The table provides the coefficient of expansion for granite, limestone, marble and sandstone. In some marbles and sandstones, the coefficient is in hundred-thousandths of an inch, which could cause problems. In most construction systems, the normal fasteners and joint materials accommodate minor expansion and contraction of the stone. Some are subject to greater damage from freezing and thawing and attack from sulfurous and sulfuric acid, carbonic acid and ammonium salts. One result of this crystal growth is spawling of the stone surface at street level.
Granite is nearly impervious to weathering from temperature changes and from airborne chemicals.
In fact, granite is so resistant to chemical erosion that granite tanks are often used to store highly caustic materials. However, weather damage to granite with any finish is extremely uncommon because of its inherently low absorption rate. Permeability Granite is significantly less porous than other building stones, yet it is capable of absorbing moisture. Sometimes granite is shipped before it is completely dried, and the moisture absorbed during fabrication gives the granite a different color than in its dry state. Such stones will dry in relatively short order and return to their true color.