Granite has blotchy appearance

blotchy white granite

blotchy white granite

QUESTION:

I hope somebody can give me some advice!


We just had a new granite kitchen countertop installed.

It is absolutely gorgeous with lots of colors – white, cream, reds, black, greys, even gold!

However, the surface is blotchy and looks dirty, scratched, and old.

It feels smooth to the touch (not perfectly smooth…but smooth!) and it looks fairly glossy... but underneath all that, it looks as if the surface has been beat up!

It’s hard to explain, you can see what look like “etchings” all over the counter, especially when the sun is shining, and from many different angles.

We’ve been told from the installers that because there are so many colors in this granite, what we are seeing is the “veins” of different colors at the surface.

But we just stopped in at a high-end kitchen place, and they had a similar white-ish granite countertop where you could see these etchings if you really really REALLY looked for them at weird angles.

Ours doesn't have as "deep" a gloss as the one we saw, and I feel compelled to tell every visitor, “Don’t worry – the counter’s clean. It just LOOKS dirty!”

Is this NORMAL? It doesn't seem right to me! THANKS so much!! Hard to see in a photo, but I tried. Lu

ANSWER:

Lu, the short answer is.... Yes, it's normal. And I agree with your installer. Let me explain why...

Granite has many different minerals with different colors and properties. This composition will vary from granite to granite. So, when viewed at an angle they will reflect light differently and you can see what appears to be a "blotchy" surface... which will vary from granite to granite.

But as you note, the granite counter top is uniformly smooth as it should be and I'll bet when you look down on the granite (or at any angle except sideways)the surface looks uniformly shiny, you can see your reflection and it isn't blotchy.

You just aren't used to looking at granite and your guests will not think they are dirty or notice a thing unless they decide to inspect the granite countertop at all angles.

Regarding the "other" granite... well there are 2500+ granites, so just a bit of variety!

No two stones have the same composition nor will they look the same. Some with tighter patterns or fewer colors won't appear as blotchy or at least it will seam more uniform.

Consumers (especially in the US where knowledge of stone is almost non-existent compared to Europe) certainly love the idea that every granite or marble countertop has a "unique" pattern and color. What they can't seem to get their mind around or accept is that the entire slab including all it's minerals, performance characteristics (absorbency, acid-sensitivity, maintenance and repair capabilities) is "unique" as well.

And it isn't just that granite is different from marble. No.... the difference exists between different colors/patterns of the same type of stone (one granite is different from the next) and even between
different slabs of the same variety from the same quarry.

Quartz countertop manufacturers of course have tried to eliminate these differences by making a stone-like product with uniform composition, only with different colors.

Ahhh... this consumers like because it ought to be predictable. It should look and behave exactly how the manufacturers want it to.... so no surprises or differences between yours, the sample in the store or your friend's countertop.

But even quartz countertops have performance and maintenance differences between different colors, etc.

Polishing granite is the same. In other words, there are differences. Some granite slabs will polish to a higher shine than others.... and some stones can't be polished at all. It's just the nature of "natural" stone.

Also, granite countertops can have a number of different "finishes". A shiny "polished" finish is the most common type.

But in general, all granite countertop slabs come from the stone warehouse already polished to it's full shine. (Or finished to some other finish like a honed surface.)

In fact, it comes to the stone warehouse already polished. Granite is quarried in big blocks, cut into slabs and then finished at the factory on big machines that use intense friction to smooth the raw granite surface into a mirror-like finish.

Finished slabs are then purchase by and shipped to stone warehouses. Granite is very hard, so this finish is difficult (but not impossible) to damage.

It's true that fabricators typically just cut and polish edges, but do not do anything to the top finished surface except clean it and seal it if necessary and requested.

..... although FYI... most fabricators do not apply a sealer as part of an installation. It's up to the homeowner or it's an "add-on". Ironically (and unfortunately) many fabricators/installers do not know the proper way to apply a sealer... go figure!

As noted, some stones do take a polish better than other stones and sometimes you can get a poor grade or "bad" slab. A few varieties like Santa Cecilia or New Venetian Gold can have such crappy composition (but not every slab) that they hardly polish at all and can have a gritty appearance.

Fabricators should clean the granite counter top prior to sealing, but granite sealers penetrate into the stone and do not form a "film" or "coat" so even if there was debris left on the surface it could be cleaned off after sealing and wouldn't be the cause of what you are seeing.

Unfortunately, if you have such a dog stone, there isn't much you can do about it especially if you picked it out.

Sometimes there is good reason to complain about the look or finish on a slab, but it's pretty rare and usually involves a bad slab.

In your case I think you're just driving yourself a bit crazy trying to find something wrong with your lovely new granite countertops.

What you see is just how granite looks. Or more accurately.... it's how your particular granite countertop looks... like no other! Enjoy it!

Comments for Granite has blotchy appearance

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Milky scratches are veins in sunlight.
by: Anonymous

Had my Sienna Bordeaux granite countertop installed 2 days ago. It is beautiful!!

We have 2 countertops. The sun only shines on one slab.

When it is dark outside it is stunning, shiny and perfect but when the sunlight from outside shines on it (unless I am standing directly over it) has milky veins which look like scratches.

Our pattern is very veiny which we love. But I hate the milky lines. They look like scratches but they are smooth.

Thank you for this post. I guess I will just have to get used to it. Seems as though everyone I know with granite have kitchens that do not get sun shining on their countertops. So they do not have this issue.

