Are Granite Countertops Radioactive?

Are Granite Countertops Radioactive?

Granite countertops have become a staple piece of furniture in many American households. During the past decades, their popularity skyrocketed, molding an accessible price range that only seems to get better with time. It’s no wonder that these products are equipped with long-term benefits – but some people still have their doubts. In particular, whether or not granite presents a threat to our health, considering how reckless some industries are when it comes to such standards. With that said, are granite countertops radioactive?

To find the answer to that, keep reading the article. If you’re looking for the perfect stone to your home, check out our complete guide on granite countertops to get a taste of their cost-benefit and applications.

So, are granite countertops radioactive?

No, granite countertops are not considered radioactive.

Whilst granite stones, like pretty much everything on the planet, do present some trace of natural radiation, they are far from being a key risk to health issues. In a way, they are as radioactive as the apple you eat or as the floor you step on.

You see, the minerals that form the stone can decay into a radon (in other words, a colorless gas that might be released from its surface over time), but its emission level is not nearly enough to hurt a fly. This chemical chain is what started the rumor in the first place, so we’re here to break it down for you.

What makes granite “radioactive”?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), high levels of radon do cause harmful effects in the human body. Even though granite stones do not release a significant amount of radiation, they still contain a little bit more of such components than, say, marble or quartz.

As mentioned, however, there’s no need to puzzle yourself with this question any longer. If you sat on a granite countertop for a whole year without moving, the radiation you’d get would be equivalent to a quarter of a person’s annual average exposure to sun rays, x-rays, and fuel, for example.

All in all, the fact that granite is a porous surface does have its credit. Since the absorption rate is high, the stone itself contains the gas inside it, so it doesn’t go much farther anyways.

How to care for your granite countertop

Now that we have relieved your worries, it’s safe to assume that you will be choosing your dream counter without fuss. Great, right?

Yet, although there’s no possible danger of radioactiveness, it’s important to take care of your granite periodically, even more if we’re talking about kitchens and bathrooms. That way, you’ll prevent other harmful factors such as bacteria and bugs from ever settling on its surface. Hygiene is everything!

Establishing a cleaning routine is the best way to go – as well as sealing your granite countertop every year. This will avoid faded coloration and small fissures from constant water absorption. Read all about sealers here.

Eagle Stones can give you a hand

If you live near Sarasota, FL, don’t hesitate to contact us as soon as you can. Our experts have been providing clients with stone supply – including granite, quartz, marble and onyx – and installation services for years, and we’re here to help you out with anything you need.

Click here to see the online catalog and get yourself a free estimate today!


You might also interest you: The Beauty of Leathered Granite Countertop Finishes

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram
Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram

Share This

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email
Share on telegram

Related Posts

Leave A Reply