Care and Maintenance
The following care and maintenance tips will help keep your new kitchen and/or bathroom looking radiant for many years.
- It is recommended that you do not use your newly installed countertops or vanities for 48 hours. That includes any work to be done to your cabinets or plumbing fixtures.The silicone adhesive needs to set and if disturbed may cause seams and backsplashes to shift.
- Granites are made up of many different types of natural stones that may vary in color and grain. They are porous and require sealants or waxes to maintain their beauty.
- Granite is resistant to stains. Generally, any liquid spilled on agranite top, if wiped up within a few minutes, will not stain. However if left for a long period of time, even water can soak into a granite countertop and leave a dark colored spot; but this usually will evaporate. Liquids that do not evaporate, such as oils, will cause stains if left to soak into the stone; however, if the source of the stain is known then it is very likely that the stain can be removed. Most stains can be removed by a professional stone restorer. Even oil stains can usually be removed using a poultice or paste that will draw out the oil from the stone.
- Granite is heat resistant and can withstand the heat of hot pots and pans without damage. Impact from a heavy object may scratch, chip or break granite. We recommend that you do not use your countertop as a cutting board or place hot skillets or roasting pans directly onto the surface. We suggest using cutting boards and trivets/hot pads at all times.
- Granite will become damaged from use of harsh chemicals. Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is all that is required. Avoid using bleach, abrasive cleaners, strong chemicals and solvents, permanent markers and inks and oil soap products. They will remove any waxes and sealants, create stains and will expose your stone to damages that may or may not be repaired by a professional.
- Some granite is more porous than others. However, all of our granite countertops are sealed upon installation. The rule of thumb is that when the water no longer beads up, it's time to re-seal. A re-application of a penetrating sealer should be performed either by the home owner or a professional, every year (longer or shorter depending on usage), which only takes about 15-30 minutes.