When deciding to install granite or stone countertops, you might think they’re mostly indestructible. That’s true, to an extent – they withstand a lot of use and environments –but they’re not above needing cleaning and repair.
There are many ways that cleaning for stone surfaces can come in handy. Repairs may also be needed along the way. The first step is to seal your stone countertops. This protects them from a number of problems, but damage can still occur if the seal is close to its two-year recommended limit.
The following are a few circumstances that could warrant professional cleaning and repair for your home’s stone surfaces.
Stains
The kitchen is home to many different materials. Liquids are especially dangerous for granite countertops and other stone surfaces, as they can stain the surface easily. It may not look like granite and stone have small areas where liquid could get in, but if left on the surface for too long, liquids can seep in and damage the color of the surface. Just as your skin has pores, so also a stone surface can absorb colorful substances in its own small pore-like openings.
Etch Marks
An etch mark results when an acidic substance burns or chemically reacts with the granite or stone surface. Cleaning is essential when this happens, as it will create a dull spot on the marble. Even common household food items can cause etch marks, so it is very important to clean up all spills quickly.
Chips
Granite and stone are strong, but sometimes the right amount of force can hit a weaker spot and cause a chip in the surface. This might lead to a sharp edge, which means professional repair is necessary in this case.
Scuffs
Cleaning of stone surfaces like granite often includes taking care of scuffs, dull parts of the slab that have worn down over time. This could happen especially in areas of the slab that receive daily use, such as an area always used for preparing dinners. After cleaning, a sealant could be reapplied in order to prevent further scuffing.
Cracks
These don’t happen often, but sometimes a stone surface will crack altogether. It’s important not to sit on granite or stone surfaces for this reason; at times, too much weight can lead to a massive repair situation. Also, if a heavy kitchen item is dropped from a high enough level, it may crack the granite.
If this happens, it is crucial to obtain professional repair services. Large cracks like this are rare, but they do happen, especially if the stone surface is not kept in good condition on a regular basis.
Now that you know many of the reasons cleaning for stone surfaces could be necessary, contact Groutsmith Tulsa today to get started with cleaning your kitchen countertops or other surfaces. We can help restore your stone surfaces to their original appearance and protect them from any further damage.
