With proper care and cleaning, granite countertops will be beautiful for decades. If you have just moved into a home that has granite countertops, you should schedule a professional sealing and granite cleaning near Seattle. Though granite is generally easy to care for, there are a few things you should keep in mind when you are cleaning your countertops. The guide below will help you maintain your granite so that it looks its best for years to come.
Make Sure the Countertops Are Sealed
Though granite is more durable than stones such as marble, it still needs to be sealed to protect it from staining. Otherwise, oil, water, and other liquids can soak into its porous surface. Have professionals apply granite sealer in several coats to your countertop.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners
Though it may be tempting to polish your granite countertops to a high sparkle with abrasive sponges or powdered cleaners, avoid using these products at all costs. The harsher the cleaner, the quicker the granite sealant will break down and the sooner you will need stone restoration service. Also, do not use ammonia or bleach to disinfect, as these can also damage the sealant.
Clean After Each Use
To keep your granite countertops clean, simply wipe them with soap and dishwater after every use. This should be enough to remove most food residue and to disinfect. If you want stronger disinfectant, wipe the counters down with a 50/50 rubbing alcohol and water solution to avoid damaging the sealant. You can also buy products specifically designed for granite cleaning.
Re-Seal Every Few Years
Depending on the specific sealant you used, you will need to reapply it once every one to three years. To determine if your countertops are still sealed, use a turkey baster to dribble a few drops of water on the granite surface. If they are absorbed, it’s time to re-seal. A granite sealer installer in Seattle can make your granite countertops moisture repellent and stain resistant in no time.