Granite. Is it Really?

Granite is a popular material for countertops due to its durability and heat resistance. However, some materials are being sold as granite when they are not. Here are some tips to determine if your countertops are made of genuine granite.

FAUX GRANITE Vinyl countertop films and laminates, as well as quartz or solid surfaces, can imitate the appearance of granite but lack its durability and authenticity.

IF YOUR COUNTERTOPS ARE ALREADY INSTALLED… Inspect the color, pattern, and seams of your countertop to determine if it is granite. Lack of variation, natural imperfections, and repeated patterns may indicate a man-made material. Porosity can be checked by putting a few drops of water on the surface. If it darkens, it’s likely granite, unless it’s been sealed.

IF YOUR COUNTERTOPS ARE NOT YET INSTALLED… Tap the back of the slab to hear a ringing sound for genuine natural stone, whereas engineered stone will sound dull. However, this method may not always be accurate. Be wary of suspiciously low prices, as quality granite is rarely inexpensive.

AN EXPERT OPINION According to Fred Hueston, a natural stone expert, a surefire way to tell if a stone is granite is to test it for knife scratches and mild acid etches. If it doesn’t scratch or etch, it’s likely granite or a similar stone like quartzite. A stone restoration contractor can also help identify the difference.

IF IT’S NOT GRANITE If your stone tops are not genuine granite, they may not hold up as well. Restoration and protective solutions are available to restore the countertops to their original condition.