Introduction
Granite worktops have remained a popular accessory elements that perfectly reflects luxury, class and durability both in residential and commercial places. Well-known for their appeal and hard-wearing quality, granite worktops are a favourite in modern kitchen and bathroom designs together with terrace designs too. But to look as graceful as they appear and to have the strength that is necessary to be long-lasting, these tiles require special care and cleaning. Here I will try to cover all the important aspects related to granite worktops, its basic features on how it is strong and other important aspects as well as proper care about it.
Why Choose Granite Worktops?
Aesthetic Appeal
Another factor that makes most homeowners toShift left the granite worktops is the naked truth that they are unbeatable as far as beauty is concerned. Granite is a kind of natural stone which can be available in different colors, different patterns and different textures. Granite is known for its variation; that is why Granite countertop slabs are not similar in any two places. From rather muted shades in between blacks and whites and up to vivid contrasts and sharp geometric designs, granite provides an amazing choice no matter which direction you’re ready to take.
Durability
Granite is one of the hardest stones that can be used in households; therefore, the area with high traffic such as the kitchen. It is virtually scratch proof, heat resistant, and not easily worn out thus capable of enduring the normal abuses in a home. When well maintained, granite worktops are likely to outlast three decades so as to offer the best of appearance in addition to functionality.
Added Value to Property
The Granite countertops are regarded as luxury in homes. Granite has the potential of raising the price of a property as well as making it more attractive to the customers. This makes granite worktops to be perceived as a worthy investment given the fact that these worktops are likely to last for a very long time.
Durability of Granite Worktops
Scratch Resistance
Granite is the hardest material found in nature or any where. In the Mohs scale that used to measure mineral hardness granite range from 6 to 7 in hardness. This makes it one of the most scratch resistant surfaces in the market, it is much harder than marble or laminates for instance. But it is advisable to use a cutting board because knives when used directly on the granite surface they get blunt.
Durability of Granite Worktops.
Daily Cleaning
In order not to have the accumulation of dirt and other things on granite’s worktops, it is advisable to clean them often. One should rub the surface gently daily with mild dish soap and water. Chemicals that should not be used on the stone include bleach, ammonia, strong detergents, scouring pads, and any products containing acids since they reduce the sealer’s lifespan and will slowly eat through the surface of the stone.
For the granite also there are special cleaners which are effective in maintaining the shine of the stone. Finally wipe off the surface with a soft fabric in order to remove spots from water.
Stain Removal
For the difficult to remove stains, one can use, baking soda scrub with water or you can try any you prefer from the market granite cleaner. Rub the paste on the stain, leave it for some few minutes then wipe with a soft cloth. For oil-based stains one can use baking soda and water while for organic stains like coffee of wine one can as well use hydrogen peroxide based products. Another thing that you should always remember is that it is wise to first test any new cleaner in an area that it cannot easily be seen before applying it on the granite.
Avoiding Damage
Even though granite is highly durable, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid accidental damage:Even though granite is highly durable, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid accidental damage:
• Avoid acidic cleaners: It is also important to avoid exposure to vinegar, lemon juice and other acidic solutions since they can actually etch the surface and thus lead to the breakdown of the sealant.
• Be cautious with heavy objects: Such as when heavy items are dropped on to the granite or around the edges even if they are sharp they can chip or crack.
• Use cutting boards: A cutting board will also be useful in that it will ensure that the granite surface does not get scratched by the knives even though granite is hard and scratch resistant.
Long-Term Care Tips
Resealing Frequency
This is why most professionals advise people to reseal granite worktops anywhere from once to twice within two years at most, depending on how often the counter would be used and the kind of sealer put on the granite counter. Some high quality sealers can go up to about 5 years of the structure before it needs to be recoated while in other instances sealers may only last for less than a year. It is recommended to perform water test on worktop’s sealant in a regular basis for you to be able to tension of the required protection.
Polishing Granite
It is also recommendable to polish the granite to improve on the natural sheen of the stone and make it to appear new always. In addition, utilize a special polish, which is best suited for granite, to clean the surface periodically in a more rigorous way so this restores the shine of the stone. One should not use all those available polish products because they cause residues or even distort the surface of the stone.
Conclusion
Granite worktops are a perfect blend of both hard wearing, aesthetically pleasing and practical which makes them perfect for any kitchen or bathroom. If the granite worktops are sealed in the appropriate manner and proper cleaning practices followed the lifespan of the granite worktops can be measured in terms of years and decades. Patience and hard work that you put into the maintenance of these luxurious surfaces guarantee you the lasting beauty of these areas in your home. Whether you own a stone-made home and have always pondered on the durability of granite or thinking of installing granite in your home, the following article will be very helpful to you
