Granite Countertops: Proper Maintenance And Care

Granite countertops are beautiful, durable, and come in a wide assortment of colors and styles to coordinate with any kitchen. If you are thinking about getting granite countertops installed or if you already have them, there are some things you can do to prolong your counter's beauty. Follow these tips to ensure that you enjoy your investment for a long time to come.

Daily Care

Just like any other material in your kitchen, you'll need to clean up any spills from your granite counters as soon as possible. While the countertops should be sealed to prevent staining, it's never recommended to let liquids or foods sit on the granite. If you happen to spill something like red wine, for instance, it could potentially stain your counters. Use a mild soap or a wet washcloth when you clean granite and never use abrasive cleaners. These types of cleaners can irritate the surface and wear away the sealant over time. Never place a hot pot or pan directly onto granite, and avoid cutting food directly on it as well to prevent nicks and scrapes in the stone.

Tougher Spills Or Stains

If you end up with a stubborn stain on your granite countertops, it's essential that you remove them very carefully to avoid damaging the surface. Purchase a special cleaner made especially for stone known as poultice. You can find this at most home improvement stores or stone dealers. This material contains a non-acidic clay in the form of powder that is designed to pull out stains from the stone without damaging it. You can also purchase a stone degreaser that can help remove gunk or greasy spills and stains that are not coming off easily. 

Applying Sealer

Your granite countertops were most likely treated with a resin sealer when they were manufactured and cut before installation. This sealant should last for many years, but depending on wear and tear, you may need to apply a new coat of sealant. If you decide to seal them, you must purchase and use sealers made specifically for this type of stone. Before you apply the sealant, clean off your counters and let them dry. Open and any doors and windows so you have adequate ventilation. Use foam brush to apply the sealant, and let is absorb into the stone. You may have to apply more than one coat if it appears that the sealant is absorbing too quickly and you don't see a shiny finish. Let the sealant dry overnight and you can continue to enjoy the beauty of your granite countertops for years to come. 

For granite countertops, contact a company such as GranBrazil Inc.