You love the elegance of your granite countertops, but you might wonder if you’re truly taking care of them as well as you could. After all, with granite, the wrong cleaner or a missed step can dull that beautiful surface over time.
Don’t worry—you’re not alone in wanting to keep your countertops in pristine shape. In this quick guide, we’ll reveal simple yet powerful tips to protect your granite, ensuring it stays as stunning as the day it was installed.
As a homeowner, understanding the composition of your granite countertops is key to understanding how to keep them beautiful and functional. Granite is a type of natural stone formed from cooling magma, giving it remarkable durability and the stunning patterns we all love.
This stone is a popular choice for kitchen countertops because it’s resistant to everyday wear, including minor scratches and spills. However, granite countertops are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids, which could lead to staining if spills aren’t quickly wiped away.
While granite can withstand moderate heat, it’s always best to use trivets or hot pads under pots and pans to avoid damage. Granite’s porosity also means that it needs sealing to protect against stains and other damage. Using a granite sealer will create a barrier on the surface, helping to prevent stains from penetrating and keeping your granite countertops looking great.
To keep your granite countertop in pristine condition, follow these simple yet effective tips for daily care:
Regular sealing is essential to keep your granite countertops protected and looking their best. Here’s how to ensure your granite stays resilient against stains and everyday wear:
Sealing is essential for protecting your granite countertop against stains and ensuring it maintains its beautiful luster. Since granite is a porous natural stone, it can absorb liquids, possibly leading to unsightly stains. Applying a high-quality sealer helps to fill those pores, creating a barrier that prevents stains from seeping in, keeping your granite countertops looking their best.
Generally, you should consider resealing your countertops every 1-2 years. However, the specific frequency can vary based on how often you use your kitchen countertop and the type of granite you have. Some granite surfaces, such as white granite, may need more frequent sealing, especially if they’re exposed to heavy daily use or have a more porous structure.
To determine if your countertop needs sealing, try the water test: Pour a small amount of water on a section of your granite surface and wait for about 15 minutes. If the water starts to absorb or darken the granite, it’s time to reseal. If it beads up, your seal is still effective.
Applying Sealer: A Step-by-Step Guide If you prefer DIY care, here’s how to use a granite sealer:
For the best results, let a professional handle the sealing for you because they have the specialized tools and expertise to ensure thorough coverage and long-lasting protection. While DIY sealing may seem straightforward, professionals can assess your granite’s unique needs, applying the right products and techniques to avoid common issues like streaks or missed spots.
To ensure your granite countertops remain beautiful and durable over the years, follow these essential long-term maintenance tips:
To keep your granite countertops in top condition, it’s essential to inspect them regularly for signs of wear. Look out for dull spots, etching, or any other indicators that may suggest the need for special care. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and extend the life of your stone countertops.
If you notice your granite countertop losing its shine, consider using a granite polish to restore its luster. Polishing granite can be likened to waxing a car—it helps to enhance the shine and protect the surface. Use a soft cloth to gently buff the surface, following the procedure for granite as recommended by the product. For stubborn spots, a mixture of baking soda and water can help, especially on black granite, which shows smudges more easily.
For long-term maintenance, annual or bi-annual professional deep cleaning is ideal to keep your granite looking its best. While regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient for daily upkeep, a stone care professional has access to specialized cleaning products that can thoroughly refresh your countertops without damaging the sealer. This extra layer of care for granite surfaces ensures they stay protected and vibrant.
Even with proper cleaning and maintenance, accidents can happen. For minor stains, baking soda and water paste can lift discoloration. Cover the affected area with the paste for tougher stains and place a piece of plastic wrap over it. Allow it to sit overnight, then gently wipe it away with a sponge to clean. If you encounter more significant damage, like chips or cracks, it may be best to consult a professional for repairs to ensure that your granite countertops can last a lifetime.
By following these maintenance routines, you can protect your countertop from stains, keep it looking polished, and ensure that your granite stays as stunning as the day it was installed.
Proper care and maintenance of your granite countertops will ensure they remain beautiful and durable for years. Remember to clean your granite countertops regularly, reseal them as needed, and handle them carefully to protect against stains and damage. By understanding your granite countertop needs, you’re preserving this material’s natural elegance and strength, allowing it to withstand daily use from hot pots to cutting boards.
If you’re considering new countertops or need guidance on selecting the right granite slab, RMI Surfaces is here to help. We invite you to visit our showroom to explore our extensive selection and consult with our experts. Schedule a consultation today to find the perfect natural stone countertops for your space and ensure they’re installed with the highest level of craftsmanship.
Granite countertops generally need to be sealed every 1-2 years, but the frequency can vary based on usage and the type of granite. Regular sealing is essential to maintaining your granite, as it helps prevent stains and ensures the countertop stays in good condition. If you notice that water no longer beads up on the surface, it’s a sign that your granite needs a fresh seal.
When choosing a granite cleaner, stick to pH-neutral products that won’t harm the stone. Mild dish soap and warm water are typically enough to clean granite countertops properly. Avoid acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, as they can degrade the seal and dull the finish. To maintain the natural beauty of your granite, it’s best to use gentle cleaning methods that support its low maintenance requirements.
Granite is also naturally resistant to heat but is not entirely immune to damage. Placing hot pots or pans directly on the countertop may cause cracks or discoloration over time, similar to how waxing a car protects the finish from heat and environmental factors. Using trivets or hot pads is a good practice to help care for your granite and prevent any potential damage from excessive heat exposure.