Care & Maintenace Stone Surfaces 2016 | Page 3

Pits In Granite It is not uncommon to see some small pits on the surface of the granite slabs. This is a part of the natural beauty of stone. Pits are formed naturally and appear during the polishing process, when some of the weaker components of granite, like biotite, flake off from the surface. The pits themselves do not make the granite less durable or inferior for use in countertops, and the look and feel of the granite with the pits may delight some clients, and bother others. It is better if you discuss these characteristics with the fabricators before you make the final decision on your stone selection. We do not recommend that you have the pits filled because no compound can adequately or permanently fill these spaces without visually affecting the surface of the stone. Fissures & Cracks in Granite The more exotic the stone the more likely that it will have fissures. Fissures are very common. Many people think they are cracks but they are not. Fissures are tiny edges formed by the composition of minerals that may appear on the surface. You will be able to feel them when you run your finger over them. It will feel like a small ridge. Cracks are not solid like fissures. They have an opening that debris can fall into. Fissures are not noticed as much when the slab is vertical and you are viewing the slab to select your stone. Most people look at the whole slab design and overall look. Fissures are more easily noticed after the material is installed and is horizontal. When you are looking at the reflection, every natural characteristic of the stone is easy to see. For most people, this adds to the beauty of the stone and helps make your house unique.