Granite Worktops: Natural Stone Sales LTD

Granite Worktops – Maintenance Tips and Tricks

Caring for Your Granite Worktops: Maintenance Tips and Tricks

Granite worktops are a stunning addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of natural beauty, resilience, and timeless appeal. While granite worktops are incredibly durable, they still require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking pristine for years to come. Whether you’ve recently installed granite worktops or are considering them for your home, this guide provides essential maintenance tips and tricks to help you protect your investment.

Why Proper Maintenance is Important

Although granite is a hardwearing natural stone, it is still porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and be susceptible to staining if not correctly sealed. Additionally, regular use can lead to minor scratches, dull spots, and general wear. Implementing a proper cleaning and maintenance routine ensures that your granite worktops maintain their luxurious appearance and durability for years to come.

Daily Cleaning Routine

Keeping your granite worktops clean on a daily basis is simple and effective. Here’s what you should do:

Use a soft cloth or sponge – Avoid abrasive materials like steel wool or rough scrubbing pads that can scratch the surface.
Mild detergent and warm water – Harsh chemical cleaners can break down the sealant over time. Instead, use a pH-balanced soap or a cleaner specifically designed for granite.
Wipe spills immediately – Granite is resistant to stains, but leaving acidic or oily spills for too long can cause discolouration.
Dry thoroughly – Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to prevent water spots or streaks.

Avoid using vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based cleaners as they can weaken the sealant and damage the surface over time.

Sealing Your Granite Worktops

Since granite is a naturally porous material, sealing it is crucial to prevent moisture and stains from penetrating the surface. Most granite worktops come pre-sealed when installed, but over time, the sealant can wear down.

How to Check if Your Granite Needs Sealing

A simple way to test whether your granite worktop requires resealing is the water droplet test:

Pour a few drops of water onto the surface.
If the water beads up, the sealant is still intact.
If the water absorbs into the stone within a few minutes, it’s time to reseal.

How Often Should You Seal Granite Worktops?

Light-coloured granite tends to be more porous and may need resealing once a year.
Darker granite is generally less porous and may only require sealing every two to three years.
High-use areas may need more frequent sealing to maintain protection.

How to Apply a Granite Sealant

Clean the surface thoroughly and let it dry completely.
Apply a high-quality granite sealant using a soft cloth or sponge.
Allow the sealant to absorb as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Wipe off excess sealant and allow it to cure before using the worktop.

Preventing Damage and Stains

While granite worktops are incredibly durable, taking preventative measures will keep them in pristine condition for longer.

Use chopping boards – Even though granite is scratch-resistant, cutting directly on the surface can dull knives and create minor scratches.
Use coasters and placemats – This helps prevent ring marks and stains from drinks, especially acidic beverages like wine, coffee, and citrus juices.
Avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface – While granite is heat-resistant, sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock, potentially leading to cracks.
Clean spills immediately – Acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, and tomato sauce can cause etching if left on the surface for too long.

Removing Stains from Granite Worktops

If a stain does occur, don’t panic! Here are some effective stain removal methods based on the type of stain:

Oil-Based Stains (Cooking Oils, Grease)

Create a paste using baking soda and water.
Apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and leave it overnight.
Wipe away with a damp cloth the next morning.

Water Stains (Hard Water Marks, Mineral Deposits)

Mix equal parts water and isopropyl alcohol.
Spray onto the stain, let sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a microfiber cloth.

Organic Stains (Coffee, Wine, Fruit Juice)

Create a paste using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.
Apply the paste and leave it for several hours before wiping clean.

Repairing Minor Scratches and Chips

Even with careful use, minor chips or scratches can occur. Here’s how to handle them:

For light scratches, apply a small amount of granite polish and buff with a soft cloth.
For deeper scratches or chips, use a granite repair kit, which typically includes an epoxy resin to fill and seal the damage.
For extensive damage, contact a professional to assess and restore your granite worktops.

Long-Term Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity of your granite worktops, follow these additional care tips:

Buff your worktops occasionally – This enhances the natural shine and smoothness of the surface.
Use granite-specific cleaners – These are designed to preserve the integrity of the stone without breaking down the sealant.
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight – In outdoor kitchens, UV rays can cause slight fading over time.

And Finally…

Proper maintenance of granite worktops ensures they remain beautiful, functional, and durable for many years. With regular cleaning, sealing, and mindful usage, your granite surfaces will continue to be a standout feature in your kitchen.

At Natural Stone Sales, we offer expert guidance on how to care for and maintain your granite worktops. If you need assistance with sealing, repairs or selecting the perfect worktop for your home, contact our team today and discover how granite worktops can enhance your kitchen’s elegance and practicality.