Care for granite is an extremely crucial element when it comes to taking care of your kitchen countertops. Here are 5 best methods when it comes to care procedures for granite countertops.

Care For Granite #1: Conducting Regular Cleaning Procedures

Regular cleaning will keep your granite countertops beautiful and long-lasting. Besides being durable, granite is a porous surface — great care should be taken in cleaning it to preserve the appearance and integrity. For everyday cleaning, warm water with a soft cloth or sponge and adding a mild dish soap works just fine. This mild solution cleans the surface without allowing grime and bacteria to build up and does not damage the surface. 

Harsh chemical cleaners especially those containing ammonia, vinegar or other acidic elements are best avoided since these may dull the finish and degrade the sealant over time. The spills mostly from the acidic foods or beverages such as citrus juices and wine are to be wiped up immediately to prevent stains and etching.

In addition to cleaning, recommended practice would be to do a more serious wipe-down with a cleaner for granite. These products will mean the safe removal of stains and extra protection given to the stone. Cleaning requires being really careful not to scratch the surface with abrasive sponges or scrubbers. It should be cleaned with soft microfibre cloths for picking up dirt and other substances. 

For a more thorough cleaning after intense use or in cases of high-traffic areas, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied and left on for some time before rinsing off. You not only beautify the countertops but also extend the life of your granite by simply prioritising regular cleaning.

Care For Granite #2: Handling Stains Properly

Proper care for stains is needed so that the beauty and lifespan of the granite countertops can be maintained. As this stone is porous, it absorbs liquids whenever it is left unattended. For this reason, ugly stains are easily created whenever it is not immediately cleaned. To not stain as much as possible, immediate spills must be cleaned. 

Oil-based stains from cooking and greasy foods can be effectively removed with a paste of baking soda and water. Apply to the direct stain, cover the area with plastic wrap to hold in the moisture and let it remain for 24 hours. After that, wash it off with warm water. The baking soda soaking process pulls out the stains from the stone.

Hydrogen peroxide works well in the case of water-based stains such as coffee or fruit juice. Take a clean cloth and dip it in hydrogen peroxide and gently dab the stain. You can also make a baking soda paste and apply on the surface. Let this sit for a while before rinsing. In case the stains are tough, you can then use a commercial cleaner but one that is specially formulated for granite so that it does not harm the surface. 

Sealing your granite countertops on a regular basis is another way to help avoid stains from setting in. This helps form a barrier against stains and resealing is usually recommended once a year depending on the type of granite and usage. Paying attention to stains the moment they appear and making sure to take some precautionary measures will let your granite countertops remain as a gorgeous centrepiece in your kitchen or bathroom for many years to come.

Care For Granite #3: Ensuring Sealing Is Carried Out

Sealing is very essential in granite countertops which increases the life span of the granite by keeping it always beautiful. Since the granite is a type of porous natural stone, it tends to absorb liquids and cause stains on the surface unless it is sealed. The process of sealing is done by applying a protective coating to avoid water and other contaminants seeping into the stone. It is recommended to seal granite countertops every six to twelve months and this is highly reliant on the type of granite as well as the usage of the countertop. 

Arguably, one of the best tests to determine whether a home owner should consider sealing their is by using water. Place a couple of drops of water on the surface and if the water does not penetrate through the surface, the seal on the countertop is still viable. If it soaks into the surface easily, it is time to consider carrying out a resealing process. Sealing should be done by applying a high-quality sealant meant for porous stones such as granite.

Application can be done by thoroughly cleaning the countertop to remove any dirt or grime that are considered leftovers, letting it dry properly and then applying the sealant with a soft cloth or an applicator provided with the product. After application, it is advisable to let it cure for the recommended time by the manufacturer to ensure that a proper seal is created on the surface.

The regular sealing prevents staining from spills including wine and coffee. Additionally, it preserves the natural look and qualities of the stone — preventing it from growing dull with time. Sealed granite is generally more resistant to bacteria and healthier when it comes to food preparation. In other words, protecting the granite countertops against damage helps them retain their look so that they may continue to be the focal point in the kitchen or bathroom for many more years to come.

Care For Granite #4: Prevention Of Any Type Of Damage

One of the major ways to care for the granite to last longer and continue to be great in appearance is preventing damage. It is highly recommended to put trivets or hot pads on the countertop first before setting any hot pot or pan onto the surface because very high heat may cause thermal shock — resulting in either cracking or discolouration. 

To avoid scratches, always make use of a cutting board while slicing or chopping food as direct cutting onto the granite results in unsightly marks and further deteriorates the finish. In addition, one should avoid using heavy items around it since too much weight especially on the edges may result in an issue of cracks or chips. Cleaning up spills right away is very much important to prevent stains.

Particular attention has to be given to spills from substances with an acidic pH such as citrus juices, vinegar and wine since they can etch the surface. Those types of spills will have permanent discolouration if this is left unattended. Regular sealing is important with granite — a good quality granite sealer acts like a shield against moisture and stains. 

It is usually recommended that resealing should be done every year, depending on the usage. You can always do this simple test — just put a few drops of water on the countertop to see how the seal holds up. If the water quickly absorbs, it is time for a reseal. It will also avoid damage if only mild and pH-balanced cleaners designed for granite are used. Lastly, always be very careful not to scratch the surface with heavy appliances or devices. With just a little preventive care, you will be able to protect your granite countertops and keep them beautiful and functional for years to come.

Care For Granite #5: Preventing Weight Overload

Another important way of caring for granite countertops include avoiding too much weight on the surface. Although granite is known to be very durable and strong, it is bound to incur some kind of damage when subjected to too much pressure or weight especially at its edges. In order for you to extend the life of your countertops, you ought to avoid sitting, standing or placing heavy things on it. 

For example, do not encourage people to perch on the edge or sit upon a countertop island you may have — causing the countertop to crack or chip. When it concerns storing heavy appliances or placing items on your countertops, distribute the weight as evenly as possible across the surface. Use a cabinet or shelf to store heavier things if possible which will help in reducing the load the granite has to bear.

Also, while preparing food and keeping huge pots and pans on the edge of the countertop, be concerned to avoid creating pressure points which may lead to fractures after some time. These precautions will help maintain not only the structural integrity of the granite but also retain its aesthetic appeal. 

Regular checks for any chips or cracks will also be a big help in early detection and potentials — allowing for repairs on time. With a little extra weight and consideration in how you make use of the granite countertops, they will be able to remain as an attractive and notable focal point in your home for a long time to come. This proactive care will extend the life of the granite, allowing it to show its best with protection against costly repairs and replacements.