What Causes Hairline Cracks in Granite Countertops?
Although granite is naturally heat resistant, having been formed by heat, constant exposure to heat over long periods of time can weaken the stone and cause cracking. The damage is significant, especially if the stone is cold when exposed to heat, and the temperature difference is significant.
Is hairline fissure normal?
However, non-structural cracks (hairline cracks) are more common in most homes and are sometimes unavoidable. They tend to appear near windows and doors and can appear for a variety of reasons. Identifying the cause and learning how to properly repair the crack can help you avoid similar situations in the future.
How to prevent granite from cracking?
Be aware of any excessive weight you place on your stone surface. If your kitchen counter design features a bar or island with an overhang, we add spacers and corbels to give an extra layer of protection against cracks. It is extremely important that your countertops are installed on a flat surface.
How much does it cost to repair cracked granite?
Cost of Repairing Chips, Cracks, or Resurfacing Granite Countertops Granite resurfacing, including polishing and sealing, ranges from $200 to $1,200, depending on the damage and work required. You can choose to repair small chips and cracks yourself using a DIY granite epoxy resin repair kit for $35 to $100.
Should I be worried about hairline cracks?
Hairline cracks less than a millimeter wide or slight cracks between one and five millimeters are usually not a concern. If you start noticing them they can usually be filled in and painted over as it is a crack in the plaster but not in the wall itself.
Will the paint cover the hairline cracks?
For deeper hairline cracks, you can use putty to fill the cracks before applying a fresh coat of paint to the affected area. However, if a large area has been affected, you will need to scrape off the paint, then sand the entire area to even out the edges before applying a new coat of paint.
Is it difficult to break granite?
Very difficult. So, the last thing you would expect is for a crack to develop on the surface of kitchen or bathroom counters. However, it is possible for granite to crack due to improper maintenance, wear and tear, and sometimes it can even be a natural part of the stone.
How to repair cracks in granite?
The most common method for repairing cracks and chips in granite countertops is to fill them with epoxy, acrylic, or another type of clear resin or adhesive. You can easily find products online that are designed to do this type of repair, and they are quite affordable.
How much does granite resurfacing cost?
Granite resurfacing, including polishing and sealing, ranges from $200 to $1,200, depending on the damage and work needed. You can choose to repair small chips and cracks yourself using a DIY granite epoxy resin repair kit for $35 to $100. Extensive damage may warrant a complete replacement or resurfacing.
How do you know if a crack is structural?
As the name suggests, structural cracks occur due to poor construction sites, overloading or poor soil bearing capacity… The telltale signs of structural cracks in your foundation are:
- Step cracks.
- Cracks in foundation slabs or beams.
- Large vertical cracks at bottom or top.
- Cracks measuring 1/8″ wide.
Is it normal for granite to have small cracks and pits?
Is it normal for granite to have small cracks and pits? Yes, additionally, looking at your stone, you will usually notice that all stones have veins and crystallizations which may appear to be cracks, but are actually native to the stone.
What to Use to Repair Hairline Cracks in Granite Countertops?
Hairline cracks can be repaired with epoxy resin and a hardener designed for granite and a small plastic putty knife. Granite repair kits contain all the tools and products needed to quickly complete the job. Thoroughly clean the counter before repairing it. Fill the crack with epoxy resin and smooth it out with the putty knife.
What Kind of Cracks Are in Granite Countertops?
Cracks in granite are most often “hairline”, but can be wider. The cracks can be short, long, superficial or over the entire thickness of the slab. Cracks usually occur at cutouts, edges and corners of the sink and cooktop. Most/all granite slab countertops are installed directly over cabinetry without a plywood substrate. This is normal and provides lots of support.
Is it OK to transport granite on a flat surface?
Transported Flat – Granite should never be transported flat for any reason. This can cause injury to anyone carrying it or damage floors or furniture. It can also cause a hairline crack in the granite which can then be a problem.
