Fissures or Cracks?

We purchased a granite countertop, call Uba Tuba, and had the retailer install the countertop. After installation and our inspection, we found what I call cracks, 3 of the cracks are where the sink was cut out, and 2 of the cracks where in the back splash. The back splash is 4? high and approx. 8? long. The installer is telling us that those are not cracks, but “fissures”, that naturally occur in nature. We don’t know if they are being completely honest with us. We have not checked with any other dealers, as yet. Could you help explain what these cracks are.

John

Hello John,

Ubatuba Granite is from Brazil that is normally riddled with natural fissures. It is such problematic granite in regards to customer satisfaction that some granite companies actually charge more just to provide a kitchen in this color. If I saw a photo I could tell you if it is a crack or fissure but if the seam is more than 3″ long, I would say it is a crack. If the seam travels from the sink all the way to the edge of the counter, then it is a crack.

In either case, it sounds like you are unhappy with it and should amiably discuss minimal cost solutions with the installer. I hope I’ve helped.

Best wishes,
Tom Cordova

Ask a question (be sure to tell me the stone color name if applicable to your question):