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

It's not uncommon for homeowners to install new granite countertops and suddenly discover new features of the pattern, colors, or look of the granite after it is installed.

And yes... the look can change depending on the light and the angle of viewing.

However, if your granite is uniformly smooth and shiny (or matte if it's a honed finish), then what you are seeing is just part of the normal pattern.
Shinier spot on Fantasy Brown granite
by: Anonymous

One day after we moved to a new home I saw a ring on the countertop. It’s smooth but very visible from one angle.

I tried using stone daily cleaner that said it’s for granite, marble, etc., with some elbow grease.

Now that larger area is shinier than the rest. It did have a light gloss to it but not like this.

I used dawn several times on that area and the shine and ring is still there. Any suggestions as it’s driving me crazy.

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

The ring is odd. You didn't say if the ring was lighter or darker in color.

Granite does not etch easily at all. It can but it takes a strong acid to do it. And etch mark is lighter in color and dull and often can only be seen from a certain angle.

If darker in color, then that is a stain where something has absorbed into the granite.

It could be a ring from a suction cup used to move the granite slab.

Try cleaning with acetone. Acetone will not harm the granite.

If the ring is darker, then use the Granite Stain Remover Poultice.

As for the shinier spot... use the same cleaner and elbow grease over the entire countertop. I imagine you'll even out the look and shine. Do this after washing with acetone.
Granite - Not Pleased With Appearance
by: Sharon

Your granite is the same as mine and although, I am not pleased with the appearance, I have learned to live with it.

It was on my lower end and I guess you get what you pay for. I’ll get quartz countertops for sure next time.
Removing Scratches from Installation
by: Anonymous

Hi, we just installed out kitchen granite countertops. It is mostly black with some white veins.

After installation we noticed that the area along the edge where the waterfall connects to the counter has some minor scratches.

It looks like the installers damaged the surface when they were buffing the adhesive which connects the waterfall and the top.

You can see it only when you look from the angle and they look like semicircles from the buffing instrument.

After I asked them if they could correct it, they tried to polish it, but it didn’t help. Please advise if anything can be done? Thanks

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

Hmmm.... if indeed these are light scratches or swirl marks from polishing, then they should be able to polish them out.

But they would need to use the same polishing procedure used to polish the edges after cutting the granite slab to your countertop dimensions.

If they are just trying to "buff" them out with some type of topical polish and a soft pad, then yeah... probably not working.
Fantasy Brown granite... Or is it quartzite? Or marble?
by: Judy G.

Hello. Where I purchased what I thought was a granite slab, they told me afterward that it was actually quartzite.

Now I used to have a granite kitchen table in Uba Tuba granite that from a short distance it looked black and it was gorgeous and very high gloss finish like a mirror finish.

I am so disappointed in my island and countertop of Fantasy Brown.

It only has a slight sheen, and it is not glossy enough for me.

The owner of the granite installer said, some stones, are just not that glossy, but what I ordered was high-gloss.

Do you think there is anything that can be down by the granite fabricator and installer?

They said they would come back and polish it, but they never did.

Also, it's up against a wallboard which surrounds the refrigerator, and I am afraid they will damage my new cabinets (wallboard) is right against the countertop. Please advise. Thank you Judy G.

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

The best option I'd recommend is to use a Topical Stone Polish that will enhance the shine a bit making it look more glossy. This is not permanent but the application lasts quite a while and can be easily reapplied as needed.

But let's address the entire issue....

Fantasy Brown is marble, but it's a unique type of marble that performs more like a quartzite countertop.

Geologically, it is marble. It contains calcium carbonate which is the mineral that limestone, travertine, and marble are formed from.

Calcium carbonate (or Calcite) comes from the fossilized shells of snails and shellfish, and from coral that over millions of years forms a sedimentary layer that is then compressed into limestone.

Limestone undergoes further changes to become travertine and marble.

Since Fantasy Brown slabs contain calcium carbonate it is considered a marble.

But the ratio of calcium carbonate to other minerals (like quartz) is different than your standard marble.

Fantasy Brown is a harder marble that does not readily etch (dull chalky or ghost spots) like most marble colors. Etching is due to the reaction of calcium carbonate with acidic foods and drinks.

So, Fantasy Brown performs more like a quartzite, which is why it is commonly labeled as a "quartzite" which gives the buyer a better idea of what to expect.

Sometimes it is labeled as a "granite" because it generally doesn't etch which is the primary difference between granite and marble performance.

Consumers are more familiar with granite than quartzite so some stone warehouses will label it Fantasy Brown granite.

Granite and quartzite perform more or less the same regarding durability, care, and maintenance required.

Your fabricator is correct about glossiness. Every slab or stone type or color is a bit different. Some will be very glossy while others less so even when polished on specialized industrial machines at the factory.

And some types of stone (like some limestone) can't really be polished to a shine at all.

It just depends on the overall mineral composition of that slab.

Of course, slabs of the same name or color will have a similar mineral composition. The mineral composition is what determines the color and pattern of that particular stone and thus, the color or name we give it.

But still qualities will vary some including how well a particular slab can be polished to a high-gloss shine.

So, yes... the fabricator could come and polish it more, but likely would not improve it too much over the factory finish.

It may be that the shine on your slab is different than that of a sample of Fantasy Brown you may have seen in the showroom or something or it could just be different lighting.

