Granite countertops are known for their strength, durability, and natural beauty—but even granite can suffer damage under certain conditions. One common issue we see at Stoneshine across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut is rod failure, often requiring professional granite repair.
What Is a Granite Countertop Rod and Why Does It Fail?
When fabricating granite countertops, especially in areas prone to stress (like cutouts for sinks or cooktops), metal reinforcement rods are sometimes embedded beneath the surface to prevent cracking. These rods—typically made of steel—are inserted into grooves carved into the underside of the stone and sealed in place.
The problem? Steel and moisture don’t mix well. Over time, exposure to water (especially around sinks) can cause the metal rods to rust. As the rods corrode, they expand, putting outward pressure on the granite. This can lead to:
- Hairline cracks along the front edge of the countertop
- Visible rust stains
- Pieces of granite breaking away completely
How Common Is This?
Rod failure in granite is more common than you might think, especially in older installations or poorly sealed countertops. We frequently receive calls from homeowners in the NY, NJ & CT tri-state area dealing with cracks around kitchen sinks or islands that were reinforced with steel rods.
How Stoneshine Repairs Rod Damage in Granite
At Stoneshine, we use a specialized process to address this issue safely and effectively:
- Assessment: We examine the crack, rust patterns, and structure to determine the extent of rod corrosion.
- Rod Removal: If needed, we carefully remove a section of the granite to extract the rusted rod entirely.
- Repair & Restoration: Using color-matched epoxy and stone refinishing techniques, we fill the crack, rejoin the pieces if necessary, and polish the surface to blend seamlessly with the surrounding granite.
Don’t Replace Your Countertop—Restore It
Rod failure doesn’t mean you have to replace your entire granite slab. In most cases, our expert repair services restore both the strength and beauty of your countertop at a fraction of the cost of replacement.
If you’re noticing cracks, rust stains, or weakening around your sink or top, contact Stoneshine. We serve homeowners and businesses across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut with trusted granite repair and restoration services.
Call 1-888-509-5831 or request a free quote today.