How to Care for Granite Countertops

Granite countertops, known for their endurance and one-of-a-kind designs, are very popular in kitchens. One concern that some homeowners have is how to care for granite countertops. While made from a durable hard stone, these countertops still need to be cared for properly to protect your investment. This includes regularly wiping them down with water and sealing the countertops as needed, typically done once a year.

Granite Can Handle Some Heat from Pots and Pans

Granite is formed from the cooling and solidifying of lava, making it better able to handle higher temperatures when compared to other countertop choices. While you will not want to leave hot pots and pans on your granite countertop for an extended period of time, it is most likely that placing something hot on the countertop will not damage the granite. Granite countertops will not show burn marks or discoloration from the placement of hot pans like laminate and quartz. However, continuous exposure to high levels of heat can weaken the seal on the granite. This can leave you vulnerable to staining and other damage.

Regular Cleaning and Sealing Granite Countertops

When cleaning granite countertops, you should avoid any abrasive chemicals and cleaners. Harsh cleaners can scratch the granite or cause pits to form on the surface of the stone. As with any kitchen countertop, you should regularly wipe down the surface. For granite countertops it is best to use a microfiber cloth. For most cleaning, a dry cloth will be enough to wipe down the surface. If there is a spill, simply wet the cloth with water. Once a week you should use a stone cleaner that is designed specifically for granite to wipe down the countertops. If the spill is of an oily consistency, you can make a mixture of flour, baking soda and dish soap to remove the oil.

Sealing your granite countertop is an important step to protecting your investment. Typically, this only needs to be done once each year. You can see if it is need by splashing water on the countertops surface. Wait fifteen minutes. If the water has seeped into the granite as opposed to beading on the surface, sealing is necessary. Granite is a relatively low-maintenance countertop, particularly when you consider the beauty and unique design that this can offer a kitchen. By taking care to keep it sealed, you will be able to make sure that your countertops last a long time.

For a proper cleaning and sealing of your granite countertops, submit a form online or call us at (314) 227-3932. Our highly trained professional are here to help!

About Woodard Cleaning & Restoration

Woodard Cleaning & Restoration was founded in 1946 by Earl and Nancy Woodard. Located in St. Louis, Missouri, Woodard services the greater metro area (Illinois, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, St. Louis County, and many more). Woodard is proud to serve as the preferred provider for cleaning & restoration services. Our cleaning services include carpet, hard surface, furniture, and rug cleaning for both residential and commercial properties. We also provide water, fire, board-up, storm and smoke restoration services for residential and commercial clients. For information or questions submit a form online or call us at (314) 227-3932.

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Updated 4/22/2021