Are Granite Worktops Hard to Look After
Free SampleGranite worktops are a beautiful option for your kitchen. The natural stone is durable, available in a range of colours, and simply stunning to look at. However, if you’re considering whether granite is the right material for your worktops, you might be unsure about caring for them. High-maintenance surfaces may not be your idea of a good choice, so understanding how to keep them clean and prevent damage is an important part of assessing whether they are right for you. As a hard wearing material that’s resistant to scratches and heat, granite is a magnificent choice for your kitchen, and doesn’t need too much care.
Seal Granite Worktops for Protection
Granite is a strong and durable material, but sealing your worktops can protect it further. Not all stone worktops require sealing, but granite can benefit from it if you want them to last longer. The sealant helps to make the granite more resistant to liquids. By preventing liquids from soaking into the stone, you can avoid stains and feel confident that you don’t have to worry about spills too much. The right sealant can last for many years, with some of them providing a warranty of ten years or more, but it’s important to reseal when necessary.
Clean Up Spills Right Away
Granite can be vulnerable to stains if you don’t clean up quickly, especially if it isn’t sealed properly. If you do spill anything, it’s important to wipe it up as soon as possible to reduce the risk of it leaving a stain or mark. Make sure you clean up after cooking to wipe up any messes, from food to oil. Be especially careful with anything that has a tendency to leave stains, such as red wine or beetroot.
Clean Gently
When you do clean your granite worktops, be careful about how you clean it and which products you use. Plain warm water or a pH neutral cleaner are the best choices if you want to avoid causing any damage, and they can also be better for the environment and the health of your home. It’s best not to use bleach, high-chlorine solutions or any other harsh cleaning agents. You should also be careful about the materials that you use to clean your surfaces. Avoid using anything abrasive, which could scratch the stone. If you clean regularly, you shouldn’t need anything too heavy.
Protect Surfaces from Scratches and Heat Damage
Granite is naturally durable and has excellent heat resistance, making it ideal for use in the kitchen. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s completely resistant to damage. You should avoid placing hot pots and pans straight on the surface, just as you would with any other worktops. Your granite worktops could still be damaged by high levels of heat applied directly to them. Don’t use the surface to chop on without a chopping board, either. While granite is tough, it’s safer and more hygienic to protect it with a board.
With a little care and attention, your granite worktops can last a long time. They require some looking after, but aren’t too difficult to care for.