Also, you can't really "order" a certain level of glossiness. I get it that you saw a sample that was glossy, you liked it, and expected your Fantasy Brown countertop to look the same.

That is very reasonable, but when working with a natural stone such variations are normal. You can't make the stone be something other than it is or make it be glossier than it is physically capable of.

You could have a fabricator try to polish it to a higher shine, but I suggest using the Topical Stone Polish recommended above. It's the easiest route to get a more glossy look.
New Granite Slabs Don't Match
by: Anonymous

Hi- we just had granite countertops installed in our new kitchen remodel.

One small slab on the side next to the stove is not the same as the others.

I know for a fact it is not the same because the variations in color are different plus the small slab has what appears to be water marks all over it.

I have learned that it is part of the granite and I need to deal with that - and I could if they all matched.

We already spoke with the installer and he has not commented on using a piece from another slab. I feel ripped off! What is your opinion?

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

If two or more granite slabs were needed to complete your kitchen countertop installation, then it is possible that one slab may look a bit different.

Usually, this is not a problem as two slabs from the bundle are chosen.

As granite slabs are cut from big blocks at the quarry they are kept together in the order that they were cut and then shipped to stone warehouses in bundles.

This is done so you can get multiple slabs that have the same basic coloration and pattern. Even though every slab of a certain granite color or name will have the same basic color and pattern the shade of that color can vary from slab to slab as well as the density and movement of the pattern.

For instance, take a popular granite color called Santa Cecilia... one slab that was cut from the quarry a year ago may have a deeper gold color than a recent slab.

The recent slab may have a more compact pattern vs. the older slab that has more space in the pattern.

What can happen though is the fabricator may have cracked or broken one of the slabs while cutting it and tried to find a replacement slab that matched the others but could not .

All the slabs from the original bundle may have been sold and slabs from a new bundle have a slightly different color that is really only noticeable when the slabs are side by side.

If you chose the original slabs that matched, then you have a very solid argument for some type of discount if the fabricator did have to use a slab from a different bundle.

If you simply picked a color from a sample and left it up to the fabricator to choose the slabs (bad idea), then you don't have much leverage except that it is very reasonable to expect that the color and pattern of the entire countertop will be the same.

With such a noticeable difference and given the fact that there could be some damage (what you call "water marks") to the slab, I'd definitely negotiate a discount.

You could request that the slab be removed and replaced, but there is no guarantee that a second replacement slab would match any better.
I noticed the same
by: Anonymous

I had titanium granite countertops installed in my kitchen recently and I notice the same thing.

When you look at it from an angle, the finish looks like it has a polished and matte finish, with the matte looking finish looks almost like swirls.

When you run your hand over it all feels the same. When I examine it closer, it appears that the swirly matte finish is over the dark/black portion, which is the primary color of the stone and the polished looking parts are the other colors in the stone.

I love my new countertops and I find that all these variations add to the beauty.
Very disappointed with Granite
by: Anonymous

I could have written what the lady wrote on above post. Mine seems to get worse and spots and rings if you don't catch a liquid spot immediately.

I don't think installers sealed it and if that would remove these blemishes I would gladly do that!

There were some spots and rings after they left from installing.

I made calls to everyone I thought could help and no one returns my calls.

If someone has this problem and found a way to fix it, please post an answer. I'm sick, every time I look at it. It looks very old and dirty!! Thank you!
Stained and Cracked New Granite
by: Anonymous

I had White Ice granite installed in my new kitchen. Immediately noticed stains and etching.

1 month after installation the granite cracked (15 inches). The fabricator said it was the fault of my contractor and said the cabinets were uneven.

Eventually they agreed to replace. Replaced with a remnant of the original slab.

Now 9 months later stained, dulled, chips on the edges. The fabricator has been out twice. Once tried sanding down the stains.

This worked a little but overall my countertop looks dirty, scratched and stained.

They tell me the granite is "soft" and they are no longer installing in kitchens but there are many beautiful pictures on the internet with this granite.

What are my options. Oh I forgot to mention, I picked out my own slab. The slab that was sent had a crack in it but I was assured that they could work around this.

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

Cracks can occur in granite an often they don't cause any problem. Just depends case by case.

Granite can stain, especially, white granite. If not sealed completely or properly then it's not surprising you have stains.

Granite can also chip and pit. For most varieties this is not a problem, but for some colors it can pit a lot.

The dullness is odd. If it was not dull before, but now it is... that is odd. Typically, in such cases this is due to a film (like soap scum) is on the surface.

Really, without seeing it in person it is hard to make an assessment. I'd have an independent party take a look... like a stone restoration pro.
New Bianco Antigo Countertop Island Has Many "Scratches" or what look like Water Marks
by: ajoy

I am buying a new home and picked out the Bianco Antigo granite.

I love it until I see it in the sunshine, mainly on the island which is the centerpiece of the room.

I have read many articles and the comments on here so I know this granite can have artifacts that are unique to each piece.

The granite in the bathroom and by the two counters next to the stove aren't pretty but the island is very distracting. I feel it is artifacts unique to the piece as they look like scratches or water marks but they cannot be felt.

The island counter edges were rough and needed to be filled in many places but still seems rough and I can feel the epoxy, is this normal?

Also, how can I determine if this is normal or if it is a bad piece of granite (I am going through a builder so I did not have the choice of picking the piece).

The same granite is in the model with this granite and my next door neighbor's home and both do not have as many "scratches" or the feeling of the epoxy or rough edges. They are also shinier.

