Granite countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, to ensure that your granite countertops maintain their shine and strength, it’s important to take proper care of them. You can take help from a granite company in this regard. In this post, we’ll go over some tips on how to maintain your granite countertops and keep them looking great for years to come.
Taking care of your granite countertops
The first step in ensuring that your granite countertops remain in good condition is to choose a reputable granite company for their installation. A professional granite installer will properly seal your granite countertops, ensuring that they are protected from stains, scratches, and other damages. They will also give you proper care instructions to help maintain the quality of your countertops.
Daily Cleaning
One of the most important aspects of maintaining your granite countertops is regular cleaning. Wipe your countertops daily with a soft, damp cloth or sponge to remove any dirt or spills. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the surface of your countertops. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for granite surfaces.
Stain Prevention
Granite is a porous material, meaning that it can stain easily. To prevent staining, it’s important to clean up spills as soon as they occur. Even acidic liquids such as lemon juice or vinegar can etch the surface of your granite countertops, so it’s important to wipe them up immediately. Using coasters under drinks and placing hot pans on trivets can also help prevent stains and damage to your granite.
Sealing
Sealing your granite countertops is an essential step in maintaining their appearance and durability. Sealing should be done every 1-2 years, depending on the level of use and the type of granite. To check if your countertops need to be sealed, pour a small amount of water onto the surface. If the water beads up, the countertops are properly sealed. If the water soaks in, it’s time to reseal. You can purchase a granite sealer from a home improvement store or hire a professional to do it for you.
Avoid Sharp Objects
While granite is a durable material, it’s not indestructible. Avoid cutting directly on your granite countertops, as this can cause scratches and damage. Always use a cutting board to protect the surface of your granite. Similarly, avoid dropping heavy objects on your granite countertops, as this can also cause chips and cracks.
Regular Maintenance
In addition to daily cleaning, there are a few other maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your granite countertops in top condition. One is to regularly polish your countertops with a granite-specific polish to help maintain their shine. Another is to address any chips or cracks in the surface as soon as possible to prevent them from worsening. You can purchase a granite repair kit from a home improvement store or hire a professional to do it for you.
Cleaning Granite Countertops
Cleaning granite countertops is relatively easy, but it is essential to use the right products and techniques to avoid damage. Here are some cleaning tips to keep your granite countertops in top shape:
- Use a soft cloth or sponge: Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or steel wool pads as they can scratch the surface of the granite.
- Use a gentle cleanser: Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners such as vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia, as they can etch the surface of the granite. Instead, use a gentle cleanser specifically designed for granite countertops.
- Dry the surface: After cleaning, use a dry cloth to wipe the countertop dry. Moisture left on the surface can cause water stains.
Conclusion
Maintaining your granite countertops is essential to ensuring their longevity and beauty. By choosing a reputable granite company, regularly cleaning your countertops, preventing stains, sealing when necessary, avoiding sharp objects, and performing regular maintenance tasks, you can keep your granite countertops looking as good as new for years to come. If you do notice any damage or issues with your granite countertops, be sure to contact a professional for help with repairs or commercial granite countertops Durham NC maintenance.