Granite is a commonly used stone found in upscale residences, hotels and condominiums. It boasts of beauty, durability and easy maintenance. While it is known that diamonds are the hardest stone in the world, granite falls a close second due to very dense grain and it is stain-proof. This is the reason why it is also used as kitchen countertops. Granite can withstand a lot of pressure from chopping, cutting, and even hot pans won’t damage the granite’s finish. The texture being smooth also prevents bacteria from breeding; granite worktops are easy to clean.

How Granite Is Formed

Granite is considered to be an igneous rock. This means it is formed when the lava underneath the earth is cooled and crystallised. It consists of different minerals to give granite a unique appearance.

-Quartz

-Feldspar

-Mica

-Plagioclase feldspar

Care and Maintenance

When buying a granite top, ask if they seal the surface to provide protective coating-this also decreases the porosity of the stone. Use a mild soap or mild detergent to clean the top. Rinse it with water and dry using a soft cloth.
You may have the option of contacting professional cleaners to provide a long lasting smooth finish of granite worktops. It usually consists of waterproofing oil and cleaning wax. Do check if they sell care kit and if it’s easy to perform.

Avoid using bleach. Never use cleaners based on alkaline and chlorine. Never use abrasive cleaners like scouring pads as this can damage the granite’s finish over time.Acidic stuff can leave marks on the stone so the spill should be wiped immediately. Examples of these are vinegar, wine, citrus-based liquid. Even coloured food can cause stain-like curry, beetroot and blackcurrant among others.Though proven to be durable, take caution when knives are in direct contact with granite. It’s still best to use a chopping board.

Do not abuse the granite’s toughness by placing hot pans on it. Use a trivet from time to time. Exposure to heat for a long time can damage the granite shine and appearance. Always dry the granite top with soft cloth. Even water can cause marks due to chlorine content. Every 2 years, ask a professional to reseal granite countertops. Never attempt to remedy scratches and stains on your granite. It is best to call a professional to avoid further damage.

Granite is undoubtedly a good investment for a kitchen because of its beauty, unique appearance and durability. It is easy to care for and can last for a long time therefore, saving you money. Granite stone adds personality to any home. Since it is a dense material, it is highly resistant from stains and cracks especially if it has been sealed. Aside from practical reasons, granite adds a touch of elegance to any space. Some may find granite expensive, an option is to use granite tiles which are weaker that a whole slab but it gives the same look.

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Category: Home Management
Keywords: granite, granite worktops