Caring for your granite countertops in Westwood takes a small amount of diligence. The maintenance requirements aren’t extensive, but there are some steps you can take to ensure the longevity of your beautiful new granite countertops. Having a Framingham granite fabricator install them is the first step. They can give you maintenance tips as well, but in the meantime, check these out.

Tips

If you want to preserve the beauty and longevity of your granite counters, keep these tips in mind:

• Clean them regularly. Wipe down your granite countertops after each use with a cloth or sponge as well as a mild, neutral-pH cleaner. Stay away from abrasive cleaners or acid-based cleaners such as bleach and vinegar, which can damage the surface.
• Wipe up spills immediately. Because granite is porous, it can stain if spills are allowed to sit for too long. Blot any spills using a paper towel or cloth so absorption into the stone does not occur.
• Avoid heat damage. Granite can withstand some levels of heat, but it’s best not to chance it. Use trivets or pads when setting hot pans directly onto your countertops to prevent cracking.
• Seal it regularly. Depending on how much use it gets, apply a granite sealer to your counters every year or two to protect against stains. This also helps the surface look new year after year. You can test the seal by placing a drop of water on the surface to see if it beads up. If it does, the seal is OK. If it soaks into the counter, you should reseal.
• Use cutting boards and chopping blocks. When cutting food, use these items to prevent scratches.
• Clean your countertops. Clean your counters daily to preserve appeal. Regularly dust them using a dry, soft microfiber cloth to remove dirt and prevent scratching when cleaning.
• Regularly inspect your counters: Be on the lookout for cracks or chips and fix them before they get worse.  
• Use coasters under glasses: This will prevent moisture rings and sealant damage.
• Don’t sit or stand on your granite countertops: While strong, your counters can’t handle excessive weight and may develop cracks or other damage.
• Avoid DIY cleaners: You’re best off using products specifically designed for granite, as homemade mixtures may contain ingredients that could harm the sealant or even the granite itself.

Contact Granite Guy

Call us today at 508-460-7900 for a free consultation and estimate. Our Sherborn granite installers will be able to give you more tips after installation as to how to best care for your new granite countertops.