How to Maintain Granite Countertops

Granite is a unique and beautiful stone that comes in a wide variety of shades and hues. It has been prized for centuries as a building material, due to its Granite countertops are a magnificent addition to any home, beautiful to behold, adding a touch of class and elegance to any room.

Granite countertops are also an important investment, adding to the beauty and resale value of your home. It is essential to provide proper care and maintenance for your countertops so that they can continue to look as good as they did when you just had them installed.

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Here are some tips to ensure you keep your granite countertops in top-notch condition:

Sealing: An effective seal helps reduce the chance of staining by creating a barrier between the granite and any compounds. The seal also keeps your countertops hygienic by preventing moisture from seeping into granite's naturally porous surface. Historically, resealing your granite countertops was recommended as frequently as every year. The sealers used were water-based or solvent-based and would break down over time and with the use of everyday household cleaners. It was recommended that countertops be cleaned with warm soapy water only. In the recent years, a lifetime sealer, often with a 15 year stain-warranty, has been introduced to the market, completely changing the traditional rules of how to care for granite countertops. These new sealers are more like treatments, which molecularly bond to the stone and don't need to be reapplied. They are strong enough to stand up to common household cleaners in many circumstances as well. Ask your countertop provider what type of sealers they offer.

Stains: Even if you've protected your granite with sealants, it's always a good idea to be proactive and prevent stains from setting. You should always clean up spills immediately, using a blotting technique rather than wiping to avoid spreading the spilled substance. Most stains can generally be removed by cleaning the surface with dish soap and water. You should never clean your countertops with acidic cleaners, as these can cause scratching. Afterwards, be sure to always dry the surface with a clean cloth.

Cleaning: For fantastic looking granite countertops, make sure you clean them regularly. Small particles of food or residue buildup can cause your countertops to feel "gritty" or lose its shine. With certain stones, you can even use a razor blade to strip away any stubborn grit - but make sure you ask your expert countertop provider first.

If you encounter any problems that you are unable to fix with the above suggestions, you should contact the dealer who sold you the countertops for additional assistance. However, granite is a very durable stone, and with the right amount of care, your granite countertops will look stunning and flawless for years to come.

How to Maintain Granite Countertops

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