Caring for granite countertops and other countertop materials is important to maintain their beauty. This is true for granite, quartz and marble alike. Although quartz and granite are more resistant to stains, heat and scratches, they are not heat, stain and scratch proof!   Marble is a much more porous surface, so you need to be extra careful with scratching and staining.

As a rule of thumb, I always recommend you wipe up spills as soon as possible. It is important you don’t let liquids…even water, sit on countertops for long periods of time. You will see a darkening on the material, which may or may not return to its original color (all materials react differently). Especially avoid acidic liquids such as wine, vinegar, tea, lemon juice, soda fruits and vegetables, bleach, oil, soaps, strong chemicals and solvents.

Caring for Granite Countertops and Other Countertop Materials: Sealing Granite, Marble and Limestone:

Seal marble and limestone four times a year and granite twice per year; quartz does not require sealing. Follow the instructions per the package. There are even sealants now that state they last for 10 – 15 years. However, make sure you test your counters periodically with drops of water to see if beads and repelling occurs, if not, reseal asap!

Cleaning your Countertops:

Avoid acidic (vinegar or citrus-based), bleach or scouring powders. It is best to use warm soapy water, however if you use a cleaner, make sure they are approved for your surface and ammonia free.

Heat/Scratch/Crack Prevention – Do not place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface of any countertop material. Always use trivets and hot pads. Hot cooking pots will not damage the surface, however extreme or constant temperature changes may harm your stone.

  • While granite is highly scratch-resistant, do not cut on it directly; use a cutting board.
  • Never stand on your countertops! They can break if you place something very heavy especially on an overhang area – make sure you use brackets if necessary.

Removing Difficult Stains from Granite & Marble

Please review this link for methods of stain removal for different types of stains: http://www.stonesource.com/care-maintenance/. If difficult stains persist, you can try using a stone poultice. Stone poultice is a fine, non-acid, absorptive clay cleaning powder mix. The poultice may dull the shine of the polished stone and you may need to use a marble polish to restore the natural shine.

granite countertops kitchen

granite countertops bathroom

new countertops

These techniques should help when caring for granite countertops and other materials, but if you still would like more specific advice on care for your countertops, please contact us at 919-475-5966.

 

 

*Please note we are not responsible for stains once they are in your possession and these are only suggestions – we cannot guarantee they will work, or not cause more harm.