Many myths and rumours surface every now and again concerning granite and particularly granite countertops.  In the November 15, 2001 issue of STONE magazine, its Technical Editor, Fred Hueston decided to take the bull by the horns.

We quote from his introduction:

'There are many rumours circulating about the use of granite in our industry and many of them are simply untrue.  Before I sat down to write this article I spent several hours on the Internet searching for information.  I could not believe what I found.  There are dozens of websites, which are distributing false information about the properties of granite.

The author lists a large number of alleged advantages claimed by the manufacturers of solid surfaces, which are generally a mixture of real stone in a matrix or polyester or acrylic resins, before going on to dispel eight major myths. The ones he addresses are:

• Granite can harbour harmful bacteria!  He points out that this is simply untrue and verified this fact with both the Center for Disease Control and The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health who found no evidence of it.
• Granite contains harmful radon gases!  We have reported on this issue at length in previous Granite Bulletins.  This article includes substantive evidence showing that this is untrue and points out … 'In terms of building materials, radon emissions from concrete, cement and gypsum could be of greater concern.'
• Granite cannot be repaired once it is scratched!  The author points out that most granite surfaces are almost impossible to scratch and, should the unlikely happen, there are a number of companies that sell equipment and abrasives for resurfacing and polishing granite.
• Solid Surfaces will not stain and granite will!  Another myth, particularly with natural stone in both surfaces.  Some granite needs to be sealed to eliminate staining – a simple, infrequent process.
• There are no granite sinks available!  Also untrue.   He points out that there are several manufacturers and that granite sinks add a very unique and elegant effect in a kitchen or bathroom.
• Solid surfaces will not burn or be affected by heat!  This is true of granite, but … manufacturers of solid surfaces claim heat resistance of up to 212 degrees F, while the average oven goes up to 400 degrees F.
• Granite countertops cannot be made seamless!  True only to an extent.  Modern methods allow extremely thin and barely noticeable seaming in granite; while granite is also available in such large slabs it eliminates seaming problems.
• Granite is difficult to clean! Totally untrue, as anyone who works on a granite countertop knows full well.

In the article, Fred Hueston unequivocally states the advantages of granite as being:

• Durable scratch-resistant surface
• Endless patterns and colours
• Each piece unique
• Lasting value – granite will last forever
• Will not burn when hot pots are set on it
• Stains can be removed
• Harbours no bacteria or radon
• Can be repaired if ever scratched
• Granite sinks are available

In conclusion, he quotes a stone fabricator who told him recently: "Although it looked pretty obvious to me, over the years I've got to realize that, apparently, not many consumers realize that the term 'solid surface' indicates nothing but a piece of plastic."