8 Tips to Get the Most of Your Granite Countertops

Most homeowners will agree that granite countertops are some of the best that you can get. Not only are they durable, but they are quite aesthetically appealing - making them both functional as well as beautiful. 

Investing in durable granite countertops does not mean that you can neglect to clean and maintain them. For this reason, below we offer some great tips to get the most out of your granite countertops:

 

1.   Avoid droping heavy items the granite countertops. Although this material is quite hard and sturdy, it is prone to chips and can even break if you are not careful. This is especially true if the countertops take a hit on one of their fissure lines. You should be careful when putting down heavy object on the countertops as well as when you are lifting them.

2.   Never stand or sit on granite countertops. Just as heavy object can break or chip them, placing too much weight on them at a time could also cause the countertops to break.

3.   Use cutting boards when cutting vegetable, fruits, met and so on. Most people are quite tempted to simply cut these items directly on the countertops. Remember that the countertops come with a sealer so as to protect the granite. Cutting directly on the granite will damage the sealer and possible crack the granite. In addition to this you will also ruin your kitchen knives.

4.   Never place hot pot or pans on top of granite. Although it is quite difficult to melt or burn the granite, the heat from the pots and pans will definitely ruin the sealer that the granite has been treated with. Place the hot pots and plans on a hot pad.

5.   Clean granite countertops on a daily basis. When using a granite countertop cleaner, use a soft cloth and some warm water or a mild granite cleaner. This will ensure that dirt and dust are kept at bay without interfering with the shine of the granite. If a spill occurs, ensure that it is cleaned up immediately so as to avoid any staining. If extreme staining does occur, you may need to invest in granite cleaning services.

6.   Buff granite countertops from time to time. It is good to take the time and buff granite countertops once in a while so as to get rid of any streaking that may have occurred over time. This can be easily done with an old terry cloth towel that is no longer in use.

7.   Polish the granite, there are stone polishes specifically for granite to ensure that they remain looking shiny and new plus help prevent any staining from occurring. This can also help to restore granite to look like new.

8.   Seal the granite occasionally. When you have the granite installed in your home, it will be sealed at the time of installation however, this granite sealer will disintegrate over time and would be as useful to the granite anymore. As such, you should seal the granite after every few years so as to increase its shelf life.

Due to how beautiful they are as well as durable, granite countertops are considered to be one of the best options one could make for their home. Using the best practices of granite countertops care and maintenance goes a long way to best ensure lasting allure and functionality.