How Long Do Granite Countertops Last? – More Than You Expected!

Introduction 🪨

Granite is a natural stone that originates from pure stone quarries. These stones undergo a process of polishing, cutting into thin slabs, and fabrication into countertops.

Before you embark on using granite countertops, a fundamental question should arise: How long do granite countertops last?

The average lifespan of granite countertops is between 20-30 years. With meticulous care, these granite countertops can surpass 30 years. Moreover, if the granite is of exceptional purity, its lifespan may extend even further.

But that’s not all there is to know. Various factors influence the longevity of countertops, and there are essential maintenance tips to enhance their durability.

In this article, we’ve covered everything mentioned above. So, keep on reading. 📖

How Long Do Granite Countertops Last?

How Long Do Granite Countertops Last?
Image Credit: stonelinkcorp.com

Now, let’s delve into the longevity of granite countertops. 🪶 According to the MOHS scale of hardness, granite scores between 6-7 on a scale of 1-10. But how long can you expect your granite countertop to endure? 🕰️ The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. In general, with regular use, you can anticipate it lasting around 20-30 years. 🏡

However, the actual lifespan depends on factors like maintenance and usage. If you pamper it with proper care and handle it with caution, you might just extend its life to a robust 30+ years. 🌟

A table is given below for a quick overview –

Longevity of Granite Countertops
Regular Use 20-30 Years
Use with proper maintenance 30+ Years
Rough use without proper maintenance Below 20 Years

Which Factors Affect the Longevity of Granite Countertops?

how often should you seal granite countertops

There are Nine factors that affect the longevity of granite countertops. Keep these considerations in mind when choosing granite countertops. Now, let’s delve into these crucial factors. 🏡

01. Sustainability

A single quarry can supply stone for countless residential and commercial projects for centuries. Granite, in its natural state, stands out as a countertop material. Unlike engineered materials, granite doesn’t produce toxic chemicals or harmful emissions.

02. Heat Resistance

Granite countertops don’t succumb to heat; they won’t melt or explode. This natural material is among the most heat-resistant elements for countertops. Feel free to place hot pans directly on the surface without causing damage. 🌡️ Using a trivet, however, can enhance the countertop’s longevity.

03. Scratch Resistance

On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, granite scores 7 out of 10. It means very few minerals can scratch a granite countertop. While you can cut directly on it, beware that it may damage your knife. 🔪

04. Repairs

Cracks on granite countertops are rare, but if they occur, professional repair is recommended. Contact the installer, who can use color-matched epoxy to fill the crack. In case of chips, superglue can be used temporarily.

05. Sealing

Granite is liquid-absorbent, but don’t fret if water sits on it; it evaporates. Speed up the evaporation process with poultices. Most countertops come with pre-installed sealing for added convenience. 💧

06. Maintenance

Granite countertops are low-maintenance. While repair and resurfacing needs are minimal, occasional painting might be required. With advanced sealing technology, re-sealing is typically necessary every 10 years. Re-application, if needed, can be done easily. 🛠️

07. Stain Resistance

Darker granite is denser and may not require sealing, while lighter ones may need multiple coats. Overall, granite is considered a stain-resistant surface.

08. Genuine Natural Material

Granite is a purely natural material, distinct from engineered granite created in labs. The former is quarried from the earth in its natural state, while the latter lacks the same authenticity.

09. Resistance to Chemicals

Granite countertops rank high in chemical resistance. However, exercise caution with certain chemicals that may harm the seal, necessitating re-sealing. ⚠️

How Often Should You Seal the Granite Countertops?🏡

granite lifespan

Most granite countertops don’t require any sealing, but some do. Experts recommend re-sealing your granite countertops every 3-5 years.

However, it’s not necessary to do so frequently. Some experts even suggest that there is no need to reseal within 10 years, generally. But, if anything harms the seal, you will need to seal the granite countertop before the recommended time. ⏳✨

What’s the Best Replacement for granite countertops?

We all know that granite countertops are the most popular countertops in the market but when it comes to choosing it for your home, there will be many options in your mind.

