How to Prevent Chips and Cracks in Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are the best for any modern home due to their durability and beautiful nature. Despite being tough, they are not totally resistant to destruction. Without proper care, chips and cracks may appear with time, affecting both functional and aesthetic aspects of your countertop. This article will provide you with different ways through which you can avoid chips and cracks in your granite and keep it intact for many years.

Understanding the Causes of Chips and Cracks in Granite Countertops

Even though granite countertops are really durable, chip and crack can still happen when neglected. Impact damage is one of the most common forms of damage in granite countertops. Often it happens due to falling heavy objects such as pots and pans on it, especially at weak points like edges and sink cutouts. Cracks will also be caused by temperature fluctuations, as any extreme and sudden change in heat and cold makes the granite expand and contract, thus affecting stress to the stone. Poor installation, such as poor support over areas, especially overhangs, puts a strain on the granite, which can make it crack over time. Lastly, failure to seal the granite on a regular basis allows moisture to seep into it, thus weakening from within. Identifying the causes of each of these will provide a clear understanding of how to apply the right preventative measures that keep your granite countertops away from repairs, which can also be expensive.

Use Proper Support for Heavy Appliances

Granite countertops are bound to crack if there is no appropriate support, especially in cases where heavy appliances had to be placed on it. They tend to have weaknesses in unsupported areas with time, particularly if too much weight was applied to those locations. Additional support beams should be attached under those areas that will support the weight of other appliances like microwaves or dishwashers. This also disperses the weight accordingly on the surface of the countertop so as not to create cracks. This will be a guarantee that all areas of the countertop are accordingly supported, including beneath major appliances, for the maintenance of structural integrity in the granite and avoidance of expensive repairs afterwards.

Avoid Placing Hot Items Directly on the Granite Surface

Granite countertops are highly resistant to heat, but it is possible for damage to occur with long exposure. Thermal shock can also occur due to sudden changes in temperature, especially large ones created by extremely hot pots and pans. Always use trivets, heat-resistant mats, or potholders for protection. Although granite will withstand moderate heat, high temperatures over time with no protection weaken the structure and finish of the material. To ensure your countertops last in the best manner possible, avoid putting hot cookware directly onto the granite.

Seal Your Granite Countertops Regularly

Sealing your granite countertops on a regular basis is very important in protecting them from moisture, stains, and possible cracks. Granite is a type of porous material that easily absorbs liquids, which may result in internal weakening in period of time. Using an excellent quality granite sealer keeps water, oils, and all other liquids from seeping into the stone by forming a barrier. It is recommended to reapply annually, or more often if your kitchen sees its fair share of use. Pour a little water onto the surface if it absorbs, it’s time to reseal. This preventive measure will keep your countertops both tough and looking good.

Clean Granite Countertops with Non-Abrasive Cleaners

Clean your granite countertops only with gentle cleaners to preserve the quality. Bleach or ammonia with other harsh chemicals, will wear away the sealant covering the granite and affect the surface of the countertop. Remember to use pH-balanced cleaner specifically for natural stone to avoid scratching or dulling the finish of your countertop. In daily cleaning, a mild soap in warm water with a soft cloth is quite effective. Avoid the rough scrubbing pad that causes micro-scratches, which, over time, will weaken the stone. Cleaning with gentle products regularly will keep the countertop shiny and prevent long-term damage.

Be Mindful of Sharp and Heavy Objects

Granite is a resilient countertop material, yet chipping or cracking can occur if sharp or heavy items fall upon it. Cuttings boards are always recommended while preparing food to keep the sharp knives from coming into contact with the stone, a move that causes damage on the surface of such countertops. Heavy cookware items, like those made of cast iron, for instance, should be handled carefully to prevent dropping on the countertop or setting down roughly, an occurrence that causes chips, more so around the edges of a countertop. Lift heavy items carefully and lower them in place rather than letting them fall to avoid risk of your granite countertops. These easy practices will go a long way toward protecting your granite countertops and making them last for many years.

Address Minor Chips and Cracks Immediately

Taking care of minor chips and small cracks as soon as possible will help prevent further damage to the granite countertops. Chips tend to increase in size over time, requiring more extended forms of repair. Minor chips and cracks can be easily repaired using either a granite repair kit or an epoxy resin to keep the surface smooth and intact. Larger cracks and larger damages are, however, better handled by a professional to avoid further damage. If these minor damages are repaired immediately, they will preserve the strength and look of the countertop, thereby not leading to more costly repairs later on.

Conclusion

Granite is a long-term investment in your house, and taking good care of it will keep it in excellent condition. Knowing the different causes of chips and cracks, taking their prevention measures such as using trivets, sealing regularly, and setting heavy objects down carefully, will go a long way toward sustaining the surface’s durability. By following tips provided here will help you enjoy your granite countertops for many years in beauty and functionality.

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