Granite counter tops are one of the most popular options in American kitchens, but there are homeowners who steer away from them because they've heard some myths regarding the challenges of granite. The thing is that most of these myths are simply not true. Here's a look at some of the negative rumors you may have heard about granite counters—along with the truth they are hiding.
Myth: Granite Quickly Loses Its Shine and Becomes Dull
It's true that granite counters will become dull and lackluster if you don't care for them properly. Also, if you use harsh cleaners like bleach and scouring powder, you will dull the surface of the granite, and a gritty or rough sponge or cloth may also scratch the granite and wear away its shine. However, if you are careful to clean your granite with plain water, a gentle granite cleaner or dish soap, and soft sponges, it should stay shiny and new for years to come.
Myth: Granite Is Not Worth the Investment
Granite counter tops are significantly more costly than solid surface, tile, and butcher block counters. However, the idea that they are not worth this higher price tag could not be further from the truth. If you plan to sell your home at any point in the future, granite counters will not only increase your home's value, but it will also make it more appealing to buyers.
Surveys indicate that 55% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with granite counter tops. Further, they're willing to pay an average of $1,620 more for a home with granite counters; this means granite has a great return on investment.
Myth: Granite Is Dangerous Because It Gives off Radiation
Radiation originates from natural elements in rocks, including uranium, radium, and thorium. There may be veins of these elements running through any stone, including certain slabs of granite. If present, these elements may release radon, a radioactive gas, into the air.
However, even if a rare slab of granite does release radon, the EPA's position is that radon from building materials like granite counters is of little concern in comparison to that released from the soil beneath homes. Radon released by granite is diluted by ventilation systems, so its impact on health is minimal. According to the EPA, radiation from granite is highly unlikely to increase the annual radiation doses above normal background levels.
Myth: Granite Will Hold Onto Bacteria and Contaminate Your Food
As long as you choose a well-made, well-sealed granite counter top, like those from Best Marble & Granite Company, it should be impervious to bacteria because it will essentially be nonporous. All you should need to do to keep it sanitized is wipe it off with either dish soap and water or a specialty granite cleaner.
If you are especially worried about contamination, such as after slicing meat on your granite counter, you can clean it with a mixture of half water and half isopropyl alcohol. Let the mixture sit on the counter for about three minutes, and then wipe it away with a water-dampened, soft cloth.
Myth: Granite Will Shatter Anything You Drop on It
Some people avoid granite counters because they've heard that if they drop a glass or plate on the granite, that glass or plate will break. This is actually true, but it's also true of any other counter surface! The difference in hardness between granite and other counter top materials, like tile and stainless steel, is not so vast that it will make a huge difference in the likelihood of something you drop on it breaking. Don't let fear of a shattered plate keep you from enjoying a beautiful, durable granite counter top.
If you have any other concerns about granite counters, reach out to the experts at
Best Marble & Granite Company. We'll be happy to dispel any misinformation you may have heard and further explain the benefits of our stone counters.
