Granite Rodding: The Good, The Bad, and The Repair Process (Los Angeles, CA)
Granite countertops have been a staple in Los Angeles homes for decades. They’re durable, elegant, and add value to any kitchen or bathroom. But if you’ve noticed a long, straight crack in front of or behind your sink, you may have an issue caused by an outdated fabrication method: rodding.
At Sureshine Care and Restoration Services, we specialize in repairing cracks caused by failing steel rods inside your granite countertops. Let’s explore why rodding was used, why it fails, and how we fix it for homeowners in Los Angeles.
What Is Granite Rodding?
Granite rodding was introduced in the late 1980s and became common in the 1990s and early 2000s. Fabricators would insert a steel rod into the underside of the granite to reinforce weak areas, especially around sink cutouts and cooktop openings.
The goal was to prevent breakage during transportation and installation. But while the idea made sense at the time, it led to an unexpected long-term issue—rust.
Why Does Granite Rodding Fail?
Los Angeles homeowners with older granite countertops are now seeing the problems caused by rodding. Here’s why:
1. Steel Rods Rust When Exposed to Moisture
Water can seep into the granite through small gaps in the sink’s caulk or seams. Once moisture reaches the rod, it starts to rust and expand inside the countertop.
2. Expansion Leads to Cracks
As the rusting steel expands, it puts pressure on the granite. This pressure causes a straight-line crack along the front or back of the sink.
3. Polyester Adhesive Shrinks Over Time
Most rodding was done using polyester resin adhesive, which isn’t waterproof. Over time, it separates from the stone, leaving the rod vulnerable to moisture.
These issues mean that if your countertop has rodding, failure is just a matter of time.
How Sureshine Repairs Rodding-Related Granite Cracks
At Sureshine, we offer professional granite crack repair that eliminates the root cause of the problem while restoring your countertop’s beauty and durability.
Step 1: Evaluation
We assess the crack using photos or an in-person inspection to determine the extent of the damage.
Step 2: Rod Removal
If possible, we cut and remove the rusting rod to prevent further damage.
Step 3: Structural Bonding
We bond the granite back together using high-performance structural adhesives designed specifically for granite repair.
Step 4: Refinishing & Sealing
Once the repair is complete, we polish and seal the area to blend seamlessly with the rest of the countertop.
Does My Countertop Need Repair?
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to consider professional granite repair:
- Long, straight crack near the sink or cooktop.
- Crack appears to be growing over time.
- Water staining or dark spots near the crack.
- A raised or uneven area around the crack.
Ignoring these issues can lead to more severe damage, making repairs more difficult and costly.
How Long Will the Repair Last?
Once we remove the failing rod and complete the repair, your countertop should last for the lifetime of the stone. As long as you maintain it with proper cleaning and sealing, the repair should remain strong and seamless.
We stand by our work with a one-year warranty on all structural repairs where rodding is removed.
Get a Free Estimate for Granite Crack Repair in Los Angeles
At Sureshine, we offer a quick and easy evaluation process. Instead of scheduling an in-home visit, you can simply upload photos of your damaged countertop, and we’ll provide a repair estimate within 24 hours.
Upload Your Photos for a Free Estimate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rodding still used in granite countertops?
A: No, most modern fabricators in Los Angeles and beyond have stopped using steel rods. Today, fiberglass or carbon fiber rods are preferred since they don’t rust.
Can a cracked granite countertop be repaired without removing the rod?
A: In some cases, yes—but removing the rusting rod is the best long-term solution to prevent further damage.
Will the repaired area be noticeable?
A: No, our color-matching and polishing techniques ensure that the repair blends seamlessly with the rest of your countertop.
How long does a rodding repair take?
A: Most repairs are completed in one day, and you can use your sink again after the adhesive cures.
What areas do you serve in Los Angeles?
A: We provide granite crack repair throughout LA County, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Pasadena, and surrounding areas.
Contact Sureshine for Expert Granite Crack Repair in Los Angeles
Don’t wait until a small crack becomes a bigger problem. If you’ve noticed a crack in your granite sink area, let the experts at Sureshine Care and Restoration Services restore it to like-new condition.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