Now the question is What’s the Best Replacement for granite countertops?

Granite is not always the best option and it doesn’t fit everyone’s taste. That’s why some other countertops in the market are the best replacement for granite countertops.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are also one of the most famous countertops in the world. It’s an engineered type surface that is blended with many types of natural quartz and rock-solid binders. It’s incredibly durable and luxurious.

Read also: How to Save Money on Quartz Countertops? – 6 Tips for You

Stainless Steel Countertops

A few years ago Stainless steel wasn’t considered a countertop material but at this time stainless steel is considered the best replacement for granite countertops.

It is a good option for backsplashes. It is also a clean and lightweight material. It is easy to maintain, clean, and serve food on.

Concrete

Concrete is not normally used as countertops but it’s very durable and heat resistant. There are many types of concrete countertops available in the market these days. It can be a great replacement for granite countertops.

Granite Or Quartz: Which One Lasts Longer?

Granite purely comes from natural material but quartz doesn’t. Granites are quarried directly from the earth and cut into slices but quartz is a kind of material that is blended with many kinds of natural materials and rock-solid binders.

Quartz is generally harder and more durable than granite. That’s why it will last longer but there are disadvantages to quartz. The surface of quartz is made of resulin, that’s why it can take more than 150° of heat. If you put a pan out of the oven directly on the quartz, it will create permanent damage on the surface.

It is up to you which countertop you choose for your home. The quartz countertops are artificial and durable but take serious damage. On the other hand, granite is 100% natural and doesn’t take any serious damage.

Maintenance Guide to Increase the Longevity of Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are so beautiful and durable. But it’s necessary to maintain the countertops to increase their longevity. Here I’ll provide you with a complete guide on the maintenance of granite countertops.

1. Clean Granite Countertops Regularly🧼

Granite is stain resistant but when some liquid like coffee or beer spills on it, it can cause discoloration. So try to clean it immediately. It would be best to clean the surface after every use.

2. Avoid Heat🔥

Granite countertops are heat resistant but it is good to avoid heat while using. Prolonged heat can cause a crack on the surface. The heat also creates damage day by day which affects the lifespan of the countertop. Just use a trivet under the pan when you put it on the surface.

3. Seal Your Granite Countertops🛡️

Most Granite countertops don’t require any sealing but some do. It’s better to use sealing on the surface to avoid any kind of possible damage such as discoloration.

Granite is a liquid-absorbing material. If you keep water on it for a long period of time, it will absorb it and it evaporates too but some liquids can cause slight damage like discoloration. That’s why it’s recommended to seal your granite countertops.

But how often should you seal the granite countertops?

Well, I think you can seal the granite countertop once every few months if you notice dark marks or rings developing on it. And if it seems okay then sealing it once a yer will be enough.

4. Use the Proper Cleaning Products🧴

The wrong type of cleaner like acid-based liquids can cause serious damage to the countertops. That’s why you need to use the proper cleaning products.

You can check the information material that comes with your countertop to know which type of cleaner you should use to clean your countertop.

5. Don’t Stand or Sit on the Countertops🚫

Granite countertops contain gaps that run through the stones. If you place a lot of weight, it can create a crack on the surface of the countertops. That’s why it would be best to not sit or stand on the countertops.

Granite countertops are very durable and beautiful. If you take good care of it, it can last more than 30 years.🌈✨

Conclusion

Hopefully, You may get an idea about How long do granite countertops last?

I think you already got the result that you were looking for. I tried to include almost every factor of a granite countertop. If you are done reading then go and buy a countertop for your home or if you already got one please take care of it.

You may read our popular article: What Countertop Would Look Good With Hickory Cabinets?

Helen Knight
Helen Knight

I'm passionate about cooking and making simple, delicious recipes that you can always feel confident feeding to friends and family. My goals for you are to have fun in the kitchen, learn new things, and create beautiful dishes. I have a lot of experience using kitchen appliances, so making great food is my passion and my favorite thing to share with others. I prioritize food safety in all of my meals. Check out my blog SKI, for helpful tips and tricks to improve your own cooking skills. Let's explore the world of food together!

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