Useful Tips for Cleaning Granite Countertops

Granite countertops can be expensive, but they are also beautiful and durable and can last a lifetime, so cleaning granite countertops correctly can help to maintain their beauty and durability. When buying your countertop you should also be supplied with information and/or products for the correct maintenance and cleaning. Annually, you should use a sealant that will penetrate the granite; this should have been recommended or supplied by the company that you purchased the product from. You should never use a sealer which does not actually penetrate the granite and only makes the surface appear to be cloudy, remember the shine is not caused by making the surface lustrous, but it is actually caused by the effectively polishing the stone.

Granite is one of the hardest and most durable of stone surfaces, formed from molten rock, but it does not make it invincible, it is still susceptible to chips and scratches and the surface can be marked. Black marks and small scratches can be removed by the homeowner by gently using very fine steel type wool, but if there are any deep scratches or chips your surface should be professionally repaired. Some of the minerals in the granite may be quite soft which makes it more vulnerable to damage. This depends on the country of origin, even the granite from a particular quarry will vary in color, pattern and durability. The best advice for cleaning granite countertops is to never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface. The safest way is to use a solution of warm water and washing up liquid, this should clean gently and avoid streaking of the top.

There are some general rules which you can follow to help maintain the beauty and longevity of your granite countertop. Never, ever use the surface directly for cutting; always use a chopping board as knives can cause deep scratches in the surface of your countertop. Also be very careful not to leave foodstuffs with a high acidity level on the surface for any length of time, this especially includes vinegar, soft drinks and lemon juice. These can penetrate the surface and cause stains and marks. It is also recommended that you do not drag pots or pans across the surface of the stone, as this can also cause damage.

Of course, not all homeowners can afford top pay top granite countertop prices but don’t be put off; there are plenty of discount granite countertops available. Many suppliers have three of four different levels of prices, called tiers. In the top tier you will usually pay the premium price, this often depends on color, patterning, country of origin and whatever is fashionable at the time, but often the cheap granite countertops in the lower tiers are just as durable and often just as beautiful. It really is a question of choice, and it is definitely worth shopping around to see what offers are available. Some homeowners find it economical to buy a thinner cut stone, which is often laminated on plywood for added strength and polished at the quarry. Normally the granite is cut at around three centimetres, but thinner cut stone of around 2 centimetres is more economical and can be just as effective when fitted correctly.

Granite is a gorgeous stone and adds a splash of colour and style to any kitchen. With the massive variety in granite countertops price and the increased number of cheap granite countertops on the market, they are much more affordable for most homeowners. With clever design and careful planning, homeowners can enjoy the benefits without the traditional large expense for many, many years, and they have proved to be a very wise investment for many homeowners, and cleaning granite countertops carefully also helps to maintain the beauty and longevity.