5 Common Mistakes with Granite & Hard Stone
5 Common Mistakes with Granite & Hard Stone
Granite is one of the toughest natural stones - but "tough" doesn't mean "indestructible". These mistakes slowly degrade even the hardest surfaces.
Mistake #1
Assuming granite never needs sealing
Why this is a problem
Many people hear "granite is hard" and skip sealing entirely. While granite is less porous than marble, it still absorbs oil and coloured liquids over time - especially around hob areas and sinks.
How to fix it
Clean with Lithofin MN Power-Clean, let dry fully, then apply Lithofin MN Stain-Stop. One application lasts years.
Prevention
Do the water-drop test yearly: place a few drops of water on the surface. If they darken the stone within 5 minutes, it's time to reseal.
Mistake #2
Using bleach to remove stains
Why this is a problem
Bleach doesn't damage granite chemically, but it can discolour darker granites permanently, leaving lighter patches that cannot be reversed.
How to fix it
If discolouration has occurred, a colour-enhancing treatment with Lithofin MN Colour Intensifier can sometimes even out the appearance.
Prevention
Use Lithofin MN Power-Clean for stubborn stains instead of bleach. It's a strong alkaline cleaner that won't affect stone colour.
Mistake #3
Cutting food directly on the granite surface
Why this is a problem
Granite won't scratch from a kitchen knife - but the knife will dull. More importantly, repeated cutting in the same spot can damage the sealant layer, creating vulnerable entry points for stains.
How to fix it
Re-seal the affected area with Lithofin MN Stain-Stop after cleaning.
Prevention
Always use a cutting board. It protects both the sealant and your knives.
Mistake #4
Placing hot pans directly on the surface
Why this is a problem
Granite itself handles heat well, but the sealant doesn't. Extreme heat can break down the impregnation layer, leaving the stone unprotected in that spot. Thermal shock can also cause hairline cracks in thinner slabs.
How to fix it
Clean the area, check if the water-drop test shows absorption, and re-seal if needed.
Prevention
Use trivets or heat pads. It takes two seconds and saves the sealant.
Mistake #5
Cleaning with soap or washing-up liquid
Why this is a problem
Dish soap leaves a film on granite that builds up over weeks. The surface becomes streaky and loses its depth. The soap residue also traps dirt particles.
How to fix it
Strip the soap film with Lithofin MN Power-Clean (diluted 1:5). Rinse thoroughly, let dry, then re-seal.
Prevention
Use Lithofin MN Wash & Clean - it's designed for stone and leaves no residue.
Need help with Granite & Hard Stone?
Use the LithoFinder wizard to find the right product for your granite & hard stone surface, or read the full Granite & Hard Stone care guide.