Is it Really Granite?
Granite is a popular countertop material because it is durable, resistant to scratches, chips, and heat, and relatively easy to maintain compared to other types of natural stone. However, some stones that are definitely not granite are being sold as if they were. Here are some ways you may be able to tell.
Faux Granite
Vinyl countertop films and laminates are often printed with a granite pattern, and quartz or solid surfaces are created to look like granite. These materials cannot duplicate a natural granite slab’s true appearance and durability.
If your Granite Countertops are already Installed.
Perhaps you purchased a home with natural granite countertops already installed. Inspecting the seams’ colour, pattern, appearance, and porosity may help you determine whether the material is granite.
Colour & Pattern
If there is very little variation in the colour and pattern, or if there are no natural imperfections, you may be looking at something other than true granite. If you see repeated patterns, then this is a strong indication of man-made stone material.
Inspect the seams on the countertop. You should be able to see a change in the pattern. If you don’t, then the material is most likely not granite.
Porosity
You can check the porosity of the material by putting a few drops of water on the surface. If it is granite, it should darken as the water is absorbed unless the granite has been sealed.
If your natural graphite countertops are not yet installed.
You can make a couple of observations in a fabricator slab yard that may help you determine whether a slab is a genuine granite or real granite.
Sound
First, bring a small hammer or piece of metal with you. Gently tap the back end of the slab. If it is a true natural stone, it will produce a ringing sound. Engineered stone contains synthetic resins, and a tap on it will sound dull in comparison. Disclaimer: The only problem with this method is that the slab may be a natural stone that is not granite countertop or spot fake granite countertops. It may contain acid-sensitive minerals that will etch like marble.
Price
Second, pay attention to the price. Real, quality granite is rarely ever inexpensive. The material probably isn’t granite if the cost per square foot is suspiciously lower than other dealers in your area. And if it is granite, it probably isn’t a very good quality granite. You get what you pay for.
An Expert Opinion
We asked Fred Hueston, world-renowned natural stone expert, author of many books, instructional videos, and articles on natural stone installation, care, and graphite installation in the U.S. and abroad, and Chief Technical Director for surpHaces if there is any sure way to know whether a natural stone is really granite. He explains,
“It can be hard to tell but there are some clues. If it does not scratch with a knife and it doesn’t etch with a mild acid it could be granite. However, there are other stones that react the same, like quartzite, for example. Any natural stone restoration contractor worth their weight in salt, or should I say, marble dust, should be able to tell the difference.”
If it’s not Granite.
If you already have natural stone tops that are not holding up the way granite should or that prove to be something other than granite, you may not need to replace the fake granite stone. We can resolve a host of natural stone countertop problems, restore your countertops to a new condition, and provide cost-effective protective solutions to keep them looking great.