The master bath has the same granite, it is gorgeous and shiny and not rough.

I don't want to be too picky if it is something that takes getting used to (I now have a different granite and it has never had blotches or what looks like scratches) but I also don't want to get stuck with a bad piece of granite as I have caught the supervisor in a few "untruths" about other things that needed fixing in the home.

Help...I love the home and really love the granite except for the piece on the island!! Thank you in advance :)

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

Certainly, if the granite is rough in patches and the surface does not seem like it is finished well or properly, then I'd take it up with the builder.

Quality of granite definitely can vary. The builder probably bought a container of all the same color and doesn't want to put any slab aside (and eat the cost) even if not of the same quality as other slabs.

But you are paying for nice granite countertops like you saw in the model home. Not second-class slabs.

There's no reason you should be dissatisfied with your kitchen granite especially when you have examples of the same granite color in your home and your neighbor's home that are obviously of better quality.
New granite not smooth
by: Anonymous

We are building a home and the granite our builder had installed in both the kitchen and bathrooms (2 different granites) has an etched, non smooth to the touch appearance.

I can actually feel that it isn't smooth. It's like tiny abrasions all over the granite. It's not just the look of it, the surface itself is not smooth.

I can feel it with my fingernails. In addition to this the areas with the shiny mica are pitted and I can feel the stone through the finish.

These are not small areas, they are a good size areas (like the size of a fingertip). I don't know what to do.

We didn't have the option of choosing our own granite slabs. We are at the mercy of the contractors the builder uses.

I have gone to several area granite suppliers and looked at these two exact granites in their showrooms and do not see any of these etched areas on their slabs.

Is this a problem with the fabrication process?

In speaking with a few of the granite suppliers, they indeed think so. However, since we truly don't own the home yet, I'm not sure what our options are as far as having an independent person come and look at the slabs to let us know if these are just poorly sourced slabs our builder's contractor is using.
Advice needed.

===== Countertop Specialty comment:

The slabs are low-quality and likely cannot be improved at all... or they were extremely poorly fabricated and installed.

I'd object and insist on replacement. They should be evenly smooth and shiny without excessive pitting (all granite can pit so, but typically new tops don't have many yet.
Rust Spots on New Countertops
by: Anonymous

My son just had countertops installed. His has rust spots in the largest slab.

I understand small spots, but one part looks like a 3 inch long burned spot and the other looks like a 4" by 4" rust stain. is this normal and can it be removed?

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

Well, if they are indeed "rust stains" then, no... it is not normal and the slab should not have been used.

I'm assuming your son did not pick out the exact slab himself (otherwise he would have seen the spots prior to install).

Now it could be that the spots are a natural part of the stone. Natural stone can have all kinds of pattern and color variations including unusual inclusions or spots of a different color that is not repeated in the pattern.

So, you need to figure out exactly what the spots are first.

If they are rust stains, then you may be able to remove them using this product to remove rust stains on natural stone.

Removing rust stains can be difficult. If the stains are recent and not too deep, then the above product is effective. However, if the stains are deep or old, then they may be permanent.
Spot on our granite
by: Anonymous

We are building a new home and will soon do the closing. However, I noticed a dark spot on our dry bar granite and a dark mark on my kid's bathroom granite counter top.

I informed the builders to do something about it and they said it's the naturally occurring color in the granite. I don't like the look and wonder if something can be done about it?

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

It depends on the type of spot. If indeed it is a natural part of the granite itself (which it could be), then no. Granite colors and patterns can vary a lot and sometimes even contain a stray spot or color.

However, if the spot is a stain due to something absorbing into the surface, then yes... most stains can be easily removed using a granite stain removing poultice product.
Blotchy granite
by: Maria

I just had Fantasy Brown granite put into my new kitchen. I noticed blotches and mentioned it to the installers. They said that is how it is supposed to look.

I don't like a high gloss shine on granite. It looks fake to me. it is polished and far away it looks pretty shiny, but if I bend down and look or if the light is shining on it I see blotches.

I cannot believe that the place where we got it didn't explain that the slab we were looking at is what we are getting. We thought they would polish it like they did the edges. So the edges are shinier than the surface.
So upsetting to me. I called the owner and he said they get it polished from manufacturers. I am asking him to come over and look at it.

I like the natural look of it but I wish it was a bit more polished and had no blotches that reflect in the light.
I read on internet it is an antique finish. I am trying to believe it. Any suggestions? I think I'm just gonna have to live with it.

===== Countertop Specialty comment:

An antiqued finish is not shiny at all, so almost certainly what is happening is that you have a polished finish and when looking down it looks smooth and even with no "blotches".

Then in certain light or when looking at a lower angle suddenly you see odd shapes and what appear to be blotches scattered across the entire surface.

This is 100% normal and what any granite or stone with movement in the pattern looks like. The supposed blotches are created by the borders of the various different mineral groups as they blending together haphazardly to make up the entire granite slab.

Just as noted in the above article, the minerals are of different color and composition and reflect light differently, which is apparent only at certain angles.

If your countertop surface is completely smooth to the touch, but only looks weird and blotchy at a low angle, then it is normal.

If not uniformly smooth, then the blotchiness could be an issue with the surface finish.
Hate My Granite too!!
by: Lorraine

Hi. My granite countertop was installed while I was at work. My contractor was in the home. When I arrived home excited to see it I was so disappointed!!!

