Why has granite and engineered stone become so popular in today’s homes? Possibly because of the aesthetics and uniqueness of the slabs, the value it adds to the home and the low maintenance. If cared for properly, these countertops will last a lifetime.
Granite & engineered stone maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Use a mild soap and warm water for daily cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the sealant or the stone itself.
- Immediate Spill Cleanup: To prevent staining, especially on lighter granite, clean up spills immediately. Hard water, often found in Indiana, can be rough on these surfaces.
- Use Cutting Boards: While granite is scratch-resistant, it’s advisable to use cutting boards to avoid any potential damage to the surface.
- Sealing the Granite: Regular sealing, typically once a year, is crucial to maintain stain resistance, especially for lighter colors. Darker granite may not require sealing as frequently.
- Avoiding Extreme Heat: Although granite is heat resistant, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause damage. It’s advisable to use trivets for hot pots and pans.
Maintenance for both materials is the same with the exception of sealing granite.
Avoid using stone sealants available in “Big-Box” centers. These are produced for the general consumer and are void of the properties of their commercial brethren. There are a variety of sealers from many manufacturers and for specific purposes. The “All-Purpose” sealer is a compromise to cover all sorts of ‘sins’. Select a specific sealer for your stone – limestone, marble, granite, travertine, agglomerate, etc. NOTE: only Soapstone requires no sealing due to it’s metamorphic properties of high talc concentrations, used extensively in chemistry lab counters and ‘old’ chalk boards.
Seek a commercial-grade sealer for your particular stone-type and follow the directions, explicitly.