It may sound complicated, but care for granite countertops is no big deal. Cleaning granite should be easy once you learn the simple tips in doing it. Of course, correct cleaning methods and proper maintenance are crucial as well.
Choosing granite as your countertop material is one of the most beautiful choices you can make. But you need to know how to take care of it properly. Fortunately, we have thoroughly explained and outlined everything that you need to know. Don’t worry. Granite countertops have low maintenance. But, it would be best if you were consistent in doing it.
How To Properly Care For Granite Countertops?
Taking care of your granite countertops will keep them looking fabulous for decades. But, despite the low maintenance, you will still need to put some effort into keeping the stone looking good. You can use this guide to learn how to care for your granite countertops properly.
Correct knowledge is vital.
Be wary of all the conflicting advice on how to clean granite countertops that you’ll find online. Some are right, while others offer misleading information. Unfortunately, a lack of comprehension accounts for the majority of errors in advice and solutions.
As a result, it’s simple to become perplexed and frustrated. But then, it is where the granite countertops become ugly or damaged. It’s best if you can consult with your granite fabricator about the best care for your granite countertops.
Efficient and consistent maintenance routine.
Aside from daily cleaning, there are other maintenance routines that you need to do every week or year. For example, the cleaning you do after washing the dishes or cleaning would help maintain its appearance. But there are some things that daily cleaning can’t do. So here are some routines that you can do.
Daily:
- Wipe it off. Clean spills and remove them from your kitchen countertops throughout the day. All you need is hot water and a dish towel or sponge.
- A fast spray and wipe with a decent granite counter cleaner can do the job. It will clean, sanitize, and preserve your countertops while leaving a streak-free sheen.
Weekly:
- Remove (or set away) all things off the counter and clean the entire surface. It includes the edges, using the granite cleaner. This way, you can get rid of any dust, debris, or concealed muck or spills accumulated around appliances, containers, dish racks, and other similar items.
- Using a particular granite cleaning solution will also assist in conditioning the stone, protect the sealer, and keep its sheen. If you keep your kitchen organized and limit the clutter on the counters, this process will be much easier.
Monthly:
- A temporary granite polish enhances the shine of the granite. It gives you the ultimate natural stone and granite care. But note that you can’t use it for maintenance or repair. This type of product only “enhances” the shine (like waxing a car). You can improve the cleaning process and eliminate fingerprints on the granite countertops. At the same time, granite polish provides a slight bit of protection.
Yearly:
- It’s a good idea to test granite countertops for sealing (the lemon juice and water drop tests) once a year. It determines when granite countertops require reapplication of sealer. When the water around the sink darkens the stone, you’ll know it’s time to reseal. It is a sign that the granite is starting to absorb the water and needs to get resealed.
Avoid repeated use of harsh cleaning products.
Avoid using everyday household cleaners or regular cleaning products to clean your marble countertops. This exposure can potentially dull the finish of the granite gradually.
If your granite countertops have become dull in spots, use a legitimate granite polish and cleaner. It can bring back its original shine. However, if the surface is dull, rough, or damaged, a stone restoration pro may be crucial to re-polish granite.
Granite Repair Issues & Solutions
Sometimes, some accidents may happen that can cause issues to your granite countertops. So, we’ve listed some common problems and solutions that you can try before calling a professional granite installer.
Granite Stains
In granite, stains are always black streaks. In most cases, though, you may readily control this problem by using a granite sealer. With a granite poultice, most stains are reasonably easy to remove.
Since the stains are inside the stone beneath the surface, the standard cleaning approach will not work. Also, keep in mind that the granite hue might give you an idea of how likely a particular block of granite is to stain.
- Darker granite colors (brown, blue, and black) are less porous and less susceptible to discolor.
- Some granite tints (such as most black granite countertops) are so deep that staining is almost impossible, and sealing is unnecessary.
- Lighter colors, mainly white granite countertops, are the most porous and stain-prone.
The key to eliminating a granite stain is to figure out what created it in the first place. Then, while cleaning the stain on your granite countertops, match that to the correct chemical ingredient for eradicating that type of stain.
Granite Chip Repair
When tiny particles of minerals become loose by an impact, pits and chips can form in granite countertops. It occurs most frequently near the sink. Some granites never get holes, while others are prone to chipping and pitting. As a result, you may never notice a hole in your granite countertop, or you may see it over time.
Filling the hole with a color-matched epoxy can be used to fix a granite chip. It works, but it’s noticeable most of the time. Thus, filling the pits or chips with clear acrylic for almost undetectable repair is superior.
Granite Crack Repair
It’s never enjoyable to discover a crack in your granite countertop, but it doesn’t always signal disaster. Repairing granite cracks is a complicated operation that varies depending on the type of crack. Hairline cracks are frequently harmless, do not cause difficulties, and do not worsen.
But it would help if you repaired it correctly to avoid the ‘marks’ of the crack. For example, a skilled stone restoration specialist may fix damage in granite and refinish it. Fortunately, the repaired break is virtually undetectable.
Doctored Granite Countertops
Doctored granite is primarily an issue with black granite countertops. A dye is applied to black granite slabs while at the factory to make them a darker black which commands a higher price. It is a fraudulent practice. Still, doctored slabs can be difficult to detect and quickly make it into the marketplace.
The problem here is that the dye can cause the granite to have an etching or discoloration issue where acidic foods, drinks, or cleaners create dull, chalky spots. Granite is not naturally reactive to acids and will not etch except in extreme circumstances with exposure to potent acids or repeated exposure to acids. A doctored granite countertop is a real pain because there’s no real fix.
Conclusion
The best way to care for granite countertops is to clean and maintain them regularly. If you don’t clean the dirt every day, it will build until it’s too thick to remove. As a result, the granite countertops’ beauty may get ruined.
One of the most attractive selections you can make for your countertop material is granite. But, first, you must understand how to care for it properly. If you need help caring for your granite countertops in the Bay Area, Quintal’s Granite & Marble Inc. is at your service.
Extra! Are granite countertops will go out of style? Read more.
Quintal’s Granite & Marble Inc.
408-295-8233
1775 Monterey Rd #64a, San Jose, CA 95112, United States