The left side has all these rust spots imbedded in the stone!!. IT LOOKS AWFUL!! Plus one side looks different from the other.

I choose colonial cream but this is more white and gray. When I called to complain the owner of the company told me this was normal and is a natural part of the stone. I just feel this untrue but if I hear from you I will be satisfied. Thank you so much.

===== Countertop Specialty comment:

Certainly, this is bummer for you. You were ready to love it and trusted the contractor to do the best possible. Unfortunately, this is a too common occurrence.

It sounds like you maybe did not pick out the exact slabs of granite that were to be installed, which you should always do. Never choose from a showroom sample.

Showroom samples are "representative" of the particular color or variety of stone, but the color and pattern of most varieties can vary from a little to a lot.

Same thing on the rust spots. If you had picked out the exact slabs you would have noticed any undesireable spots, pattern, color or mismatched slabs.

Choosing the exact slabs allows you to choose those most pleasing to you and that will match up at any seams.

The spots may not be actual rust spots. They could just be part of the natural pattern of the stone. You may not like them, but they may not be abnormal.

If you did pick out the exact slabs and you think the ones installed are not the same, then you have a right to complain and demand some action and withhold payment until satisfied. Likewise if indeed the spots are rust stains. They should not have installed a rust-stained slab.

The other lesson here is never have something expensive installed in your home without inspecting the actual materials, signing off on exactly what is to be done.

And really for relatively short jobs like a countertop installation, it is best to be present when the work is done.

A frustrating disappointment when this occurs, however, in most cases it happens because the homeowner didn't know that it was important to pick the exact slabs to be installed and then the contractor just chose the cheapest slabs available that were technically the same name as the showroom sample.
Granite Problem
by: Anonymous

My new house granite countertop is exactly what was described! I am so disappointed because my last house was half the price we paid and I never worried about water stains, the blotchy appearance, etc. I tried what the distributor told me to buy, Rejuvenate, and of course it didn't make any difference.
Vein Running through Santa Cecilia Granite
by: Disappointed

The builder just installed new granite in my new home (Santa Cecilia Light) - all the piece are uniform except one corner that has a huge vein running through it.

Neither the builder nor the Sub are willing to do anything about it and keep saying this is normal -

I know there could be some imperfection but this is huge. My current granite just has a few larger spots than others and looks pretty uniform.

I just can't get over it? I am paying so much money for this house. Has anyone else had the same and how did you deal with this?

I almost want to get the whole thing replaced but that would be costly. Can anyone shed some light and comfort?

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

First, a vein in granite is totally normal and not an "imperfection".

As you know granite is a natural stone. But really consider this... it took millions of years to form, was dug out of earth and cut into thin slabs... as is. It was not made to order for your kitchen.

Thus, it will have all kinds of variance in pattern and color. That is the beauty of granite or any natural stone. No two slabs are exactly the same and again... veins are normal and common.

Certainly you may not like the look of the vein or other aspects, but nothing is wrong with you granite countertop in this regard.

Now, Santa Cecilia granite typically has a very uniform pattern and little veining, so I understand that having a single large vein may stand out a bit too much and is not appealing.

I gather that you did not pick out this exact slab or surely you would have objected to the vein at that time.

The lesson here is that you should always choose the exact marble or granite slab that you wish to make a countertop out of.

This way you avoid unpleasant surprises and know exactly the color and pattern you'll be installing.

Another tip is to discus with your fabricator how a particular slab will be cut and map it out to avoid including any unwanted features of the slab.





Our new White Spring Granite
by: Anonymous

We had our countertops installed last week and we have the same problems with the quality of this granite.

When we went to the supplier, MSI in Dulles, VA, to select it they only had two pieces of the White Spring, so we did not have any choice but select what they had in stock.

We really wanted to wait until they receive more but were told that it will take months.

These two pieces are very large and they were stocked in a way that you were unable to have a good look of it.

They were delivered to Counter Intelligence in Spring Field, VA to be cut and installed. Upon having a close look at it, we immediately contacted Counter Intelligence to inform that we were NOT satisfied and it will not be accepted.

The following day they sent a manager to inspect it, he took pictures and seems to be well aware of the problems. We are still waiting for a reply and we are VERY upset with the whole thing.
Just had New Venetian Gold Granite Counterts Installed
by: Anonymous

It was the same way when my counters were installed. Looking at eye level or at an angle they looked grainy, etchy and blotchy, but they do have a shine on them and I love the pattern.

I have a couple of places where the pattern is really dark, my husband said it looks burnt, but I don't even notice it anymore.

I have stopped looking at them from an angle and just see the pattern and the shine. Give it a week or two and you will probably be satisfied, I know I am now.
Colonial White Granite Splotches
by: viniowa

Just finished install of "Colonial White" in our large kitchen...love the colors, but hate scratches look from an angle, even from the top when sun is shining in.

A different lot was installed on our laundry room...same thing.

I am so disappointed in this Granite, we picked out the slabs, but obviously was not looking for scratches and splotches.

Anyone else with "Colonial White" issues? This granite is from India.

=== Countertop Specialty comment:

Any splotches or blotches you may see has been thoroughly the discussed in this article and comments above. It is a normal aspect of granite when viewed from certain angles, but just due to mineral pattern variation.

Your Colonial White granite countertop should not be scratching though, so no clue what you are seeing or thinking are scratches.
Blotchy white springs counter top
by: lisac

We remodeled our kitchen with white springs granite counter top and I have dull blotchy patches all over it.

