19 Jul Pitting in Natural Stone Countertops
Natural stone countertops like granite and marble often come with “pits” on the surface. These small imperfections are the result of the stone’s porous texture, and sometimes, they cannot be avoided. Even after tedious polishing and finishing, some pitting still remains no matter what. In this guide, we will explore the process of pitting in natural stone countertops and explain what you can do to keep these areas clean.
What Is Pitting in Natural Stone Countertops?
Granite, marble, and other stones have natural imperfections. This is what makes these materials so appealing. No two slabs are exactly alike. They are all uniquely designed by Mother Nature. During the stone’s development within the earth, pockets of air form that may appear to be divots once sliced into a slab. Some of these divots come out during the polishing process, but others are left behind even after being thoroughly worked on. Luckily, there is another part of the preparation process that prevents pits from causing cleaning problems in the future.
How Do Stone Countertop Installers Resolve Pitting?
Any pitting that is left behind after the process can be covered with a stone sealant. This product is similar to the sealant you might use on wood to protect it from staining or water damage. It fills in the pores left on the surface of the granite or marble to create a shield against liquids that may get trapped inside. The liquid is left can then be cleaned up accordingly. Most normal liquids that cause a residue will sit on the surface of your natural stone countertops and dissipate over time, so you don’t have to worry about them seeping in if they sit for too long.
Some Granite Is More Susceptible to Stains than Others
With proper sealing, most natural stone countertops are highly durable against stains and general wear. However, some stones are more susceptible to staining than others due to their structures. Darker granites and a higher PSI density (pounds per square inch), which combined with their darker colors helps to withstand stains and water marks. Lighter stones have a lower PSI, which makes them more porous and susceptible to potential stains and water marks. If you choose a light stone countertop, you may need to spend a little extra time cleaning the surface than you would with a dark countertop. We will go over these details with you during your consultation to make sure you choose the perfect stone for your specific needs.
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