Granite countertops have long been a popular choice for homeowners thanks to their beauty, durability, and ability to increase home value.
Granite countertops have long been a popular choice for homeowners thanks to their beauty, durability, and ability to increase home value. Whether in granite kitchen countertops or granite bathroom countertops, this natural stone offers unmatched elegance with a variety of colors, from black granite countertops to white granite countertops, brown granite countertops, and even exotic options like blue pearl granite countertops.
However, granite isn’t perfect. While it remains one of the best granite countertops for kitchens, it has a set of disadvantages that every homeowner should understand before making an investment. In this guide, we’ll explore the main cons of granite countertops — including staining, porosity, sealing requirements, radon concerns, and weight — so you can make an informed decision.
The Appeal of Granite Countertops
Before diving into the downsides, it’s worth noting why granite has been a top choice for decades:
- Natural beauty: Every slab is unique, with patterns that cannot be replicated by engineered surfaces.
- Durability: Resistant to scratches and heat, making it great for busy kitchens.
- Versatility: Suitable for indoor and granite countertops for outdoor kitchens.
- Resale value: Often viewed as a premium feature by homebuyers.
Yet, like all materials, granite comes with trade-offs. If you’re still unsure which is better, quartz or granite?, understanding granite’s drawbacks will help you compare it fairly to other surfaces.
1. Staining Potential
Granite is a porous natural stone, meaning liquids can seep into its surface if not properly sealed.
Common culprits for stains include:
- Red wine
- Coffee and tea
- Oils
- Acidic sauces like tomato or citrus-based dressings
Even polished granite countertops can stain if the sealant wears down. Sealing once a year is recommended, though high-traffic kitchens may require more frequent applications.
If you’re worried about stains, quartz and solid surface materials may be better options — you can compare them in how do quartz countertops compare to granite in terms of durability, maintenance, cost?.
2. Porosity and Sealing Requirements
Because granite is a natural stone, its pores can harbor bacteria and absorb liquids. Regular sealing creates a barrier, but this is an ongoing maintenance requirement.
Honed granite countertops, which have a matte finish, are especially susceptible to fingerprints, water spots, and darkened areas without proper sealing.
Learning [how to seal granite countertops] correctly will help preserve your investment, but if you want a low-maintenance option, you might prefer quartz or natural stone vs engineered stone countertops alternatives.
3. Radon Concerns
Some granite slabs naturally contain trace amounts of uranium, which can release radon gas over time. While studies show the amount is usually minimal and far below health risk levels, it can be a concern for safety-conscious homeowners.
If radon is a concern, ask your local granite fabricators to test the slab before installation or choose certified radon-free products. Alternatives like quartz countertops eliminate this risk entirely.
4. Weight and Installation Challenges
Granite is extremely heavy. A typical slab weighs between 15–20 pounds per square foot, which means cabinets must be structurally sound to handle the load.
This also makes installation labor-intensive, requiring skilled professionals and sometimes specialized tools like a glass lifter to transport and set slabs in place. The cost to install granite countertops often reflects these challenges.
5. Cost Compared to Alternatives
While granite can be affordable at wholesale prices, premium slabs can be expensive, especially when factoring in fabrication and installation. Homeowners often ask which is cheaper, quartz or granite? — the answer depends on the slab choice, but many quartz options fall within the same or slightly higher range.
For even more budget-friendly options, see our guide on what counters are better than granite? for alternatives like Corian, concrete, and quartzite.
6. Susceptibility to Chipping
Although granite is very hard, the edges and corners can chip if struck with heavy objects. Repairing chips can be tricky and may require a professional to blend the repair with the existing stone.
7. Color and Pattern Limitations
Granite offers beautiful natural patterns, but you’re limited to what nature produces. If you need a specific consistent color — like perfectly uniform granite countertops with white cabinets — engineered stone may be a better match.
Maintenance Tips to Reduce Granite’s Drawbacks
- Seal annually: Use a high-quality penetrating sealer.
- Clean daily: Use pH-neutral stone cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.
- Use cutting boards: Protect from scratches and potential chipping.
- Wipe spills immediately: Especially oils and acidic substances.
- Avoid excessive weight on edges: Prevent cracks and damage.
Following these [maintenance tips for granite countertops] will help maximize lifespan and beauty.
Granite vs Quartz, Corian, and Other Surfaces
While granite’s disadvantages are real, they don’t necessarily outweigh its benefits for everyone. Your choice will depend on priorities:
- For low maintenance, quartz may be best.
- For budget-conscious projects, Corian or laminate could work.
- For heat resistance and natural beauty, granite remains hard to beat.
If you’re still deciding, check which is better, quartz or granite? and what counters are better than granite?.
Final Thoughts
Granite countertops offer timeless appeal, but they do require a commitment to maintenance and care. Staining, porosity, radon concerns, and heavy installation are all factors to consider before investing.
If you want the beauty of natural stone and are willing to reseal annually, granite remains one of the most top-rated granite countertop installers near me requests. But if low maintenance or uniform color is your top priority, engineered materials may suit you better.