But I will say it runs with the different grains in the stone and some places I can feel the difference in the stone.

I was told it was normal because of the different variations in the stone. It looks like they missed spots while sealing it.

I kinda excepted his explanation as I can only see it in the light but wonder if it is a bad slab.

This is something they should point out to people while picking there granite slab out.I would have gone with something else.Buyer beware

==== Countertop Specialty comment:

What you are describing actually sounds completely normal.

Granite is made of many different minerals and crystals that form patterns. Light reflects differently off all these and when looking at certain angles it can appear blotchy.

But as you note, the blotchy pattern follows the pattern of the granite. Normal.

Now, it should feel uniformly smooth though. And if you do have rough patches, then could be an iffy slab. But if generally smooth all over, then nothing to worry about.

Remember, granite is a "natural" product. That means it has all the unique variations of nature.
Got used to it
by: Sara

It bothered me at the beginning, but I got used to it and now even don't pay attention to it. I love my granite countertop (White Galaxy ).
Blotches after adhesive put down
by: Diana

Just had our granite countertop installed and it looked good until we came home from dinner and found where the adhesive is coming through.

The installer wanted to wait and cut for the sink until the adhesive was dry so it didn't crack. He said they would seal it tomorrow after cutting for the sink.

Problem is isn't there dust in the air when the sealer is being out in and I really don't want the granite sealed until the marks from the adhesive is dry to the naked eye as it was before putting the adhesive in it.

Any suggestions, really not wanting to pay until I know it is right.

=== C. Specialty comment:

Wait for the adhesive stains to either evaporate and disappear (sometimes happens) or the installer removes the stains (which is usually necessary) before applying a granite sealer. And final payment should not be made until all issues are resolved and you are satisfied with the installation.
Blotchy granite with some pits
by: Anonymous

We had Camelot Dream 11 granite that we picked out the two slabs. They were patterned, cut, polished, sealed and installed yesterday. When we awoke this morning, we saw that there were many blotchy, dull spots and pits that you could feel and touch along with what looked like small scratches.

We called our kitchen designer and the granite company and they will be coming out next week to look it over. They already told us that we picked out the slab but also, in our defense never educated us in any way what to avoid in doing so.

Do we have any rights in complaining? We cannot express how disappointed we are. The counter just looks dirty and old beside the fact it was very costly. HELP!DELUXE

===== Admin Comment:

I'd say yes, you some ground for a complaint. You should always pick out the slab, so you can hopefully rule out problems.

And if you hired a designer then he/she should definitely be helping you with granite slab selection. At the very least inform you what to watch out for.

Everyone works differently, so if your kitchen designer brought in the granite fabricator to work with you directly, then the fabricator should have helped you pick a slab... but ultimately it falls back to the designer in my opinion.

Some designers and/or fabricators try to get away with just telling you to go to the warehouse and pick one out.

Well, they are just being lazy. They know that you don't know how to pick out a slab other than "yeah... I like that color". The very reason they need to be there is to evaluate the granite slab integrity and quality.

Now the granite warehouse could help you some, but it's really a job for the fabricator and/or designer.

The entire job of a designer is to pick out and coordinate materials. So, if he/she didn't go with you, then yeah... I'd put it back on them.

How that could play out legally is anyone's guess, but ethically there is some negligence here as you describe it.

One finger sized spot in 74 ft of granite
by: Anonymous

Thank you for your response. I wish they would have showed it too us and we could have actually chosen a spot to 'hide' it. But as I mentioned, no one said a word to us that this one spot existed.

It honestly looks like a spill, the way a liquid might pool and then spread a little. That's why I used the description of a finger.

Very smooth edges all the way around. We did not sign anything as far as the granite individually - they gave us several choices and we picked what we liked.

We have the kitchen island, the counters, a half wall, a bar and a slab to go under a wood burning stove. All of those options, they could have 'hid' it, or better yet, asked us if they could 'hide' it, like under the stove, in the back splash in the corner.

It's close to the corner of the island - 4" or so off either side. I wish I could send you a picture..... I don't see how I can ignore it or get used to it, since it's only one spot, and it's such an obviously different color and one distinct shape.
Thanks again.

=== Comment:

Yes, it sounds like they were a bit lazy and inconsiderate about where they located the spot. But it could be this was the only way they could cut all the pieces.

I'm guessing this job required multiple granite slabs, so usually that provides many more options for cutting pieces, but it's a possibility.

Again, I'd state your displeasure and try negotiating a discount before making final payment. I know you'd rather pay full price and not have the spot, but I don't have too many hopes they will replace it.
one spot in 74 sq feet of granite countertop island
by: Dani JOhn

We got ours granite countertop installed 2 days ago in the middle of a re-model. There is a large, finger sized/shaped spot, of a different color, in the center kitchen island.

The color doesn't appear anywhere else on the Granite. (Granite is Grey Pearl type - the stain is green) It stands out like a sore thumb. No one told us about it, warned us, or asked us.

We have pictures where they set a roll of tape at that very spot, almost like they tried to hide it.

We didn't notice it till last night when everyone was gone and all the work had stopped for the day/weekend.

It was covered by dust from the tearing up of the tile floor, and it was very hard to see. They will be back to finish tomorrow, 10/22/12 and I don't know what I can expect them to do or what I should be able to ask of them.

