The Do’s & Don’ts Of Granite Countertop Care And Maintenance

Granite CountertopIt’s no secret that granite countertops are quite an investment, which is why it’s so important that they’re properly cared for. To make sure that your granite countertops stay clean and beautiful, like the day they were installed, follow these granite care do’s & don’ts :

 

Do Have Your Granite Sealed

What makes this stone so durable has a lot to do with sealants. A sealant is used on granite stone to protect against stains, scratches and to make it non-porous. However, without the proper seal or even a damaged seal your granite is at risk. To check if your natural stone sealant is damaged add a few drops of water to the countertop. If the water beads up, your seal is working, however if the water soaks into the pores of your granite you’ll need to reseal your countertop. We recommend re-sealing your natural stone once a year or

 

Don’t Leave Spills

Allowing spills to sit on your countertop can damage granite by leaving dark stains, which will affect the aesthetics of your counter and diminish its lifespan, especially if your counter isn’t properly sealed.

 

Do Clean Up Right Away

Any liquid or oil spills should be cleaned up right away to protect the liquid from seeping into the pores of the granite. Even with a great sealant, you still want to be extra careful.

 

Don’t Use Acidic Cleaning Liquids or Sprays

Regularly cleaning your granite countertops is important, but the types of products you use is key to maintaining its appearance and lifespan. Cleaners that contain acid, vinegar, bleach or ammonia should never be used to clean granite as they’re too strong and can damage the seal and stone.

 

Do Use Mild Soap To Clean Granite

To clean your granite countertops simply use a soft cloth, warm water and a mild dish soap, preferably one that is phosphate-free.

 

Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners

Do not use abrasive cleaners to care for your granite because they can also damage your stone. A soft cloth will do the trick!

 

By following these do’s and don’ts you’ll extend the life of your granite and avoid stains and scratches. If your stone needs to be refurbished our experts can enhance the appearance of your granite countertops, saving you money on a full replacement. Call us or click here for a quote!