Homeowners looking to increase the value of their homes enjoy durability and easy maintenance when upgrading to granite countertops. Granite is the most durable of all stones, second only to diamonds. Granite, created from molten rock, can withstand the heat of a hot pot without a trivet. The surface hardness is excellent for handling dough and confectionery products. However, while they are durable and low maintenance, they are not immune to damage.
Properly installed granite countertops should last a lifetime, a justification for the higher costs associated with material and installation. The granite supplier should provide personalized care instructions for each slab, as all granite is made up of many different minerals. Even if two different stone slabs come from the same part of the world, there will be variations in the granite that require different types of care.
Proper care ensures the longevity and beauty expected of this premium product. In addition to the polished finish, it is possible to obtain a “honed” or flat finish. Although a matte finish can be very attractive, it is not recommended for kitchen use. Over time, daily use will tend to shine some areas, and the additional sealers needed will distract from the beauty of the surface. A polished finish is easier to maintain with regular care that includes proper cleaning and the use of sealers to prevent staining.
Caring for a polished finish begins with daily attention to what is placed on the surface. Granite countertops are hard and can withstand a dropped soup can, but the polished surface is a bit more delicate. Never use granite as a cutting surface, always use a cutting board. Avoid leaving acidic foods like lemon juice, vinegar, and soft drinks on the surface for too long as they can etch the surface. Another thing that takes the shine off polish is harsh cleaning products or abrasive cleaners (liquid or powder). To clean the surface without leaving streaks, use only a small amount of warm water with a pH balanced dishwashing liquid.
Although granite is extremely hard, some of the minerals it contains can be very soft. The existence of different minerals is what makes granite easy to scratch, chip or break along the grain. To protect the surface, it is recommended to avoid dragging pots, pans or appliances on the stone. Running something across the counter that has even a grain of sugar under it will scratch the polished surface. Scratches allow stains to mar a beautiful surface.
Once a year, a penetrating sealer should be applied. Regular polishing will keep the finish sparkling. Use a penetrating sealer recommended by the dealer or homebuilder. Avoid using a stone sealer that won’t penetrate the stone, as it will create a cloudy surface that will need to be removed by stripping the countertop completely with strong solvents. Remember, the brilliant shine is not caused by a coating on the surface, but by expert polishing with diamond polishing tools.
If there is minor damage to a granite countertop, it can be fixed by the owner. If a pot or pan leaves a gray or black mark on the surface, it can be polished with fine steel wool. If a glue-like substance sticks to the countertop, it can be scraped off with a credit card or single-sided razor blade. Small marks made during removal can be polished with a fine steel wool. If the granite is chipped or cracked, a professional should be called in for unseen repairs.
In addition to its strength, granite is a very beautiful stone that brings color and warmth to any kitchen. With just a little care to protect its beauty and utility, granite countertops will last a lifetime.