A new piece? We picked the granite color from a a 4 X 4 sample, but did not pick out the granite slab / pieces - they did. I'm so upset!! It's so obvious and it's in such an obvious place.

Thanks for any advice you can give me.

==== Admin Comment:

Well, if you had picked out the granite countertop slabs yourself (which you should always do for just this reason) then you wouldn't have any argument.

However, since you only picked the granite color and not actual slabs, then yes... you may be able to argue the point.

The fact is thought that this isn't abnormal to have an area, spot or line of color that is very different from the overall granite color and/or seen in only this spot.

It's a natural product afterall. So, I don't know if you signed any paperwork, but read it... it may say something regarding such occurences.

Wouldn't be too surprised if they did purposely try to hide it and if so, then they likely will make every excuse possible to keep from replacing it.

Actually this slab has probably been sitting in their warehouse forever and they were finally able to use it since you didn't pick it out yourself.

So, I'd expect to live with it. Although I would negotiate a nice discount.

Maybe you can find a creative way to cover the spot if it is truly unsightly, but often after a while you don't even notice these and it's just part of the organic look of a natural stone countertop.
Re: Blotchy granite countertops
by: Anonymous

Thank you for setting me straight on "blotchy" countertops. I have Giallo Vencenza granite counter tops installed one year ago, that have a high gloss shine when I look directly down at them, and a blotchy appearance if I look sideways or in different lighting.

Everyone who sees my countertops comments how beautiful they are. So I guess I just need to get used to what granite looks like.

Thanks for the information which helped me understand what granite should look like..."natural stone".
blotchy granite
by: Miss Joanie

Our installer came returned and the determination was to 'blame' the manufacturer. I guess that is where the slab was originally cut and prepared. The installer agreed to replace the most prominent piece (we looked at several slabs before finding one that would work without blotchy places) and also came in and applied another finish, sanded and polished and re-applied sealant. It looks so much better. We are pleased with the response that we received from our vendor.
Hope this helps others.
BLOTCHINESS FROM ADHESIVE
by: IRVINE-PHIL

We had 'black and white' granite counter installed today. Tonight, 7 hours later, there appears darker round ~5-inch areas above where the adhesive to the particle board had been applied applied. I have a photo before the granite was dropped in place, a photo immediately after, and now the photo with the darker splotched areas showing. Is this normal because solvent is coming up through the granite? Does it dissipate with time?

==== ADMIN COMMENT:

This is not great, but it can be "normal" sometimes. However, it is usually due to using accelerants with the adhesive and can often be permanent.

Installers will tell you... "oh don't worry it will go away in 3 days, 2 weeks, a few weeks, etc."

Personally I would then not make the final payment until the spots disappear.

You may get some improvement following instructions in the Removing Granite & Marble Stains e-book.

However, the glue has saturated all the way through the granite and will continue to do so. Thus, you remove some of it from the surface, stains go away, but then reappear.... or just never go away.

Hopefully yours will dissipate quickly on their own. If not the e-book methods may help some, but you may have to continually repeat the steps over a long time to completely remove.

If not, then nothing else you can do except have the slabs replaced.

Good Luck!
Re-polish Blotchy granite countertops
by: Miss Joanie

Interesting that many of us have the same concerns. After repeated calls and visits, we have finally had someone (we think) that can remedy our blotchy granite countertops. The plan is to completely replace one piece and repolish/seal or something on the others. Will keep updated on the outcome.
More Explanation: Blotchy Granite Countertops
by: Ryan

Thanks to everyone for commenting and sending your questions.

This is a popular thread, so I'm adding an update...

There can be several reasons why a granite countertop could look blotchy.

First, as noted originally it can simply be when looking at a low angle you notice a difference in color and pattern reflection that can seem like something "blotchy" is on the surface. But when you look straight down the surface simply looks smooth and evenly reflective.

A second problem is regarding improperly applied sealer, which leaves a dull, streaky or blotchy haze on the surface that can be seen at all angles, but is most pronounce when viewing countertops at low angles.

Third, it could be a problem with resins (not common) or "doctoring". Doctoring is applying a coloring agent to the surface that is easily etched or altered or removed by almost any chemical and many foods.

Doctoring is almost exclusively a problem with black granites though.

A fourth problem could be a "bad slab". Since granite countertops are a natural product the "quality" of the stone can vary from slab to slab.

And yet another blotchy problem that can produce weird spots on new granite is related to the adhesive absorbing and bleeding through to the surface of the granite countertop.

Sometimes these spots will go away, unless the wrong adhesive is used or chemical accelerators are used... then the glue spots can be permanent.

Some varieties (colors) are more prone to bad slabs than others, but this can happen with almost any granite color. A bad slab will not polish well, make look spotty or blotchy or dull, may have a gritty feel to it, etc.

To sum up....

There isn't "one" answer to why a granite countertop is "blotchy". With enough information we can usually diagnose the nature of the problem without first-hand inspection, however, often this is not possible.

We are always glad to provide answers and help regarding such matters, but it is also always a good idea to have a stone fabricator (your installer and another fabricator) come take a look.

Good luck to all!

Ryan
update
by: Sara

I have the same situation with my granite countertop,(Apr.'12) . How did it end? Are you satisfy now?
Sara
We, too, have blotches on the new granite!
by: MelMikulak

So interesting to see all these posts on blotchy granite countertops. We had new granite (Madera Gold?) put in our kitchen about two weeks ago. The first thing I noticed was that it appeared there were dried water spots on every surface. However, they don't come off and you can't feel them. You also don't have to look hard to see them - as someone else also posted.

