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Are you thinking about having your kitchen or bathroom remodeled? Now you are starting to think about which countertop material to select. If you talk with your local home remodeling contractor, they will help you while you are making your selection. They can walk you through the many choices, pros, and cons.
After all the discussions and research is done, you decide to select a natural stone of granite. It is your favorite choice that you want to be installed in your kitchen or bathroom remodel. Now, you start thinking about how am I going to take care of it. What steps do I need to take to keep the beauty and longevity? How do I keep it looking brand new and in good shape?
Granite starting becoming one of the most popular countertops in homes since the 2000s. It requires some steps to take to care and clean this beautiful stone material.
Is your countertop sealed?
The first step is to make sure your countertop is sealed correctly. Granite countertops are made of natural stone. Each slap is unique and is relatively non-porous. Before shipping, many manufacturers seal the slab. You still need to reapply the sealant periodically.
Water Bead Test
Not sure if your countertop needs sealing? Perform a simple water bead test.
- Drop a few drops of water on your countertop.
- If it beads up, your countertop does not need to be sealed.
- If the water leaves a watermark or absorbs into your stone, you need to seal your counter.
Sealants
On the market today, there is a variety of types and brands of sealants. You can use a spray on a sealer like Granite Gold Sealer or Stone Care International Spray-n-Seal. They are easy to apply.
Stains
If you have a stain on your granite, you can remove the stain by making apaste of baking soda and water. With a soft cloth gently scrub the spot with the paste. Rinse thoroughly. If it a tough stain, you may have to repeat those steps several times to get the stain out?
If you have an extremely tough stain, put the paste on the spot and cover it with plastic wrap and tape down the edges. Let itsit until the paste dries. This could take a couple of days. When the paste is dry, wipe away the paste with a soft cloth. Rinse with warm water.
If you don’t remove the stain with that method, then use cornstarch. Put the cornstarch directly on top of the stain and cover it with plastic. Then, wipe it away with a soft cloth and rinse with warm water.
Clean
One of the pros of using granite is that you don’t need specialty cleaners. A specialty cleaner is fine to use, but you’re paying for a product you don’t necessarily need.
Just wipe your granite counter with warm soapy water and rinse. You can also use a 50:50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. Do not use vinegar, Windex, or bleach on granite. They will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. It is not recommended to use abrasive pads or cleaners, because the granite can be scratched.
Buff
To make your granite shine, put some cooking oil on a soft cloth, and wipe the countertop. You can use a microfiber cloth. Then, buff itgently.
Resealing
Everyday wear and tear will eventually wear the sealant off, leaving your granite counter dull and susceptible to stains. Having a professional reseal your granite counters is recommended.
Give Georgia Home Remodeling a call at 678-635-5429 to discuss your kitchen or bathroom remodeling today!
We specialize in remodeling homes in Georgia. Contact us to schedule your consultation and estimate. Or, you can call us at 678-635-5429 or email.
About Georgia Home Remodeling
Georgia Home Remodeling is a Gwinnett-based remodeling and renovation contractor company that has been serving Metro Atlanta and North Georgia since 1991. Originally created by company founder and president Chris Allen as a small painting company, GHR has since grown into a full-service custom remodeling and home renovation provider.
Georgia Home Remodeling is dedicated to providing great service and quality work at a fair price. From the initial contact until the job’s completion, we will be prompt, courteous and communicative, and will always do exactly what we promise to do at the price we quoted.
We are fully licensed and insured home renovation contractor, and our diverse and experienced crews include carpenters, painters, electricians, plumbers, flooring specialist, and HVAC professionals. Company president Chris Allen, who oversees and manages each GHR job, is also a Certified Graduate Builder, Certified Lead Carpenter and Certified Remodeler.
Contact us via email or call today 678-635-5429 to request a quote and let us help you make your dreams for your home a reality!