It’s no secret that Americans love granite countertops for their kitchens and bathrooms. In 2016, 64% of new homes were constructed with granite counters. As a natural igneous stone, granite provides beauty to any kitchen or bathroom while withstanding normal usage.

But a few common myths may hold some people back from purchasing the granite countertop they want. You can find the perfect countertop or vanity with an experienced natural stone partner like Motor City Granite & Cabinets.

Learn about five of the biggest myths surrounding granite countertops and why they shouldn’t stop you from getting a beautiful countertop for your kitchen or bathroom.

Granite Countertops Are Too Expensive

The myth that granite is expensive is one of the main reasons people are reluctant to buy granite countertops. Many people feel that granite costs more than other countertop materials.

However, increases in worldwide granite supply, improvements in shipping, and refined manufacturing procedures have all driven granite prices down in recent years. At Motor City Granite & Cabinets, you can get a beautiful granite countertop for a competitive price.

Another factor in the cost of granite is durability. Other materials will fade much faster, while granite will require less frequent repairs and replacements, making it the more cost-effective option in the long run.

Granite and Marble Are the Same Thing

Many searching for a gorgeous kitchen or bathroom countertop may assume that granite and marble are the same due to their similar color and characteristic veining. But, while both are natural stones, they have a few key differences.

Granite is an igneous rock composed of feldspar and quartz from volcanic activity. Marble is formed from sedimentary deposits of ocean minerals and calcium carbonate transformed into solid rock by intense heat and pressure. These differences in the formation process give each stone varying physical and chemical properties.

Granite is harder and more durable than marble because it has lower porosity. Granite also comes in a broader range of colors and patterns, while marble is typically only available in white and black shades.

Granite Will Lose its Shine After a While

Many consumers believe a granite surface will lose its shine after years of use. But the reality is that granite keeps its natural shine much longer than materials such as marble.

Most natural stones require sealing to prevent moisture damage and create an attractive luster. Marble requires resealing every three to six months, while granite typically only requires annual resealing to maintain its natural shine.

If your granite counters appear dull, restoring their shine is easy without resealing. Apply a small amount of neutral cooking oil to a soft, lint-free cleaning cloth and buff the surface in small circular motions.

Granite Can Be Damaged Too Easily

Because granite countertops are so beautiful, some people fear that too many scratches or heat damage can ruin its appearance. But granite is one of the hardest countertop materials on the market.

Granite is highly durable against scratches and can withstand temperatures up to 1,200°F without suffering heat damage, making it an ideal material for kitchens and bathrooms.

Granite Countertops Emit Radiation

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, granite countertops are not considered a significant source of dangerous radiation in your home. If you are concerned about radiative materials escaping from granite countertops, sealant will contain traces of radon gas from the minerals inside the granite.

Find the Best Granite Countertops with Motor City Granite & Cabinets

Motor City Granite & Cabinets offers beautiful and durable granite countertops for your kitchen and bathroom. You can fill out our online questionnaire to get expert help with a granite countertop or any other home improvement project. Or call us at (248) 690-9537 for a free quote or consultation.