The fabricator said to wait 4-5 days and the spots will dissipate. He said it was the water-based adhesive coming up through the granite and it just needed to bleed out. 14 days later and my granite counter tops are still covered with "water spots" or blotches.

The GC called another granite guy who said "maybe they mistakenly used oil-based adhesive." Now we've got the rock-yard coming out to look, because the fabricator has no idea what to do and no recommendations.

I've never seen anything like this in any other home I've been in, nor have I heard of it before.

I'm also interested in the comment made that my fabricator probably did NOT seal the granite..? Really? Why don't they tell us that?!

Spot remover needed!
blotchy granite
by: LM

We are in the midst of a kitchen remodel. The granite was installed yesterday and has not only a blotchy look - I know exactly what you are describing. It also is rough on over 80% of the countertop. When it was installed I asked about both the roughness and the blotchyness and was told to just wash it "tomorrow" with soap and water. I am waiting on the GC and fabricator to call me and come out to discuss a resolution. I am disappointed, bc I too, look at the counter and it looks dull and old. Frustrating to say the least - wondering what replacing would do to my brand new cherry cabinets....UUGH! So, I would love to hear the resolution to this.

====

Probably a bad slab... nothing will correct it. Not normal or acceptable and should be replaced. The installer knows this. Of course, if you picked out the slab, then can't blame them.
outcome?
by: Anonymous

I really want to know the outcome of this story. I too just had granite installed and have the same problem. I have gotten down eye level with the reflection of the light and it does seem to be the veins. However, I am concerned that we too have a sealer problem. So what was the outcome?

==========

Don't know the outcome, but veins and the various different minerals and pattern variations will be seen when looking at a low angle. That's normal.

The surface will all be smooth/shiny and should not look add when looking down. Again, only at low angles do you notice the different pattern elements, but I would not describe it as "blotchy" so something else must be going on... a sealer issue being the most likely.
outcome?
by: Anonymous

I really want to know the outcome of this story. I too just had granite installed and have the same problem. I have gotten down eye level with the reflection of the light and it does seem to be the veins. However, I am concerned that we too have a sealer problem. So what was the outcome?
Blotchy granite
by: Anonymous

This was great. I just purchased countertops and had the same problem. I thought I was going crazy but am glad to know I am not. Very useful information.
Plan of Action...
by: Anonymous

Of course, the installer & granite supplier agreed that "it's just the nature of granite". The supplier also kept commenting on how much natural light we have in our kitchen...I only wish he had come on a sunny day (it's raining, so there's actually not much natural light today!) He said the lighting causes much of what we're seeing. Again, if the granite were mildly blotchy -- okay. But this is really BAD!

To try to help at least a little bit, the installer is going to re-finish HALF of a spare chunk of our granite with some kind of non-wax polishing compound to try to make the shine "pop" more to see if that makes the blotchiness less noticeable.

On the other half, he's going to do a "honed" finish to see if LESS gloss makes the "imperfections" less noticeable.

I guess it's worth a try. Nothing we can do about the natural light in the kitchen...except maybe block out the sun!

Thank you again for ALL your advice and information! At least I felt armed with a little more knowledge when they were here!

Lu
RE: Really Blotchy Granite
by: Ryan

Lu,

Good that the installers are coming to take a look. Everything I told you is true of course, but it certainly is possible that your granite could benefit from more polishing... especially if you are seeing a lot of scratches.

Even at an angle, you should not see scratches in granite. Granite is very hard and difficult to scratch beyond faint surface scratches, but even these are not common or usual really. If you have a lot then it could indicate neglectful handling of the stone on transport, storage or install.

Also, the most common cause of a "blotchy" appearance is improperly applied sealer.

If a sealer was applied and any excess sealer was left to dry on the surface it will create a dull hazy and/or blotchy appearance.

A sealer should not be left to dry, but it is too common that the installer will apply the sealer and then just leave, telling the homeowner to let it soak in for a day or two.

No, it should be applied to saturation and the excess wiped completely off the surface until dry not more than 10 minutes (for most stones) after it was first applied.

Often letting the sealer dry is not a problem on lighter granites since they have higher rates of absorption and will drink up all the sealer even when left to dry. But it is not the correct way to do it, can and often does lead to a poor appearance.

If this has occurred then the sealer will need to be stripped off using methylene chloride and then re-applied properly.

Good Luck!
Re: Blotchy granite
by: Lu

Thanks so much! Your input means a lot. It wouldn't bother me much if it was ONLY at funky angles that the blotchiness showed, but it's really visible at every angle except for when you look straight down on it from above. So...if I'm standing at the sink -- my view is BLOTCHY granite that looks old and scratched. And it's not just a little bit...it's VERY VERY VERY blotchy & scratched looking. My husband commented tonight that his "white glove" Mom would probably never eat at our island bar because it looks dirty.

The granite people (the installer AND his supplier) are scheduled to come out tomorrow to check it out. They haven't actually seen it yet...have only heard my attempts at describing it over the phone. I'll see what they have to tell me...and see if they have any tricks up their sleeves to make it look better.

I really LOVE the color and the overall beauty of the patterns and all...but if they had told me that it would look like this, I would have selected a more uniform pattern with fewer color variations for this SUNNY location.

Thanks again for your comments. I TRULY appreciate it! Lu

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