Granite countertops are durable, functional, beautiful, and healthy- but certain precautions need to be followed to prolong the life of your granite. Granite is such a want among homeowners for its beauty, but also because it lasts for years and is easy to clean. If you take these extra precautions when taking care of your granite, you may even increase the lifespan of it. These do’s and don’ts of granite are a sure fire way to ensure you can enjoy your granite coutertop for years to come!
Our Do’s and Don’ts of Granite
#1: DO Clean up your spills
If you spill something on your granite, be sure to wipe it up reasonably fast. Granite can withstand some spills but if you let it sit for an extended period of time, your granite can stain. While granite is durable, it is also porous- meaning it can absorb liquid quickly. Just watch where you place drinks and wipe them up. Another thing you can do to avoid staining, is to seal your granite. For more ideas of how to clean your granite, click here!
#2: DO Use Coasters and Pot Holders
Granite can sometimes scratch and crack if exposed to glasses or bowls being scooted across the surface, as well as hot pots, pans, or cookie sheets. If you use coasters for your drinks and pot holders or dish towels to act as a protective barrier, the chance of scratching is limited. Typically, granite is very durable when it comes to heat, but it’s better to be safe than sorry and not place hot pots directly onto your countertop.
#3: DO Research your Cleaners
Make sure you research your cleaners and what is in them. Granite does best when it is cleaned daily with some warm water and light soap. If you use harsh acidic cleaners, they can eat through your countertops and potentially ruin them. There are specific cleaners made for granite countertops, and you can usually find them at almost any store that carries cleaning supplies. Again like we mentioned before, sealing your countertop is also a plus and a good protectant against harmful cleaners, spills, and cracks.
#4: Your Fabric Choice
Make sure that the fabric you are using to wipe down your granite is soft and non fibrous. A soft microfiber or a dish towel will do the job without damaging the surface. Rough textured towels, scrubbing sponges, and even some paper towels have components that will scratch and damage the top surface, which can ruin the slab and also degrade its overall appearance. Keeping a soft sponge or cloth close by will be worth it!
#5: Don’t Sit or Stand On The Counter
Granite is durable and is very strong, but granite is not a flexible material meaning it does not bow or bend with weight- it will crack. Avoid sitting or standing the counters, especially near connection points. Certain spots of your countertop have less support than others, and you may not see the damage right away, but you will significantly weaken the strength of your countertop.
#5: DO Overall Maintenance
All of the things above will help you prolong your countertops’ life span. There are common things that you probably do already, but don’t realize how significant they are. As far as the typical day to day upkeep of granite, it is very very simple and stress-free, which is what makes granite so great to have! If you follow these few things, day in and day out you are going to keep your granite in mint condition.
Daily:
Wipe down your countertop after cooking, crafts, or daily use to avoid stains and of course to keep your home clean and fresh. Wipe down the countertop with some light soap, water and a soft sponge.
Weekly:
Use a granite specific cleaner once a week to wipe the surface clean of any bacteria and to keep it sparkling.
Once A Year:
Once a year it is good to reseal your countertop as the seal only works at its maximum strength for about a year. The sealant can help avoid cracks, scratches, and any little bit of damage to your granite countertops!
Keep your granite in mint condition and sparkling by following the do’s and don’ts of granite detailed above. The steps are simple, but the benefits are so worth it! Granite is a perfect material due to its strength and looks fantastic in any home!