The Pros and Cons of Granite

Understanding Granite and how to care for it

Granite is a great choice for nearly any kitchen because the investment truly does add lasting value to your home. Granite, when installed and maintained properly, can last for virtually a lifetime. For anyone looking to sell a home, granite countertops are a definite perk for perspective homebuyers, often increasing the resale value of the home. And, of course, when you love your kitchen, and how you feel in it, you’ll spend more time in it throughout the day.

The Cons of granite

Granite has some disadvantages as well. granite is very porous surface. This means staining occurs much more easily on granite than countertops made of other materials. Granite also doesn’t take to granite cleaners well. Most granite cleaners are best left for granite countertops not used often, or granite countertops that are sealed, leaving no porous surface behind. Too much granite cleaner can wear away the granite finish that makes it shine and allows it to stand up to stains better. The fact of the matter is, even if granite is properly sealed granite countertops still aren’t granite cleaner friendly.


Granite countertops also require more maintenance than most other surfaces in the kitchen. When granite countertops are new, they will often need to be resealed periodically until that granite sealer becomes part of the granite and no longer needs to be added. That means granite countertops need to be resealed every few years. Granite sealers are not cheap, and granite can’t be resealed by just anyone with any granite cleaner or granite sealer they happen to have laying around the house.


The Pros of Granite

Granite continues to remain one of the most sought after countertop materials today because it is a luxurious, beautiful stone. Since granite has become more affordable in recent years and kitchens can now look as amazing on a modest budget with this versatile material, your kitchen will not be an identical replica like those found at cookie cutter homes around town--but rather have its own individual lines homeowners love.


Proper sealing makes all the difference when caring for these stones over time so that they maintain their stunning appearance even longer.  Granite still remains highly desired due largely from its richly elegant appeal.

How to take care of Granite

One of the easiest ways granite can be taken care of is by investing in granite cleaner rather than granite sealer. granite cleaner is easy to come by, but granite sealer needs to be bought from granite shops or other specialty stores. Granite countertops are usually cheaper than other options, so the extra cost of granite cleaner may not seem too bad when it comes time to reseal granite countertops every few years.


Contact us to take care of your natural stone

The bottom line with granite is that granite requires more upkeep and special cleaner than most other surfaces in the kitchen.  If you are interested in a professional cleaning, contact us today!  We are experts and know how to take care of your natural stone.

Person wearing gloves sanding a dark surface with an electric sander, creating dust.

Polished vs. Honed Stone: Key Differences, Care Tips, and Ideal Uses

September 24, 2025
Compare polished vs. honed stone for your home or business. Learn the differences, care tips, and best applications with Marble Stone Polish.

Bathroom Stone Care: Preventing Mold, Mildew, and Water Damage

By Kaylee Toole • June 9, 2025
Natural stone brings elegance and luxury to bathroom spaces, but it also comes with unique maintenance challenges. Bathrooms are high-moisture environments where water exposure, humidity, and poor ventilation can lead to mold, mildew, and water damage if stone surfaces are not adequately cared for. Whether you have marble, travertine, limestone, or granite in your bathroom, the key to preserving its beauty is routine care and moisture control. 1. Choose the Right Stone and Finish Before we dive into care tips, it's essential to understand that not all natural stones are created equal in terms of moisture resistance. Granite and quartzite are denser and more resistant to water damage. Softer stones, such as marble, limestone, and travertine, are more porous and absorb moisture more readily. Polished finishes offer more protection against water and staining than honed or tumbled finishes. If you're remodeling, choosing a less porous stone or a sealed polished finish can reduce maintenance needs. 2. Seal Your Stone Surfaces Regularly Natural stone is porous, meaning it can absorb water, soap residue, and body oils. This absorption can lead to staining, etching, or mold growth over time. A high-quality penetrating sealer provides a protective barrier that repels moisture and contaminants, offering enhanced protection against environmental damage. How often you should seal your bathroom stone depends on the type of stone and the amount of use the bathroom receives. Generally, sealing once or twice a year is recommended for high-moisture areas, such as showers and floors. How to Test Your Sealant: Sprinkle a few drops of water on the stone. If the water beads on the surface, the seal is still effective. If it soaks in and darkens the stone, it’s time to reseal. 3. Improve Ventilation and Airflow Poor ventilation is one of the most significant contributors to mold and mildew growth in bathrooms. Without proper airflow, moisture lingers in the air and on surfaces, creating the perfect environment for mold spores. Tips to improve ventilation: Use an exhaust fan during and after showers Leave the bathroom door open when not in use Wipe down shower walls and countertops after use Use a dehumidifier if the bathroom lacks adequate airflow 4. Clean Regularly with Stone-Safe Products Cleaning natural stone surfaces with the right products helps remove residue before it can penetrate the stone or encourage the growth of mold. Avoid using bleach, vinegar, or acidic bathroom cleaners, as they can damage the surface and degrade the sealer. Instead, use: A pH-neutral stone cleaner A soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge A squeegee for glass and polished stone surfaces in the shower Clean shower walls and floors at least once a week. Wipe down vanities and countertops daily. 5. Address Grout and Caulk Lines Grout and caulk lines are often overlooked but are among the most vulnerable parts of a bathroom. They can crack, separate, or absorb moisture over time, providing a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Even sealed stone is at risk if the grout is compromised. Inspect grout and caulk regularly. Reseal grout annually, and replace cracked or deteriorated caulk as soon as possible. Mold that forms in grout lines should be treated quickly with a stone-safe mold remover. 6. Avoid Leaving Standing Water Leaving water to sit on your stone surfaces can lead to water spots, discoloration, or eventual deterioration of the sealant. This is especially important in stone showers and on bathroom vanities. After using the shower or washing your hands, make it a habit to: Wipe down countertops and sinks Squeegee water from the shower walls and floors Dry off any wet areas to prevent water from soaking into the stone 7. Watch for Signs of Water Damage Early signs of water damage include: Darkened stone or water rings Efflorescence (white powdery residue) Dull or etched spots on polished surfaces Musty odors or visible mildew If you notice any of these signs, take action immediately. You may need to reseal, deep clean, or, in some cases, consult a professional for restoration. Conclusion Natural stone can be a stunning and durable choice for bathrooms, but it needs special attention in wet and humid environments. Regular sealing, proper cleaning, moisture control, and maintenance of grout and caulk are crucial in preventing mold, mildew, and water damage. With a few consistent habits and the proper care routine, your bathroom’s stone surfaces can maintain their beauty and strength for years to come. If your stone is showing signs of wear or damage, consider consulting a professional for a deep cleaning, polishing, and sealing treatment to restore its original condition.