Spring Cleaning Your Granite

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A Tune- up for your natural stone countertop. Now that the season for Spring Cleaning has arrived, don’t forget to add to your checklist an examination of your stone surfaces. Here’s a DIY list of things to check for preventative maintenance care for your investment. Check seams and backsplashes: Any caulk around sinks, counter tops, and seams should be checked periodically for signs of deterioration. Examine the surface for water spots: A few types of granite may show some moisture absorption if exposed for a period of time. For example, a puddle of water left on the counter for 15 minutes may show a dark spot when the water is wiped away. When allowed to dry, however, this spot will usually disappear. Water spots must be removed before sealing. Check for oil or pigment stains: While granite is ordinarily considered to be stain-resistant, foreign pigments or oils can be absorbed into the surface. This could cause discoloration. The \r\n \r\nClick Here to find a proven sealers. \r\n \r\n ", "style=\"background: #FFFFCC;padding: 2px;font-size: 10px;\"");" onmouseout="GAL_hidepopup();">sealer does not prevent this discoloration, but it slows it down to allow more time for clean up. If the top is sealed after staining, however, any foreign substance will be sealed in. Check for chips and cracks: Carefully examine the edges and surface for chips and potential cracks that could lead to instability of the countertop. A small amount of repair now could save you from major repairs in the future. At first sign of damage of the surface, contact a natural stone restoration specialist. ** We generally recommend that a sealer is professionally applied by a natural stone specialist. Members of the \r\n \r\nThe NSRA are committed to providing dedication to quality, service and continue to lead the industry with unmatched standards. \r\n \r\nReceive free stone advice from the industries leading professionals. Talk one on one with natural stone care service providers and designers. \r\n \r\nClick on the link above to find out more.", "style=\"background: #FFFFCC;padding: 2px;font-size: 10px;\"");" onmouseout="GAL_hidepopup();">NSRA are fully qualified to determine the specific type and proper application of sealing and maintenance products. This will insure that the surface is protected and the correct impregnating sealer is applied. However, it is possible for a homeowner to apply a sealer. Preparing the granite for sealing: All that's required is a thorough cleaning with ph balanced stone cleaner such as \r\n \r\nClick link to buy Lustro Italiano", "style=\"background: #FFFFCC;padding: 2px;font-size: 10px;\"");" onmouseout="GAL_hidepopup();">Lustro Italiano. Most general purpose cleaners will etch or damage the stone or degrade the sealer, therefore removing protective properties and becoming susceptible to stains. If you decide to seal your countertop yourself, make sure you are using the correct impregnating sealer for the type of natural stone that is being sealed. Simply apply the sealer, allow time specified on application directions for the sealer to soak in and wipe it off with a soft cloth. Multiple coats of sealer maybe necessary to fully protect the surface.

 

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