I just moved into a newer home and the joint between the granite counter top and the glass tile back splash is cracking. It appears that it had been grouted. Should I scrape it out and use a caulking product instead or is it better to go back with grout?
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Every home, especially new constructions, are subject to differential settlement. Since the degree in which it occurs may change due to the site and design conditions, it’s a good practice to select some materials in specific areas that can adjust to this settlement.
To make it simple, you should use flexible caulking between the countertop and the backsplash. You can select a color that matches your grout color.
This is how it was done in my kitchen as well.
Yes the best thing to use in these areas is caulk. You do not want to have to use a huge amount of caulk because that makes it appear to be covering something up. It sounds to me as if the builder did this to keep the same consistent look but unfortunately grout does not expand and contract very well and there usually isn’t much space for the grout to get into between the tile and counter top. It is always best where any two surfaces to meet to caulk just the edge to avoid any future issues and keep the aesthetic look.