Your Most Commonly Asked Questions About Granite Countertops, Answered
Granite is one of the most stunning and beautiful countertop materials available on the market today. Its durability, natural beauty and longevity is famous among homeowners. However, there are many things that remain unknown about granite. In this article, we’ll answer your top 10 most common questions about granite.
Can I Cut On Granite Countertops?
Yes, technically, you can use your granite counters like a cutting board. Knives will not scratch your granite countertops. However, some acidic foods, like oranges and lemons, can etch your countertops. Etching can lead to liquid absorption and staining. You can prevent this from happening by using cutting boards when chopping food.
Does Granite Stain?
Granite is porous. If it is not properly sealed, it may stain. You can prevent stains by keeping your granite countertops properly sealed and by wiping up spills when they happen.
Can Granite Countertops Be Damaged?
Though granite is very hard and resistant to damage, it is not indestructible. Granite can be stained, especially by liquids like red wine and cooking oil. Keep your granite countertops properly sealed and wiped down to prevent stains.
To tell whether granite is well sealed, leave a spill of water on your granite for an hour. If the granite develops a wet spot that will not wipe away, this means your granite is absorbing water and needs to be properly sealed. The wet spot will go away as the water in the stone evaporates.
What Is The Best Way To Clean Granite Countertops?
Wipe your counters with a damp cloth. Clean your granite at least once daily with a soapy dish rag. To disinfect your granite, spray it with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Allow the alcohol to sit on the counters, then wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth
Does Granite Harbor Bacteria?
If your granite is properly sealed, it should not absorb bacteria and germs. However, it’s important to keep your granite clean to protect yourself from food-borne illnesses. Disinfect your counters regularly, and wipe them down with soapy water after every use
Why Should I Choose Granite Over Other Materials?
Granite has been the choice of homeowners everywhere for decades, because of its natural beauty and durability. Granite can last for decades. In fact, your granite countertops will probably outlast most of the other fixtures in your home, if you decide to keep your counters that long.
Many homeowners are attracted to granite because it comes from nature and is quarried from the earth. If buying eco-friendly granite is important to you, work with your contractor to purchase granite from a local quarry. Granite from local sources is more eco-friendly because it requires less fuel for transportation
How Much Maintenance Does Granite Require?
Granite needs to be resealed occasionally, when the old sealer wears off. Granite also needs to be cleaned daily to keep off bacteria. Unless the granite becomes damaged, this is the only maintenance your granite should need
Can Granite Be Repaired?
Granite that becomes chipped and cracked can be repaired. Products like epoxies and resins can fill the spaces in your granite. Contact your granite contractor either for repair or to purchase a DIY kit
Does Granite Need To Be Resealed Regularly?
Yes, granite needs to be resealed every 1 to 5 years, depending on how much you use your counters, where the counters are located in your home and what kind of sealant you use on your counters
Can I Put Hot Pans on Granite?
We don’t recommend that you put hot pans on granite. Heat from pans can damage the seal on your stone, which could in turn lead to stains, water absorption and even cracking. Though granite can survive brief exposure to heat, you should still use a hot pad.
Are you ready to purchase granite for your countertops? Contact Seacoast Stone to view our natural stone countertops and make your purchase today.