Why do they say "not for counter tops"?

[dmaceld]

I was looking at some tile at the local big box and noticed that most of them are labeled whether they are suitable for wall, floor, and counter top. I think all are listed OK for wall and floor, but only some for counter top. Now I figure that the ceramic and porcelain tiles that are labeled not suitable for countertops would be because they're too soft or too brittle.

But what's got me wondering is the granite tiles. They're labeled not suitable for counter tops. Why would that be, because granite slabs are used for counter tops? The tiles are about 1/4" thick. I really want to consider using granite tiles for my counter tops. That way I get granite tops for a lot less money. And in the future, if one gets stained badly you just break it out and replace it.

What am I missing, if anything?

[Danny Ferguson]

It might be because there are no trim psc available for that specific tile.

[jdm]

Plenty of people use granite tiles on countertops. But not all granite is created equal. Properties vary greatly from stone to stone. I'm guessing that the granite you have is very porous all will suck up moisture and stains. Sealing the stone would help, of course, but you still might experience problems.

If you have a sample of the granite, try wetting part of the stone for a few moments and then dry it off. If the wetted part darkens, then it is pretty porous.

[Brad Denny]

That's right, Jeff, and I know some of the cheaper stone will scratch easier than others. I've gotten Absolute Black from India (maybe?) that was strong and bulletproof and the same color from China that would scratch with the slightest abrasive. The big box might be covering themselves.