<p>Salt crystallization, one of the key deterioration mechanisms, can cause significant damage to heritage structures over time. This study investigates the effects of salt crystallization on the physical, mechanical, and microstructural properties of two granite types with distinct pore characteristics. A comprehensive experimental campaign, including mercury intrusion porosimetry, capillary absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity, uniaxial compressive tests, and digital image correlation, was conducted to evaluate the progression of salt-induced damage. Results from MIP, capillary absorption, and UPV primarily reflected the initial formation and growth of sodium chloride crystals within the pore network, highlighting their utility in capturing early-stage processes. Uniaxial compressive tests provided clear evidence of damage, revealing significant reductions in compressive strength and elastic modulus. The interplay between pore characteristics, crystallization pressures, and mechanical degradation revealed distinct damage behaviors in the two granite types. Granite with a capillary-active pore network showed greater susceptibility to salt crystallization, with a 55% reduction in compressive strength and a 14% increase in open porosity. DIC analysis complemented these findings, capturing early strain concentration and crack propagation patterns in salt-contaminated samples. The findings provide valuable insights into the salt-induced deterioration mechanisms of granite, emphasizing the importance of integrating multiple assessment methods for reliable damage evaluation strategies.</p>