7 Common Mistakes to Avoid with Granite Countertops

Granite is a top choice for countertop materials, prized for its toughness, longevity, and diverse color and style options. Its durability might lead you to believe it’s nearly indestructible, but without proper care, granite countertops can suffer scratches, stains, and other damage. Experts highlight six critical actions to avoid to keep your granite surfaces in top condition.

Avoiding Acidic Spills

If you spill something on a granite countertop, clean it up right away. “Leaving liquids on the surface for too long can cause them to seep through and leave stubborn stains,” cautions Tim Wood, founder and CEO of Fix It Today.

Acidic substances like coffee, wine, orange juice, or tomato sauce are particularly problematic. Brandon Walker, construction manager at ASAP Restoration, notes that these liquids can etch and stain the granite’s surface.

“Even sealed granite can be porous, allowing spills to penetrate and stain if left unattended,” says Matthew Coates, managing partner at Coates Design Architects + Interiors. To prevent lasting damage, always clean spills immediately.

Ignoring Oil Spills

Oil spills, like acidic ones, should never be left on granite countertops. Walker emphasizes that all types of oils can seep into the porous surface, leading to permanent stains. “Granite may appear smooth and solid, but it’s actually porous,” he explains. “If you spill avocado oil while cooking, clean it thoroughly with soap and water before it sets, or you’ll face a stain that’s nearly impossible to remove.”

Avoiding Abrasive Cleaners

The way you clean spills is crucial. Wood advises against abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as they can scratch granite surfaces. “While granite is tough, it’s not scratch-proof,” he notes. He also cautions against harsh chemicals like vinegar, hydrochloric acid, or bleach, which can degrade the sealant over time.

Coates includes lemon juice in the list of harmful substances, explaining the consequences of sealant erosion. “The sealant shields the stone, and without it, the surface becomes more susceptible to stains and damage. Over time, the softer areas of the stone can erode at a microscopic level,” he says. This leads to permanent etching, which can only be fixed by refinishing or honing the entire countertop—a costly and time-consuming process.

For safe cleaning, Coates suggests using gentle, pH-balanced cleaners. A mix of warm water and mild dish soap is often sufficient.

Preventing Repeated Exposure to Extreme Heat

Although sealed granite is less prone to staining, Wood highlights its vulnerability to prolonged exposure to high heat. “Regularly placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface can degrade the sealant, increasing the risk of stains,” he explains. To prevent this, Wood recommends using trivets or coasters for hot items.

“Granite can handle heat to a certain extent, but extreme temperatures may cause thermal shock, potentially leading to cracks, especially along natural veins,” Coates notes. He shares that he’s witnessed this firsthand and emphasizes the importance of using heat-resistant pads or trivets under hot cookware to protect the surface.

Avoiding Sharp Objects

Granite countertops are not designed for cutting. “While granite is highly durable, using it as a cutting surface can lead to scratches,” Coates warns. He also points out that this habit damages knives, dulling them quickly. Always use a cutting board to protect both your countertops and knives.

Sharp objects like knives and abrasive tools such as steel wool can create tiny scratches on granite, Walker explains. “These micro-scratches not only disrupt the surface’s smoothness but also make it more susceptible to further damage from other elements,” he adds.

Walker explains that minor scratches can let acids and cleaning agents seep through the sealed surface. “Once they penetrate, they can reach the porous layers of the granite, potentially damaging the entire slab,” he cautions.

Avoiding Standing on Countertops

If you’ve ever climbed onto your countertops to change a light bulb or reach something high, consider using a ladder next time. “Granite is strong, but it’s not designed to bear excessive weight without consequences,” Walker notes.

While properly supported countertops might handle some weight, Walker warns that weakened or degraded supports could lead to the slab breaking. “To prevent accidents, avoid standing on the counters altogether. If you must, distribute your weight evenly to minimize pressure on any single spot,” he suggests.

Regularly Resealing Countertops

Coates advises regularly resealing granite countertops with a food-safe sealer to maintain their quality. “Neglecting this can lead to increased vulnerability to scratches, stains, and a dull appearance over time,” he explains.

The sealant acts as a protective barrier, preventing liquids and stains from penetrating the granite, Coates emphasizes. Ensuring your countertops are well-sealed is a worthwhile effort to preserve their longevity.

A simple test can determine if resealing is needed. “Sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface—if they bead up, the seal is intact. If the water soaks in, it’s time to apply a new coat,” Coates suggests.