Is granite heat resistant?

Yes, it is heat resistant, but thermal shock can cause cracking if extreme heat is applied to a cold surface.

Does granite need to be sealed?

Yes, granite should be sealed at installation and resealed every 6 to 12 months to prevent staining.

What is the maximum overhang for 3 cm granite?

Standard guidelines allow for a 10-inch unsupported overhang; anything beyond that requires steel or corbel supports.

Can granite be repaired if it chips?

Minor chips can be filled with color-matched epoxy, but large structural cracks are usually permanent and often require slab replacement.

Granite Countertops

Cabinets & Countertops

Countertops

$60 to $150 per square foot installed, depending on stone grade and edge profile.

Granite Countertops Technical Reference (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated September 3, 2026|Sources & methodology

Granite is a natural igneous stone composed of quartz, feldspar, and mica. It is quarried in slabs, polished, and finished for use as a structural and decorative horizontal surface in kitchen and bathroom applications. It is porous and requires regular sealing to resist staining.

Key Features

Natural variation in pattern and color - High heat resistance - Extreme compressive strength - Requires chemical sealants for stain protection - Non-combustible material

Specifications

Standard slab thicknesses: 2 cm (3/4 inch) or 3 cm (1 1/4 inch) - Standard slab dimensions: 9 ft to 11 ft in length

5 ft to 7 ft in width - Density: Approximately 160-175 lbs per cubic foot - Water absorption: 0.1% to 0.4% - Mohs hardness scale rating: 6-7

Applications

Kitchen countertops - Bathroom vanities - Outdoor kitchens - Bar tops - Commercial reception desks

Installation Overview

- Requires a template for custom cutting at a fabrication facility - Base cabinets must be leveled perfectly before install - 2 cm slabs require a plywood sub-top; 3 cm slabs can often be installed directly on cabinets - Seams are joined using color-matched epoxy - Overhangs exceeding 10 inches for 3 cm slabs require mechanical support brackets

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Excellent durability - Resists scratching from standard kitchen knives - Unique
✓ one-of-a-kind appearance - Adds significant home resale value

Cons

✗ Subject to cracking under high-impact stress - High weight requires structural cabinet support - Porous nature makes it vulnerable to acidic liquids - Cannot be easily repaired if chipped or cracked

Code Requirements

- Must comply with local building codes regarding countertop support and overhang restrictions - Verify cabinet load-bearing capacity for heavy stone weight - Check local fire codes for commercial kitchen applications

Buying Tips

- Inspect slabs in person to account for natural fissures and color variation - Ensure all pieces for a large project are cut from the same block (lot) for color matching - Request a written estimate including edge profile, sink cutout, and faucet hole drilling fees - Ask for lead time, typically 2 to 4 weeks from template to install.

Frequently Asked Questions

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