Important Tips for Taking Care of Granite Countertops

Homeowners often approach us at CCT Natural Stone Designs to help remodel a kitchen or bathroom that has lost its luster. Often, that’s because their granite countertops have not been cared for properly. Our team can service your countertops to keep them looking as clean and polished as they did when they were first installed.

If you are planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, keep this advice in mind so you can take care of your new countertops from the beginning. It isn’t hard to care for granite, but regular maintenance will keep it looking great so you can enjoy it for years to come.

Invest in Sealant

Sealant protects your granite countertop from stains. Granite is a durable stone, but it is also porous, which means it can become discolored with age and use.

At CCT Natural Stone Designs, we can recommend and apply an appropriate sealant to coat your granite countertop surfaces, protecting them from substances leaching into the stone. A good sealant can last 10 to 15 years and prevent oil- and water-based substances from penetrating into the stone.

It’s best to apply a sealant when your new countertops are installed, but our crew can touch up your granite with a fresh coat even if you’ve enjoyed your countertop for years.

It’s a good idea to hire a professional to apply sealant to make sure your countertops are cleaned correctly before applying a coat. An expert like the ones at CCT Natural Stone Designs will also know how to select the correct sealant and keep the area well-ventilated and otherwise safe while the work is being performed.

Keep Your Countertops Clean

Normal food products can stain granite. These include coffee, tomato sauce, wine, juice, cooking oils, and soda.

Use a sponge or cloth with a stone and granite cleaner to quickly mop up spills. If you don’t have any on hand, hot water works in a pinch. Repeated use of dish soap will build up on a granite countertop and dull its luster.

Steer clear of bleach, glass cleaner, vinegar, ammonia, lemon, and grout cleaner. Each can damage a granite surface and cause it to lose its shine.

Products designed specifically for natural stone are the best choice to care for your granite countertops and preserve its surface.

Protect Against Cuts and Scratches

Remember to use coasters, cutting boards, and pot rests. These will prevent spills and protect against nicks and cuts. Granite is a strong material, but even grit from the underside of pots and pans can scratch your countertop, especially with repeated use. Using a cutting board will ensure that your knives are protected as well, since granite will quickly wear down their cutting edges.

If you notice damage, a skilled CCT Natural Stone Designs expert can offer advice and probably perform repair work, but it’s always a good idea to prevent damage in the first place.

If you have a question about granite maintenance and repair, call CCT Natural Stone Designs today!