One of the best things about having natural stone elements in your home is that no two pieces look the same. Granite worktops are all unique, composed of a variety of different minerals that give them texture and sparkle. They bring the outside in and make your kitchen or bathroom warm and inviting. Granite worktops are an investment, but they can last a lifetime if you take proper care of them.
The maintenance isn’t extensive, but these few tricks will help you ensure your granite worktops are protected.
- Always wipe up spills ASAP
If anything gets split on your worktop, make sure you wipe it up straight away. Leaving pooled liquid on granite for a prolonged period could increase the risk of damaging the surface permanently. The most damaging substances include those that are high in acids, such as orange juice, lemon or lime juice, and tomato sauce. Anything with alcohol or strong chemicals, like perfume or aftershave, is also more likely to damage granite when left to sit. Choose granite worktops from granitetransformations.co.uk that are well-sealed to reduce your risk of damage.
- Clean it frequently
Try to clean your granite worktop frequently to ensure no debris or substances are resting on top that you may not see. Don’t use harsh cleaner on granite and instead wipe it gently using a mild soap mixed with some warm water. Bleach, ammonia, and even vinegar can cause damage to natural stone. If it’s not mild soap and water, don’t use it on granite, unless the product specifies that you can.
- Never use scrubs
Avoid using any scouring pads, wire brushes, or any cleaners that contain abrasive materials. While granite is extremely durable and dense, the silicon carbide that is in many scrubbing products could still damage it. If there is stuck on food, loosen it by leaving a warm cloth over the top of it until it becomes soft enough to wipe away.
- Use coasters and placemats
Prevent spills and drips at the source and use coasters and placemats any time you’re eating or drinking at your granite worktop. If you have a bar-style top that you frequently have wine or snacks at, make sure you have placemats or coasters on hand just in case. It’s especially important when you’re drinking anything high in acid, like red wine.
- Reseal your granite worktop
Your granite worktops should be sealed during installation. If it’s properly applied, then that seal can last up to 5 years. It will depend on how porous your granite is, what type of sealant was used, and how it was applied. Always use a professional when purchasing and installing worktops to make sure it’s done right the first time. That said, by resealing your worktop, you can help it resist spills and dirt, which can cause stains and etching. You should reseal your granite worktops once every 1 to 5 years. When your sealant is still in good shape, any spilled liquids should bead on the surface. If they do not, then it’s time to reseal it. Make sure the surface is spotless to avoid sealing any dirt into the worktop.
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