One of the most common practices in hardscape design is to incorporate some form of “cooking area” in the final concept of a project. This area can be as simple as the mere addition of a countertop for drinks and snacks or even entire kitchens. Granite is one of the best choices for outdoor countertops. But how does it behave under harsh weather conditions? Will granite crack in cold weather?
Many stones are not appropriate for outdoor use, but granite is one of the safest options you can go for. Let’s discuss why is granite such a good choice for outdoor use and how to properly use it and care for it so it can last a long time.
Granite is one of the toughest stones you can use for a countertop, and that is only one of its features. Do you want to know more? Then be sure to read our definitive guide on granite countertops!
Will Granite Crack In Cold Weather? What About Hot Weather?
To answer the question right away: yes. Granite will crack under cold weather.
Unless you seal it. Then it won’t crack.
Simple, right? The reason for that is that granite is a porous stone, and like any porous stone it will absorb water. In cold weather, this water will freeze inside the pores of the granite and then thaw, and repeat the cycle. This freeze-thaw cycle will eventually pressure the granite to the breaking point.
However, if you seal your granite countertop, it won’t even absorb the water in the first place, so you won’t have to worry about it getting cracked.
Granite is also extremely resistant to heat. It can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunlight, even in the hottest conditions, won’t get even close to damage granite. It won’t even cause the granite to fade.
Protecting Granite Outdoors
To protect the granite from weather conditions, including the cold, your first step is to seal it.
Granite is an incredibly resistant and versatile stone, but it is porous and will absorb water and any other kind of spill that falls on it. There’s no need to say how important sealing your granite countertop is if you plan to use it outside, especially in a “cooking area” scenario.
The sealant must be checked regularly to ensure it is working properly. To check for the quality of your sealant, simply spill a few drops of water on your countertop and wait for about 10 minutes. If the water is still there after 10 minutes, your sealant is still working properly. But if the granite absorbs the water it is time to re-seal your countertop.
Knives and other cutting tools should never get in contact with granite. They won’t damage the granite per se, but they can damage the sealant on top of it and force you to re-seal your countertop before due time. In fact, is the granite that can damage your blade, not the other way around.
The granite is so sturdy that it will cause your blade to dull when in contact with it. You should always use a cutting board when working on your granite countertop. Actually, you should always use a cutting board no matter the material of your countertop. There’s no good reason not to.
Another important aspect of protecting your granite countertop is knowing how to properly clean it. No mystery here, just use warm water and dish soap and you’re good to go. Avoid abrasive cleaners at all costs.
If you have a particularly sticky and resistant stain, simply let it simmer in warm water for a while before cleaning it with a soft sponge. No scrub brushes, bleach, vinegar, or ammonia. All of these things can damage your sealant and leave the granite susceptible to moisture.
Sealing Granite to Protect it Against the Cold
Granite is one of the best choices of natural stones to use in outdoor areas. It is incredibly resistant and easy to maintain. As long as you seal it, it will be protected against the cold and it won’t crack. A well-sealed granite countertop can last for years and years, so you want to make sure your countertop has been sealed as best as possible.
At Eagle Stones, we provide that job for you. Our trained professionals are ready to help you with every countertop installation and maintenance need you might have. Give us a call right now at +1 941-227-2000 or send us an email at sales@eaglestonesusa.com.
