It can be difficult to determine whether your stone has a crack or if it is just a fissure. Fissures are commonly mistaken as cracks and vice versa. This article will help you understand the key differences between the two and will help you properly identify a crack vs. a fissure.
A Fissure resembles a crack, however it is a naturally occurring characteristic of stone and does not degrade the countertop’s structural integrity. Fissures are a result of geological formations or from minerals crystallizing inside the stone after millions of years. The term “fissure” is used commercially in the stone industry to describe a visible separation along intracrystalline boundaries or the voids between mineral crystals. Fissures do not typically require any type of repair and will not degrade the structural integrity of the countertop, but they may be filled with a clear, penetrating glue upon request.
A Crack is a visible break in the countertop. Cracks are typically larger than fissures and can often pose structural concerns to the countertop. Since cracks cannot always be avoided in the manufacturing of countertops, the Natural Stone Institute (the industry trade association that specifies best practices for countertop fabrication and installation) sets specific standards for allowable crack repairs. Rest assured, our team of experienced professionals are highly trained in crack repair.
The Natural Stone Institute states that “Repair of stone countertops must be performed by competent, experienced artisans to achieve the desired results”. Repair of the stone is permitted when the repaired region is not in a structurally significant area of the countertops, and when it can be accomplished skillfully so that the repair is consistent in color and texture with unrepaired regions of the slab.”
Natural stone countertops made from granite, quartzite, marble, etc. vary in susceptibility to having fissures or to cracking. Some stones are more fragile than others and more likely to crack. We recommend discussing the fragility of the stone you are considering with your salesperson and with the slab yard. We highly recommend viewing and inspecting your slab in person to see any natural fissures before ordering your countertop. Countertops fabricated from manmade slabs like Quartz or Solid Surface will not have fissures but could still crack.
These few photos can also help you determine if you have a crack or fissure. If you believe your countertop has cracked, it is best to not fix it yourself as that can lead to more damage or possibly needing to replace the entire countertop. Call Accent Countertops at 801-269-0701 to let our professionals fix it for you.
Fissures
 |
 |
 |
Cracks
 |
 |
 |
 |
