What can cause stone countertops to crack?

Several factors can cause a stone countertop to crack, whether it's natural stone like granite or engineered materials like quartz. Common causes include:

1. Natural Weak Points: Stone countertops, especially natural stones like granite, can have veins, fissures, or weak points where cracks can form more easily.
2. Improper Installation: If the countertop isn't properly supported during installation, it can crack under its own weight or when pressure is applied, especially around sink cutouts or overhangs.
3. Thermal Shock: Sudden changes in temperature, such as placing a hot pan directly on a cold surface or vice versa, can cause the stone to expand or contract quickly, leading to cracks.
4. Excessive Weight or Pressure: Placing heavy objects (like standing or sitting) on unsupported sections or corners of the countertop can cause stress and cracking.
5. Impact Damage: Dropping a heavy object on the countertop can create cracks or chips, particularly on edges or near cutouts.
6. Structural Shifts: If the cabinets or substructure beneath the countertop shift or settle over time, this can put uneven pressure on the stone and lead to cracking.

Some cracks can be "repaired" depending on the type of stone, the location and nature of the crack. Fissures in natural stone such as granite may be filled in with colored epoxy and retouched with special paint to help hide the crack.

Contact Lance, our Service Manager, at 435-523-4586 to discuss the possibility of servicing cracked stone countertops.