The Pros and Cons of Granite

Understanding Granite and how to care for it

Granite is a great choice for nearly any kitchen because the investment truly does add lasting value to your home. Granite, when installed and maintained properly, can last for virtually a lifetime. For anyone looking to sell a home, granite countertops are a definite perk for perspective homebuyers, often increasing the resale value of the home. And, of course, when you love your kitchen, and how you feel in it, you’ll spend more time in it throughout the day.

The Cons of granite

Granite has some disadvantages as well. granite is very porous surface. This means staining occurs much more easily on granite than countertops made of other materials. Granite also doesn’t take to granite cleaners well. Most granite cleaners are best left for granite countertops not used often, or granite countertops that are sealed, leaving no porous surface behind. Too much granite cleaner can wear away the granite finish that makes it shine and allows it to stand up to stains better. The fact of the matter is, even if granite is properly sealed granite countertops still aren’t granite cleaner friendly.


Granite countertops also require more maintenance than most other surfaces in the kitchen. When granite countertops are new, they will often need to be resealed periodically until that granite sealer becomes part of the granite and no longer needs to be added. That means granite countertops need to be resealed every few years. Granite sealers are not cheap, and granite can’t be resealed by just anyone with any granite cleaner or granite sealer they happen to have laying around the house.


The Pros of Granite

Granite continues to remain one of the most sought after countertop materials today because it is a luxurious, beautiful stone. Since granite has become more affordable in recent years and kitchens can now look as amazing on a modest budget with this versatile material, your kitchen will not be an identical replica like those found at cookie cutter homes around town--but rather have its own individual lines homeowners love.


Proper sealing makes all the difference when caring for these stones over time so that they maintain their stunning appearance even longer.  Granite still remains highly desired due largely from its richly elegant appeal.

How to take care of Granite

One of the easiest ways granite can be taken care of is by investing in granite cleaner rather than granite sealer. granite cleaner is easy to come by, but granite sealer needs to be bought from granite shops or other specialty stores. Granite countertops are usually cheaper than other options, so the extra cost of granite cleaner may not seem too bad when it comes time to reseal granite countertops every few years.


Contact us to take care of your natural stone

The bottom line with granite is that granite requires more upkeep and special cleaner than most other surfaces in the kitchen.  If you are interested in a professional cleaning, contact us today!  We are experts and know how to take care of your natural stone.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Cleaning Natural Stone

13 May, 2024
Natural stone surfaces, such as marble, granite, limestone, and travertine, add elegance and sophistication to any space. However, improper cleaning techniques can damage, dull, and deteriorate these beautiful surfaces. In this article, we'll highlight some of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning natural stone and provide tips on avoiding them, ensuring your stone surfaces retain their beauty and longevity. Using Acidic or Abrasive Cleaners One of the most significant mistakes people make when cleaning natural stone is using acidic or abrasive cleaners. Substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or ammonia-based cleaners can etch and damage the surface of certain types of stone, especially marble and limestone. Similarly, abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads can scratch and dull the surface, detracting from its natural beauty. Tip: Opt for pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone. These gentle cleansers effectively remove dirt and grime without harming the surface. Additionally, soft cloths or brushes are used to clean the stone to avoid scratching it. Neglecting to Seal the Stone Failure to seal natural stone surfaces leaves them vulnerable to stains, moisture penetration, and other forms of damage. Many people overlook the importance of sealing, assuming that the stone is naturally resistant to stains and spills. However, even the most durable stones benefit from regular sealing to maintain their protective barrier. Tip: Seal your natural stone surfaces regularly using a high-quality stone sealer recommended by professionals. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and reapplication intervals to ensure maximum protection against stains and moisture. Using Excessive Water Excess water during cleaning can seep into natural stone pores, causing discoloration, staining, and even structural damage over time. Some homeowners mistakenly believe that soaking the stone with water will help loosen dirt and grime, which can lead to undesirable consequences. Tip: Use minimal water when cleaning natural stone surfaces. Dampen a soft cloth or mop with water and a mild stone cleaner, then gently wipe the surface to remove dirt and stains. Immediately dry the surface with a clean cloth to prevent water from penetrating the stone. Ignoring Regular Maintenance Neglecting regular maintenance of natural stone surfaces can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains, detracting from their appearance and longevity. Many people wait until their stone surfaces are visibly dirty or damaged before taking action, exacerbating cleaning challenges and leading to more extensive restoration efforts. Tip: Establish a regular cleaning and maintenance routine for natural stone surfaces. Sweep or dust the surfaces daily to remove debris and prevent scratches. Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining, and clean the surfaces weekly or as needed using gentle cleaning solutions and techniques. Using Improper Cleaning Tools Using inappropriate cleaning tools, such as harsh brushes, scouring pads, or abrasive cleaning agents, can cause irreparable damage to natural stone surfaces. Rough materials can scratch, etch, or dull the surface, compromising its integrity and appearance. Tip: Choose cleaning tools specifically designed for natural stone, such as soft-bristled brushes, microfiber cloths, or natural sponge pads. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch or damage the surface, and always test new cleaning products or tools in an inconspicuous area before using them on the entire surface. Conclusion Cleaning natural stone surfaces requires care, attention to detail, and appropriate cleaning techniques and products. By avoiding common mistakes such as using acidic cleaners, neglecting to seal the stone, using excessive water, ignoring regular maintenance, and using improper cleaning tools, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your stone surfaces for years to come. Follow the tips outlined in this article to ensure that your natural stone surfaces remain pristine, elegant, and inviting for generations to enjoy.

