Two Tips For Granite Countertops Care
Vera Sang

Defined Tag: Granite Countertops Care.

Why are granite countertops so popular? One reason is the beauty that this stone possesses naturally and the variety of patterns and colors available. But, aesthetics aside, probably the most appealing reason homeowners choose granite countertops is that granite is one of the strongest most durable stones available for. Yes, granite is super tough and can stand up to daily abuse well. However, the proper care of it is too often overlooked.

Granite is hard but a porous stone and must be properly sealed to prevent the absorption of liquids and chemicals which could lead to discoloring it. The use of general cleaners can aggravate this since in cleaning the surface they tend to destroy the sealant. In order to avoid this happening it is necessary to make sure you use proper granite cleaners and sealants so that, firstly, the sealant is not prematurely destroyed and, secondly, that the sealant remains effective. When proper care is used your granite countertops will stay as beautiful and reflective as the day they were first installed.

You must know and remember that at the workshop while being processed your granite countertop has a sealant applied to it. This is to ensure it's protection against any liquid absorption and chemicals that would spoil the stones natural color and pattern. This sealant is sensitive to strong cleaning chemicals which are unnecessary and damaging so do not use them.With an effective sealant all that is required to clean your granite countertop is a damp cloth or sponge and perhaps a little dish cleaning soap (containing no acid) which is a low level cleaner and antibacterial agent. Wipe the whole surface down with this and do not be tempted to apply anything stronger. The hard surface of granite does not present many opportunities for bacteria to hide and granite is not a natural harbour for bacteria so only superficial cleaning, and wiping over, is usually necessary.

What ever you do when caring for your countertop it is advisable that you ensure the sealant remains effective against staining and discoloration. If your granite surface is in regular or frequent use then it is advisable to apply a fresh seal every six months at least, otherwise at a minimum of once each year. This procedure is neither difficult or costly, the only requirement is the application of a proper granite sealant on the surface. Believe it or not ordinary car wax will do the job in most cases and is often cheaper.

If in doubt it is best to ask your stone countertop supplier for a product they would recommend. Then it is a simple job of applying it much as you would wax a car. Knowing these tips for the care of your granite countertops will ensure your granite top will last a long time and always appear attractive and glossy.

That's all there is to it. As you can see nothing fancy or hard is involved in proper granite countertop care, the two things that you should do are simple, just don't use harmful cleaners to clean and make sure the sealant stays effective. Then you can expect a lifetime of use and enjoyment from your granite countertop.

Vera Sang writes about kitchen design including kitchen countertops and kitchen cabinets. She is the owner of Countertops And Cabinets.Com blog where you can get a fresh view daily of kitchen design ideas, product information, news and more relating to countertops materials for bathrooms, vanities and kitchens and more...