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5 Essential Tips for Stone Countertop Care

Stone counters are a valuable addition to your home’s beauty and worth. Taking good care of them is important to keeping them looking their best and functioning well. We will cover five tips for stone countertop care in the following article.

Atlanta Stone Creations countertop care

Choosing the Right Stone Material for Project

Different stone surfaces, including natural granite and marble and stones like quartz, are available. Designed granite is a type of hybrid material that combines the beauty of granite with enhanced durability due to its high-performance resin component. High-performance materials like designed granite are more durable, stain-resistant, and require less maintenance than traditional natural stones. They are perfect for high-traffic areas and offer a low-maintenance solution for families.

Beauty Tips of Lasting Results

Adding specific coatings to stone counters is essential for maintaining stone countertops. Two types of coatings are used: hydrophobic and oleophobic. Hydrophobic coatings are how stone counters can repel water. And oleophobic coatings are how a surface repels oils. 

By applying coatings made of polyurethane that can be cured by UV light and is fluorocarbon-based, a barrier repels water and oils, making cleaning easier and reducing the likelihood of staining. According to research by Xi & Yuan (2023), this type of coating is highly effective.

Sealing natural stone countertops can prevent stains and water damage. Depending on the surface’s usage and type of stone, sealing every 6 to 12 months can help maintain their pristine condition.

Effective Cleaning Tips for Stone Countertops

Here are tips for cleaning and maintaining your stone counters:
  • Wipe surfaces daily with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Avoid using acidic cleaners as they can damage stone surfaces.
  • If you have engineered stone surfaces, use proper quartz cleaners instead of regular cleaners.
  • It’s important to wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining, especially on porous stones like marble.
  • For tough stains, you can use a poultice paste. Apply it to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it for 24 to 48 hours before washing it off.

Essential Guidelines for Proper Installation, Safety, and Use

To ensure the durability of your stone counters, it is essential to have a professional install them correctly with adequate support to prevent cracking. Incorrect installation can lead to stress fractures and other damage over time.
 
Safety is also important and anyone working on cutting stone should wear protective gear, including masks and safety glasses, and ensure the work area is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of inhaling harmful dust. 
 
When using your stone countertops, it is important to avoid placing hot pans directly on them as it can cause cracking, especially in materials like granite. To prevent scratches, always use cutting boards and pot holders to protect your countertops from heat.

Final Thoughts

Stone countertop care is essential to preserving the beauty and durability of your stone counters. By choosing the right materials, applying protective coatings, conducting regular cleaning, following proper usage guidelines, and practicing safe installation practices, you can enjoy your investment for years to come. View more articles and FAQs on our Resources page.

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