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Expert Tips for Granite Countertop Cleaning and Maintenance

Granite countertops are a timeless addition to any kitchen or bathroom, offering both beauty and durability. However, to keep your granite surfaces looking their best for years to come, it’s essential to understand their unique characteristics and follow proper cleaning and maintenance practices. As seasoned stone restoration professionals, we’ve compiled essential insights and expert tips to help you care for your granite countertops effectively.

Understanding Your Granite Countertops:

 Granite comes in a variety of colors and finishes, each with its own maintenance requirements. Conducting simple tests can help you better understand your granite’s characteristics and maintenance needs. stained countertops

  1. Water Test: Place a few drops of water on your granite countertop and let them sit for about 15 minutes. If the area darkens when you wipe it up, it indicates that water has soaked into the stone, signaling the need for sealing. This test is important because if the water had been carrying something of color like wine and juices do, it could have stained your countertop. Protecting your granite from staining is much easier and much more cost-effective that trying to remove a stain. Some stains may not be able to be completely removed and may be permanent.
  2. Acid Test: Use caution with this test, preferably on a sample piece of stone. This test is to determine if you truly have granite. This is because many marbles are sold as granite because of their hardness. If you do not have a sample piece of stone, we recommend you test in an inconspicuous area. To perform this test, apply a few drops of lemon juice to the granite and let it sit for 15 minutes. If the area where the lemon juice was applied becomes duller than the surrounding area, it suggests the presence of calcite or dolomite which are minerals found in marble, travertine, limestone, and onyx not granite. Marble, travertine, limestone, and onyx are more prone to etching from acidic substances. To remove etch marks professional refinishing services are often needed.

leathered granite Granite Varieties and Maintenance Tips:

  • Black Granite: Some black granite countertops may be dyed to achieve a darker, more consistent color. When repairing or refinishing black granite, matching the dye can be challenging, leading to slight color discrepancies. Staining is less common with black granite, but if it occurs, it typically darkens the affected area.
  • Gold/Yellow/Tan Granites: These varieties contain natural fissures (which are small surface-level cracks that do not go all the way through the stone) and pits, which can trap water deposits and become challenging to clean. Over time, these countertops may develop pitting where minerals of the stone pop out, requiring professional attention for filling.
  • White Granites: White granites are porous and prone to staining, requiring sealing every year and diligent maintenance. Poulticing, a process of applying a paste to draw out stains, can be effective but may not remove all discoloration.
  • Textured Finishes: Luxurious finishes like leathered or hammered textures add visual interest but can trap hard water and debris. Regular professional cleaning and periodic tinting treatments can minimize the appearance of buildup in textured surfaces.

Maintaining Your Granite Countertops: hard water build up on granite

To preserve the beauty and longevity of your granite countertops, follow these maintenance tips:

  1. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining and hard water build-up.
  2. Limit the use of any cleaner that says “polish”, “seals” or “3 in one cleaner”. Regular use of these cleaners will create a build-up on your granite countertops dulling the shine over time.
  3. Use a stone-safe cleaner like Easy Oxy and a microfiber cloth for regular cleaning.
  4. Avoid using excessive dish soap, as it can leave residue on the surface.
  5. Refer to our Granite Countertop Care Guide to learn more about your granite countertop maintenance.
  6. Schedule professional granite polishing and sealing services every 3-5 years (annually for white granites) to rejuvenate and protect your countertops.

By understanding your granite countertops and implementing proper cleaning and maintenance routines, you can ensure they remain a stunning focal point in your home for years to come. For professional granite polishing, sealing, and maintenance services, trust the expertise of Beyond Clean Tile. Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment and keep your granite countertops looking as good as new.