Granite Countertop Maintenance Guide

Granite is a siliceous, low-absorption, and dense stone. Countertops made from it are generally easy to maintain. In this guide, we offer tips to help keep your granite countertop in excellent condition.

Properly Identify Your Countertop Material

Before maintaining your granite countertop, it’s crucial to ensure that the material is indeed granite. This is important because products that are safe for granite may damage other types of stone. The point is even more relevant considering that certain stone designs and finishes sold as granite may only mimic its appearance.

Products and Techniques for Maintaining Granite Countertops

Sealant: An Effective Way to Protect Granite

To prevent stains or dullness over time, be sure to apply a high-quality sealant to your granite countertop before using it. A low-quality sealant could damage your luxurious granite surface. Sealants vary depending on the granite’s finish (polished, matte, honed, brushed, etc.). However, because of granite’s porosity, sealant is always necessary. Except for matte-finish granite countertops, which should be sealed every six months, most granite countertops need resealing once a year.

How to Apply the Sealant?

First, ensure the countertop surface is completely dry. Then, using a spray bottle, cloth, or roller (depending on the type of sealant), apply the first coat evenly across the entire surface. Wait a few hours, then apply a second coat. Wipe off any excess sealant. Finally, avoid using the countertop for at least 48 hours. For best results, follow the instructions on the sealant’s label.

How to Keep Your Granite Countertop in Good Condition?

What You Should Do

• Reseal your countertop on time. If it starts to stain easily, that’s a sign it needs resealing.
• When using commercial cleaners or homemade mixtures, make sure they’re specifically designed for granite and don’t contain acidic or abrasive liquids or powders. For polished granite, pH-neutral cleaners are strongly recommended to maintain shine. For other finishes, use mild liquid soap and water.
• Use a dry cloth to remove dust or sand from the surface.
• To remove embedded stains, be patient. These stains often consist of residue trapped between granite crystals after a liquid evaporates. Simply re-liquefy them with hot water and wipe away with a sponge, cloth, or soft rag.
• If you’re unsure how to deal with a stain, don’t hesitate to contact a supplier that sells granite-safe commercial cleaners.

What You Should Avoid

To avoid damaging your granite countertop, do not expose it to vinegar or lemon. These acidic substances can degrade granite surfaces. Also, steer clear of abrasive products or those containing oil or ammonia. Finally, never let liquids dry on the countertop. Even sealed, granite is still porous. As liquids dry, they can leave residues in the pores, causing unsightly stains—or worse, damaging the granite itself.