Every spring, as part of our annual household chores, we engage in various tasks such as preparing the gardens, decluttering, washing walls, and checking fire alarms. A valuable addition to the spring cleaning list is the care and maintenance of your stone countertops and natural stone areas. The specific type and quality of your stone will determine the appropriate care it requires. Let's explore the different types of stone and how to properly care for them each year, ensuring they retain their original beauty:
GRANITE: Granite, a natural stone renowned for its durability and timeless appeal, is an excellent choice for countertops. Due to its dense nature, staining is unlikely, but it's important to be aware that certain areas may be more porous than others. To protect against this, sealing those areas becomes essential. Sealants act as a barrier, preventing stains from penetrating the granite surface. A recommended practice is to reseal your granite countertops every 1-2 years, which can be done quickly in just 15 minutes. Follow these simple steps to reseal your granite:
Clean the countertop with a mild cleanser (avoid harsh abrasive agents as they can dull the finish).
Dry the countertop using a lint-free cloth.
Apply some sealant to a cloth and rub it onto the countertop, ensuring coverage around the edges and seams.
Allow the first coat to dry, then apply a second coat.
Let it sit for 24 hours.
A good springtime habit is to test the seal on your granite countertop by spraying water on the surface. If the water beads up, the seal is intact; otherwise, it's time to reseal. Remember to test different areas, as natural stone can vary in its properties.
QUARTZ: Quartz, an engineered stone, has gained popularity for its beautiful colours, durability, and low maintenance requirements. Quartz is resistant to stains and scratches and does not require resealing. However, immediate cleaning is recommended if any stains occur. Common stains can be removed with rubbing alcohol, or household bleach.
MARBLE: Marble is a stunning stone with deep-veined mineral deposits. While marble is visually appealing, it is highly porous and soft, making sealing a vital step. It's important to note that while sealing helps make the stone stain-resistant, it does not protect against etching or scratching. We recommend enlisting the services of a qualified professional to refinish your marble surface each year. Make sure to include this on your spring cleaning checklist.
Spring is a delightful season, representing renewal and fresh beginnings. Including the maintenance of your stone surfaces in your spring cleaning routine will help ensure that your stone countertops withstand the test of time, retaining their original lustre.
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