Granite is a strong, beautiful stone created from volcanic magma. Granite is known to be an excellent building stone. It ranges in color, and provides a beautiful organic surface especially practical for kitchen counter tops.
Granite counter tops are a gorgeous addition to any home. Each piece is a natural work of art and is as unique as our fingertips. Because granite is available in so many colors, homeowners have many options to choose from. Granite is also very durable and resists heat. This makes it great for kneading dough, making roll-out cookies, and other tasks that need a cool counter top for best results.
Your granite counter top requires regular maintenance. Besides just cleaning, you’ll need to make sure the granite is sealed periodically. Stains can be difficult to remove, but not impossible. Counter tops may also be susceptible to cracking.
To keep granite counter tops clean, use a micro-fiber cloth to dust off the surface. Wipe down the granite counter top daily and as needed using water. Once a week wipe down with a damp cloth and a stone cleaner formulated with a neutral pH. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. I know it is tempting, but NEVER EVER use Windex on granite counter tops! They can scratch, pit, and etch the surface of the stone.
For oily stains, try a homemade paste of a cup of flour or baking soda and 5 tablespoons of dish soap. Add water to make it the consistency of sour cream or yogurt. Place the solution directly on the stain and cover with plastic wrap overnight, before washing away the paste.
Sealing is a regular maintenance task for granite. Re-seal the counter top when water splashed on the surface no longer beads up. It’s important to examine your granite at least once a year. Inspect areas to make sure there is no cracking or shifting at the seams. Inspect for stains and scratches as well. If there are stains or damage, contact a stone-care professional for repair.
5 Comments
Susie,
These countertops are absolutely beautiful! I’m curious how much maintenance, time-wise, they take? Do you have them in your kitchen?
Hey Alana, Yes they are so beautiful, I hope you get your kitchen redo also. Granite is more expensive, but if you care for it properly it will last a lifetime.
Hey Cher, Thank you! I have not seen pink???? I bet that is really pretty.
Granite counter tops are popular in New York State – I know several people who have gotten them and are happy. They are work to maintain but, as you say, they are beautiful.I’m still using counter tops that were in my house when I bought it over 25 years ago and I have a feeling a kitchen redo will be a continuing dream of mine.
Hi Susie, great post, I love Granite, we have a lot of pink granite here in France 🙂