Stone surface maintenance
It’s no secret that stone countertops are beautiful, but they require a little maintenance to keep their beauty. If you’ve just installed your new granite or quartz countertops and are baffled by how little maintenance they require, you’re not alone! Many people think that because their countertops are made of stone, they can’t be damaged. But like wood and other natural materials, stone is sensitive to scratches, water damage and fading. Luckily for you, we’re here to help! We’ve put together a list of our favorite tips and tricks for maintaining your stone countertop, from keeping it clean to making sure it doesn’t chip or crack.
Granite care
Granite is one of the most beautiful materials used in home construction. It’s durable, attractive and can last for decades with little maintenance. But no matter how beautiful your granite countertops are, they’ll only be at their best if they’re properly maintained. It’s important to avoid using overly acidic or basic products on your granite. This includes products such as vinegar, lemon juice and dishwashing soap. Avoid using anything that might scratch the surface, such as steel wool or abrasive cleaners. If you spill food or drink on your counters, clean them up as soon as possible. If you want to keep your granite looking like new without having to do anything special for maintenance, use water and a soft cloth!
Quartz care
Quartz countertops are beautiful and durable, but they need a little love to keep them looking their best. Here’s how to clean your quartz countertops:
- Use a mild soap or detergent and a soft cloth for regular cleaning. Never use scouring powder, abrasive cleaners or strong acids on the surface of your quartz countertops.
- Although stain-resistant, quartz countertops are not stain-proof. Avoid exposing your countertop to products containing oil or grease (such as cooking oils), and avoid leaving glass or cup rings on the surface for long periods.
- You can use a glass or surface cleaner, such as Windex, for heavy or dried-out stains. Apply the cleaner directly to the stain with a clean cloth dampened with water, then wipe off excess liquid with another clean cloth dampened with water only (no soap). Allow the cleaned area to air-dry before placing anything else on it.
Quartzite care
Quartzite is a highly durable, heat- and scratch-resistant stone that has been used for centuries to create countertops, floors and walls. It is similar to granite, but with a rougher texture and lighter color. As with any surface you wish to protect, simple preventive measures are very useful for quartzite countertops. It’s exceptionally high on the Mohs hardness scale, so be sure to use a cutting board. Quartzite is a non-porous material, with no pores or cavities like other natural stones. This means there are no spaces where bacteria can hide and grow. So less risk of developing an odour problem!
Onyx care
If you have an onyx countertop, you probably know how beautiful it is, but you may need to learn how to preserve it. Onyx is a beautiful, durable stone, but it can be scratched or scuffed easily, making it susceptible to damage from daily use in the kitchen. That’s why we’re here to explain how to protect and maintain your countertops. Let’s start with maintenance. Sealing every 6 to 12 months will prevent scratches from becoming permanent marks on your countertop. Using commercial cleaners can damage your onyx countertop. Instead, choose a PH-neutral cleanser. Next: spills! Clean up spills as soon as they occur, rather than letting them stand – they’ll be easier to clean up before they have time to set into the stone. Protect them with cutting boards, trivets and coasters – even if they’re marketed for wood or plastic surfaces, they’re perfect for onyx! And last but not least, have them professionally polished once every two or three years: they’ll keep their optimal appearance and look as good as new! If you’re looking for stone countertops in Quebec, there’s no better choice than RocArtz. We have a wide selection and great deals, so you’re sure to find your ideal countertop. We also have stone experts to install and maintain your countertops. All you have to do is choose the ideal material for your home. We look forward to helping you realize your vision.