the club soda to get these paper towels wet as well.
Lay your paper towels on top of the paste. Allow the towels to dry completely (overnight is best) before wiping off the paste.
The smell should disappear. Once the smell is gone, reseal your counters as soon as possible.
Cons of Granite Countertops #4:
You’ll need coasters
You can set a drink on a granite countertop, but you should use a coaster.
Granite is a porous material. If liquids are spilled and left on the countertop, they can seep into the granite and cause staining – or even bacterial growth.
Be sure to use a coaster or a trivet to protect your investment.
Cons of Granite Countertops #5:
Granite counters need to be sealed regularly
To keep your granite countertops looking their best, you need to seal them periodically.
Sealing your granite prevents stains and makes it easier to clean. Granite should be sealed every six months to a year, depending on how often you use your counters.
It’s a good idea to set a reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget.
Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your granite countertops. from stains.
Cons of Granite Countertops #6:
Granite is a natural material, so each piece is unique
Each piece of granite is unique because granite is a natural material.
If you have a large kitchen, it may be impossible to find enough pieces of granite that are identical to another.
This does not have to be a disadvantage, however, depending on your design aesthetic.
Cons of Granite Countertops #7:
Granite countertops will have seams
Granite countertops are cut from larger slabs of granite. This means that your countertop will have seams where the pieces of granite are joined together.
You can minimize seams by using granite that has a consistent color throughout, but they will still be at least somewhat visible.
Cons of Granite Countertops #8:
Granite is a porous material, which can harbor bacteria
Granite can absorb liquids. This also means that if liquids are absorbed, bacteria can grow in the granite’s pores.
Sealing the granite and cleaning it regularly with a disinfectant can prevent bacterial growth.
If there is bacteria growing in your granite, you may need to consult a professional to have it removed.
Cons of Granite Countertops #9:
You should dry granite counters after cleaning them
The best way to ensure that your countertops don’t end up with a smell is to dry them off each time that you clean them.
Granite counters should really just be dried off any time that they get wet. You never know when (or where) there is an area of your sealant not doing its job properly.
Cons of Granite Countertops #10:
Granite countertops are susceptible to scratches and etching
Granite is a hard surface, but sharp objects can still scratch or etch it.
Be sure to use cutting boards or placemats to protect your countertops from knives and other sharp implements.
Granite is also susceptible to acid etching. If you spill something acidic, like lemon juice or vinegar, on your countertop, it can dull the surface.
Using coasters, cutting boards, or trivets under acidic items can prevent acid etching.
Cons of Granite Countertops #11:
Granite counters are also susceptible to staining
Granite is a porous material, so it can absorb liquids. This means that if you spill something on your countertop, it may stain.
Stains in granite can be difficult to remove, so it is important to be careful with what you put on your countertop.
Granite stains can usually be removed. However, they may require the help of a professional.
Cons of Granite Countertops #12:
Granite can be water damaged
The sealant on your granite countertops will wear off over time, leading to the potential for water damage.
Granite is a porous material, so if water seeps into the granite, it can cause staining or even mold growth.
Be sure to check the sealant on your countertops regularly and reapply it as needed. A regular sealant schedule is a must.
Cons of Granite Countertops #13:
Granite can chip or crack
Granite is a very hard material. However, it can still chip or crack if it is hit by a heavy object.
Dropping a heavy pot or a pan on your granite countertop can cause it to chip, so be careful.
If your granite countertop does chip or crack, you may need to replace the entire countertop.
Cons of Granite Countertops #14:
Granite counters can be expensive
While granite countertops are a luxurious addition to any kitchen or bath, they can be expensive.
Granite countertops can range in price from $50 to $100 per square foot, depending on the quality of the granite.
If you’re considering granite countertops for your home, be sure to factor in the cost before making a decision.
This awesome calculator will help you calculate the square footage of your countertop and determine how many square feet of granite you will likely need.
Cons of Granite Countertops #15:
Granite is heavy
Granite is a heavy material, so be sure to check that your cabinets are strong enough to support the weight.
Countertops made of granite typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds per square foot.
If your cabinets are not strong enough to support the weight of the granite, you may need to have them reinforced or replaced.
Consulting with a professional before beginning any project is always the safest option.
Cons of Granite Countertops #16:
Granite is expensive to repair or replace
If your granite countertop is damaged, it can be expensive to repair or replace.
Repairs need to be done by a professional, and replacement countertops can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Granite countertops are not cheap, so be sure to take good care of them.
Cons of Granite Countertops #17:
Granite can be heat-damaged
Granite is a heat-resistant material, but it can still be damaged by extreme heat.
If you place a hot pot or pan on your granite countertop, it can cause the granite to crack or chip.
Always use a trivet or a hot pad when placing anything hot on your countertop.
Protecting your countertop from heat will help it last longer and save you from needing to make costly repairs.
Conclusion
Granite countertops are a beautiful and, overall, durable addition to any home, but there are definitely some things to keep in mind before making a purchase.
Weigh out the pros and cons of granite and think about your family and your own kitchen needs.
Granite countertops can last a lifetime with proper care, but they’re not right for everyone.
What do you think? Are you planning to install granite countertops in your home? Let us know in the comments!