One of the most beautiful upgrades one can make to their kitchen is the addition of Houston granite countertops. These stone surfaces retain their good looks for many years, if they receive proper care. While all stone surfaces have some similarities, they also have some important differences that affect the type of care they need. Using proper techniques for cleaning and maintenance can ensure many years of beauty.
One of the most important habits to develop is to blot up any spills immediately. While this material is not easily etched by acidic foods like fruit juice, coffee, wine, soda or tomato sauce, the substances can cause stains. In addition, cooking oils can also leave stains unless they are wiped up quickly.
A clean sponge or soft cloth is ideal for keeping surfaces clean. Buy and use a good quality cleaner for designed for the particular top in order to keep it in good condition and protect the sealant. Hot water will work for a quick wipe down. Avoid the repeated use of dish soap as it tends to build up and dull the shine, even when the surface is rinsed after use.
Use coasters to protect the surface from stains from bottles, glasses and cans. Even though they are not likely to cause a problem with this stone, it is a good practice. Protect the tops in the kitchen and the family is more likely to protect other surfaces in the home.
Always use hot pads or trivets under pans that come off the stove. Even though most of the time sitting a hot pan directly onto the surface will not cause a problem, thermal shock can occur causing the stone to crack. A hot pad also protects the surface from scratches that occur due to grit being trapped under the heavy pot. Remember that stone will absorb heat from pots set directly onto the surface and may become hot enough that they cause burns.
Cutting boards can also protect the top from the scratches caused by knives. The stone surface is not good for the edge of the knife and can cause dulling. Invest in a good wood or plastic cutting board to protect them as well as the family.
Avoid use of most household cleaners on these surfaces. This includes bleach, degreasers, glass cleaners, lemon juice, ammonia and vinegar. The acids and alkalis in theses cleaners can degrade the sealer and make the stone more vulnerable to stains. Also avoid use of bathroom, grout or tub and tile cleaners. The soft abrasives in such cleaners can dull and scratch surfaces.
Never sit or stand on the counter. Laminates are more flexible and have the support of plywood underneath. Stone is applied without any backing board and is not flexible. Placing too much weight in a single spot causing cracks.
Houston granite countertops offer a great look in the home. Properly maintained, they can keep their good looks for many years. To protect the stone, avoid scratches, thermal shock and anything else that could cause cracking or breaking.
One of the most important habits to develop is to blot up any spills immediately. While this material is not easily etched by acidic foods like fruit juice, coffee, wine, soda or tomato sauce, the substances can cause stains. In addition, cooking oils can also leave stains unless they are wiped up quickly.
A clean sponge or soft cloth is ideal for keeping surfaces clean. Buy and use a good quality cleaner for designed for the particular top in order to keep it in good condition and protect the sealant. Hot water will work for a quick wipe down. Avoid the repeated use of dish soap as it tends to build up and dull the shine, even when the surface is rinsed after use.
Use coasters to protect the surface from stains from bottles, glasses and cans. Even though they are not likely to cause a problem with this stone, it is a good practice. Protect the tops in the kitchen and the family is more likely to protect other surfaces in the home.
Always use hot pads or trivets under pans that come off the stove. Even though most of the time sitting a hot pan directly onto the surface will not cause a problem, thermal shock can occur causing the stone to crack. A hot pad also protects the surface from scratches that occur due to grit being trapped under the heavy pot. Remember that stone will absorb heat from pots set directly onto the surface and may become hot enough that they cause burns.
Cutting boards can also protect the top from the scratches caused by knives. The stone surface is not good for the edge of the knife and can cause dulling. Invest in a good wood or plastic cutting board to protect them as well as the family.
Avoid use of most household cleaners on these surfaces. This includes bleach, degreasers, glass cleaners, lemon juice, ammonia and vinegar. The acids and alkalis in theses cleaners can degrade the sealer and make the stone more vulnerable to stains. Also avoid use of bathroom, grout or tub and tile cleaners. The soft abrasives in such cleaners can dull and scratch surfaces.
Never sit or stand on the counter. Laminates are more flexible and have the support of plywood underneath. Stone is applied without any backing board and is not flexible. Placing too much weight in a single spot causing cracks.
Houston granite countertops offer a great look in the home. Properly maintained, they can keep their good looks for many years. To protect the stone, avoid scratches, thermal shock and anything else that could cause cracking or breaking.
About the Author:
Read more about Tips For Maintaining Houston Granite Countertops visiting our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment