Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone

Wholesale to Public

Granite Buying Made Simple

Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone   Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone

Wholesale to Public

Granite Buying Made Simple

Give Us A Call: (303) 420-3331

Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone

Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone   Simple Tips for Maintaining Stone

Beginning 1/19/2023 showroom visits and material pickups require scheduled appointments. Please call 303-420-3331 to make an appointment. Thank you!.

With advances in technology and manufacturing techniques, stones have become more affordable throughout recent years. Most homeowners nowadays have real stone countertops in their kitchen or bathroom surfaces. The most popular choice around the globe for stone surfaces is granite. Granite is a durable and easily maintained stone that will look and perform like new for decades after installation. Homeowners also love marble and quartzite as alternative countertop options. These stones also function great in a kitchen or bathroom setting, but often require a different kind of upkeep depending on the chosen variety. Regardless of the countertops you currently have, it’s important to maintain them now before it’s too late. There are a number of ways to properly keep your stones looking fresh and operating efficiently, and it’s a good idea to get a grasp on each method prior to selecting which stone fits your design and lifestyle needs. 

 

You’ll find different information and advice for how to properly care for granite all over the internet. Beware of all this conflicting misinformation, some of it is certainly correct, while others are pretty far from the truth. Much of the incorrect advice stems from generalizations or misinterpretation of the right way to do things. We’ve been in business long enough to have a wealth of information, expert advice, and proven solutions to all of your stone maintenance needs. 

 

It’s important to keep in mind that your countertops are stone. They’ll most likely outlast your house, or even you! These are very durable structures made to last. Maintenance is always important, but these things are strong and have demonstrated their magnificence time and time again. Of course it’s possible that a stone can become damaged, but repair is usually a breeze. 

 

As a general rule, a sealer should be applied to all natural stone. With that said, there are many varieties of granite and other stones that don’t require any sealer ever. We recommend doing extensive research on the stone you decide to go with prior to making any sealing or other maintenance decisions. Our specialists are trained to educate customers on the different recommendations for each variety of stone. 

 

Blot Up Spills Immediately

 

It may seem obvious, but spills are a common problem that countertops have to deal with. Many of the substances spilled on counters are highly acidic, like coffee wine, fruit juices, tomato sauce, and sodas. It’s easy to just wipe these spills up on granite or quartzite, but marble maintenance is a bit more involved. Because marble is generally quite porous, simple spills can potentially stain the surface if not immediately tended to. Things like cooking oils can also leave a stain on stone surfaces. Consider these factors before choosing which stone countertop is right for you.

 

Clean Surfaces With a Sponge or Soft Cloth

 

Using a specially formulated natural stone cleaner for your countertops is highly recommended for protection. Most of these cleaners come in specialized varieties depending on the stone that you have. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any specially designed cleaner on-hand, hot water should do the trick. Using dish soap on your countertops for cleaning is okay every once in a while and won’t permanently damage it, but prolonged use will cause build-up and dull the shine of your surfaces.

 

Use Coasters, Trivets, Hot Pads, and Cutting Boards

 

For the most part, using materials like coasters or cutting boards is a useful way for preventing any long term damage to your stones. For granite, this is generally less of an issue, as etching and cosmetic damage is a bit harder to achieve. For stones like marble and quartzite, using materials that separate sharp utensils and other dangerous items from your countertops is recommended. Creating a barrier is one of the easiest and most effective ways of preventing damage on your surfaces. Most stones don’t need a hot plate and are heat resistant enough to hold, but occasionally counters will crack if an item with an unbearably high temperature touches its surface.

 

There are so many ways to improve the health of the materials in your home. The aforementioned methods of maintenance are just a few simple tips to keep your stones looking and performing like new for years. If you have any questions regarding general maintenance of your countertops, please don’t hesitate to give our specialists a call.