How to Maintain a Crack-Free Granite Countertop: Tips for Los Angeles & Orange County Homeowners
Granite countertops are a durable and beautiful addition to homes in Dallas, Fort Worth, Frisco, and surrounding areas. But even the toughest stone surfaces can develop cracks, chips, or other structural issues over time.
At Sureshine Care and Restoration Services, we’ve seen preventable countertop damage in homes throughout Newport Beach, Beverly Hills, and Irvine. With proper care, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your granite surfaces.
Top Causes of Granite Countertop Cracks
Before discussing maintenance tips, it’s important to understand what causes cracks in granite countertops. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Heavy Impact
Dropping a heavy object such as a cast iron pan or a large appliance can cause surface cracks or chips.
2. Structural Weaknesses
Many countertops have weak points near the sink or seams. If your granite has an old steel rod inside, rust can cause cracks over time.
3. Thermal Shock
Placing hot pans or baking trays directly on the granite can lead to expansion and contraction, weakening the stone.
4. Improper Cleaning & Sealing
Using harsh chemicals like bleach, vinegar, or ammonia can degrade the stone and make it more prone to cracking.
How to Prevent Cracks in Granite Countertops
By following these simple maintenance tips, Los Angeles and Orange County homeowners can keep their granite countertops looking flawless:
1. Use Cutting Boards & Trivets
Never place hot cookware directly on the countertop always use a trivet or heat-resistant pad. Likewise, using a cutting board instead of chopping directly on the stone prevents scratches and micro-cracks.
2. Clean with pH-Neutral Products
Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners. Instead, use a specialized granite-safe cleaner that preserves the stone’s natural beauty.
3. Reseal Your Countertops Regularly
Granite is porous, so applying a high-quality sealer at least once a year prevents moisture from weakening the stone.
4. Watch for Signs of Damage
If you notice small cracks, chips, or seam separations, address them quickly to prevent further deterioration.
5. Schedule Professional Inspections
Having a professional inspect and polish your granite every few years keeps it in like-new condition.
When to Call a Professional for Granite Repair
If your countertop is showing signs of damage, don’t wait until the problem worsens. Cracks and chips can spread over time, leading to expensive replacements.
Sureshine offers expert granite crack repair in Los Angeles, Orange County, and surrounding cities like Laguna Beach, Pasadena, and Huntington Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I reseal my granite countertop?
A: Most homeowners should reseal their granite once a year to protect against moisture and staining.
What’s the best way to clean granite daily?
A: Use a mild pH-neutral cleaner or warm water with a soft cloth. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners.
Will a hairline crack get worse over time?
A: Yes! Small cracks can expand with daily use, making early repair essential.
Does sealing prevent granite from cracking?
A: Sealing helps protect against moisture, but it won’t prevent cracks caused by impact, pressure, or structural weakness.
What areas do you serve?
A: We provide granite repair in Los Angeles and Orange County, including Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, Beverly Hills, and Pasadena.
Protect Your Granite Countertops with Sureshine
Proper maintenance is the key to keeping your granite countertops crack-free. If you’ve noticed signs of wear or damage, Sureshine can help restore them to their original beauty.