DIY vs. Professional Stone Cleaning: When to Call the Experts

08 Apr, 2024
Maintaining the beauty and longevity of natural stone surfaces requires regular cleaning and care. While some cleaning tasks can be tackled with DIY methods, others may necessitate the expertise of professional cleaners. In this article, we'll explore the factors to consider when deciding between DIY stone cleaning and hiring professionals, helping readers understand when to roll up their sleeves and when to call in the experts. DIY Stone Cleaning: Pros and Cons Many homeowners opt for the DIY route when cleaning their natural stone surfaces. DIY cleaning methods offer several advantages, including convenience, cost savings, and the satisfaction of completing a task independently. Common DIY stone cleaning techniques include using mild detergents, vinegar solutions, specialized stone cleaners, and gentle scrubbing and wiping with soft cloths. However, DIY stone cleaning also has its limitations. Without proper knowledge and experience, homeowners risk using incorrect cleaning products or techniques that could damage the stone surface. Additionally, stubborn stains or deep-seated grime may be challenging to remove with DIY methods, requiring professional intervention. When to DIY Stone Cleaning: Routine Maintenance: Regular dusting, sweeping, and mopping can be easily accomplished by homeowners to keep natural stone surfaces clean on a day-to-day basis. Mild Stains: Light surface stains, such as water spots or fingerprints, can often be removed using DIY cleaning solutions and gentle scrubbing. Small Areas: DIY cleaning can be a practical and cost-effective solution for small or manageable areas of natural stone. Professional Stone Cleaning: Advantages and Considerations Professional stone cleaning services offer specialized expertise, advanced equipment, and tailored solutions for restoring and maintaining natural stone surfaces. Trained professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the type of stone, identify specific cleaning requirements, and select the appropriate products and techniques to achieve optimal results safely. Some of the key advantages of hiring professionals for stone cleaning include: Expertise: Professionals are equipped with specialized training and experience in handling various types of natural stone, ensuring thorough and effective cleaning without causing damage. Advanced Equipment: Professional cleaners utilize state-of-the-art equipment and tools, such as high-pressure steam cleaners, rotary scrubbers, and specialized cleaning solutions, to achieve superior results. Deep Cleaning: Professional cleaning services can penetrate deep into the pores of natural stone, removing embedded dirt, stains, and contaminants that DIY methods may not adequately address. Time and Convenience: Outsourcing stone cleaning to professionals saves homeowners time and effort, allowing them to focus on other priorities while ensuring the job is done efficiently and effectively. When to Call the Experts: Stubborn Stains: Deep-seated stains or discoloration that resist DIY cleaning efforts may require professional expertise to safely and effectively remove. Large Areas or Complex Surfaces: Cleaning extensive or intricate natural stone surfaces, such as flooring, countertops, or facades, is best left to professionals with the necessary equipment and skills to tackle the job effectively. Specialized Treatments: Certain types of natural stone, such as marble or travertine, may require specialized cleaning and sealing treatments that professionals best handle to ensure optimal results and long-term protection. Conclusion Determining whether to tackle natural stone cleaning as a DIY project or enlist the help of professionals depends on various factors, including the type and extent of cleaning required, the size and complexity of the surfaces involved, and the homeowner's comfort level and expertise. While DIY methods may suffice for routine maintenance and minor cleaning tasks, professional stone cleaning services best address complex or challenging cleaning issues. By understanding the advantages and limitations of both DIY and professional stone cleaning, homeowners can make informed decisions to preserve the beauty and integrity of their natural stone surfaces for years to come.
Share by: