Granite looks great. For anyone that’s chosen to have granite laid out on the countertop in a kitchen or other space, there’s nothing quite like the pleasing, natural, unique look of the swirls, shades and other elements that make up this stone. Granite is also, unsurprisingly, a durable and hardy material. When properly maintained, this is a surface that is likely to last the lifetime of a home and beyond.
But granite’s not some miracle substance immune to wear and tear. There are things you can do to help the lifespan of your granite countertop, and there are things you can do to hurt that. Let’s look at both of these aspects now.
Don’t Use Generic Cleaning Solutions
You may be tempted to simply get any cleaner you see at a grocery store or other outlet, and use that cleaner for everything from your sinks in your bathroom to your granite countertop in your kitchen. Resist this impulse when it comes to your countertop.
There are dedicated, specialty cleaning formulas that are designed to work with natural surfaces like granite. Unlike the off the shelf, generic cleaners, these do not contain the acids, alkalis or other possible corrosive substances that may damage natural surfaces.
Don’t Store Liquids Directly On Your Counter
You may have a granite countertop in your kitchen, or perhaps your bathroom. While it may be natural to think this is a place to put your lotions or your cooking oils, it’s not recommended you do this, even when they are in bottles.
Leaks or just dripping residue from these bottles can eventually run down the container and make contact with the stone it sits on. Over time, enough exposure to these liquids may lead to a permanent stain or even discoloration. Use a tray or some other container.
Do Clean Spills As Soon As They Happen
When you’re dealing with natural stone surfaces, a spill is not something you want to let linger. Although granite is a much sturdier substance, and not as prone to etching as something like travertine, it can still be affected by liquids if those liquids are left to sit along enough. Always wipe up liquids when spills happen. This is especially true with liquids like wine or sodas that may stain the surface if left unattended for too long.
Do Use Cutting Boards
Granite is a tough surface, so this advice isn’t to actually protect your granite, so much as the knives you’ll be using on it! While it’s possible that chopping up ingredients may cause some small scratches to your granite, the more likely outcome is that your knives will wear out faster from the repeated force of impact against such a hard surface. If you’ve gone to the expense of getting quality kitchen knives and a beautiful granite surface, don’t hurt either of these investments. Protect your knives by using a proper cutting board instead of letting them hit hard, inflexible granite.
Keep It Polished With Us
Groutsmith Tulsa is an expert in maintaining all kinds of stone surfaces including your granite countertop. If you’d like some extra protection, such as getting your granite sealed, or you just want a professional to breathe new life into the counter with a high quality cleaning and polish, we’re here for you! Just contact us and explain what you need so we can start a consultation on how to help.
