How to Maintain and Care for Granite Countertops

1. HOW TO MAINTAIN AND CARE FOR GRANITE COUNTERTOPS Granite countertops would usually be the most beautiful and durable addition to a kitchen or bathroom. Known for its natural beauty, granite countertops have a reputation for being heat and scratch-resistant while enduring decades with the proper care. Regular maintenance is key in preserving the glossy finish and damage prevention. Here’s how to keep granite countertops in Southlake, TX, looking as pristine as the day they were put in. CLEAN GENTLY AND REGULARLY The first thing folks want to do is a proper maintenance and clean granite countertops. Do not use harsh or acidic cleaners like vinegar, bleach, or ammonia because these can destroy the seal and dull the surface. Best to use mild dish soap and warm water together with a soft cloth or sponge for daily cleanings. They can also use granite-specific cleaning solutions that are pH- balanced and safe for natural stone. Immediately wipe spills, especially wine, coffee, or citrus juices—these are notorious for staining.

2. SEAL THE SURFACE TO PREVENT STAINS Granite is a porous stone, so it can’t completely absorb any liquid from inside the house unless sealants are used. Often most granite countertops come sealed right out of the factory and that sealant wears off over time. To find out when to reseal countertops, do the water test: put a few drops on the surface and watch it absorb or darken quickly: time to reseal. As a rule, resealing should occur once every year or every other year, depending on the usage of the countertop. For best results, choose a high-quality granite sealer and strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions. PROTECT FROM PHYSICAL AND HEAT DAMAGE Granite is resistant to heat and scratching, but taking precautions is still best. Scratch the surface, dull knives, and individuals are going to probably scratch it using an uncut portion. Place trivets or hot pads directly under the hot pan instead of placing them on the granite. It will take several direct placements before the granite tends to crack, but over time, it may begin to weaken the sealant or, on rare occasions, produce thermal shock. Do not leave heavy objects unsupported on the corners or edges, as this might cause the granite to crack. By learning these simple maintenance habits, people are sure to have pretty and functioning granite countertops for quite a while. Able to stand up to regular cleaning, proper sealing, and careful use, granite will continue to prove an excellent investment of elegance and added value to their home. CONTACT US (817) 788-1966