Granite countertops have long been associated with timeless beauty and durability—but that hasn’t stopped a wave of myths and misinformation from circulating. Whether you’ve heard that granite is high-maintenance, unsafe, or even “outdated,” it’s time to set the record straight.
At Crowley’s Granite & Quartz, we’ve installed thousands of granite countertops across the Portland area. We’ve heard all the common concerns—and we’re here to debunk the biggest misconceptions with real-world facts, professional insight, and decades of experience.
Myth #1: “Granite Is Outdated”
The Truth: Granite remains one of the most popular and in-demand natural stone surfaces on the market today.
While engineered quartz has gained traction, granite hasn’t lost its appeal. Its natural variation, rich veining, and durability continue to make it a top choice for homeowners, designers, and homebuyers alike.
Why It Persists:
- Trends in all-white kitchens or minimalism have spotlighted quartz.
- Some people associate granite with the heavy patterns of the early 2000s.
The Reality:
Modern granite slabs come in softer, more versatile tones—from crisp whites to subtle greys to dramatic blacks—that complement today’s kitchens just as beautifully as yesterday’s.
Myth #2: “Granite Is Hard to Maintain”
The Truth: Granite is one of the easiest natural stones to care for—when sealed properly, it’s nearly effortless to maintain.
Granite needs to be sealed every 1–2 years (a 15-minute DIY task), but daily care is as simple as:
- Wiping with a soft cloth and mild soap
- Avoiding harsh chemicals like bleach or vinegar
- Cleaning up spills promptly
Maintenance Misconception:
People often confuse granite with more delicate stones like marble, which are more prone to etching or staining. Granite, when sealed, is tough and resilient.
Myth #3: “Granite Stains Easily”
The Truth: Granite is naturally stain-resistant—when properly sealed, most liquids won’t penetrate it at all.
What Causes Staining?
- Failing to seal the stone
- Letting oil, wine, or acidic liquids sit for extended periods
How We Prevent It at Crowley’s:
- We professionally seal every granite installation
- We show homeowners how to test their seal and reapply as needed
- We recommend dark or speckled granites for kitchens prone to spills
Bonus Tip: You can always test your seal by dripping water on the surface. If it beads up, your seal is still intact.
Myth #4: “Granite Isn’t Safe for Food Prep”
The Truth: Granite is perfectly safe for food prep and does not harbor bacteria when properly cleaned and sealed.
In fact, studies have shown that granite is more sanitary than many other surfaces—including some plastics and laminates—when maintained properly.
Food Safety Fast Facts:
- Granite is non-toxic and naturally resistant to bacteria
- Sealing helps block pores that could otherwise absorb liquids
- Daily cleaning with warm water and soap is all you need
Of course, like any surface, you should always use a cutting board to protect both your knives and your stone.
Myth #5: “Granite Chips or Cracks Easily”
The Truth: Granite is one of the hardest and most durable surfaces available for countertops.
It’s resistant to:
- Chips from regular use
- Cracks from thermal shock
- Dents from heavy kitchen tools
That said, no surface is indestructible. Dropping a cast iron pan on an edge could cause a chip—but it’s rare and usually repairable.
What We Do:
- Use CNC templating and expert fabrication for structurally sound installs
- Reinforce sink and overhang areas to prevent stress fractures
- Offer chip and crack repair options if needed
Final Thoughts: Granite Myths—Officially Busted
Granite isn’t just durable and beautiful—it’s also surprisingly low-maintenance, timeless, and safe. Many of the rumors you’ve heard stem from outdated information or confusion with other materials.
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or building from scratch, granite remains one of the smartest choices you can make for performance and visual impact.
Still have questions or doubts? Let our team walk you through the truth in person.
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Crowley
Written by Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
With over 20 years serving homeowners across Portland, Crowley’s is a trusted name in natural stone countertops. Our team brings transparency, craftsmanship, and hands-on expertise to every project—from consultation to installation to long-term care.