Effective tips to extend the life of your granite countertops. Granite is a popular choice for countertops not only for its natural beauty, but its resiliency to daily abuse. The resilient nature of granite equates to long-lasting durability in your countertops.
There are basic steps you can follow if you wish to enjoy your countertops for many years to come. Read this helpful article on maintaining your investment… and long live your granite countertops!
Professional Granite Installation Granite Countertop Care
Proper installation of granite countertops is the first step to ensuring you are making a smart investment. See what others have to say about our quality-focused countertop installation. Let a professional handle the initial installation of your countertops, and ongoing maintenance will be much easier.
Regular Cleaning
Cleaning granite countertops should be a piece of cake, especially if they are properly sealed (see below). Here are a few handy resources on granite cleaning:
- How to polish granite countertops for lasting shine
- How to clean soap scum from granite, tile and marble surfaces
- Granite stain removal guide
The underlying idea is to treat the surface as though it is not as durable as it is. As with any surface, you should clean up any spills or moisture immediately. Do not use the countertops as a cutting board or place hot pans directly on the surface. Beware of abrasive cleaners with strong chemicals; always opt for mild soap and warm water to clean granite countertops.
Sealing Granite
Although durable, granite is naturally porous, meaning that it is susceptible to stains. When cleaning granite seems more difficult than it should be, it’s probably time to apply a water-based sealant or have a professional apply a more advanced sealant. We recommend sealing granite countertops at least once a year for protection and peace of mind.
For scratches or dings, use a color-matching epoxy or resin filler found at a local home improvement store. Sand and seal the surface once dry. For large cracks or chips (the size of an ice cube or larger) in the stone, call in a professional.
By sticking to these three foundational steps for granite countertop care, you will be enjoying your investment for a very long time.