Sigma Marble and Granite, Inc.

GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

Granite is a natural product that has many varying characteristics according to its color and finish. The following instructions are general and are meant to help understand the nature of this product in order to maintain it properly. Please do not hesitate to contact us at (214) 637-5200 if you have any questions or concerns.

NOTE: ALWAYS TEST A SMALL INCONSPICUOUS AREA WITH THE CHEMICALS AND DETERGENTS, THAT YOU INTEND TO USE ON THE COUNTERTOPS, TO MAKE SURE THEY DO NOT HARM THE FINISH.         

INTRODUCTION                            

Granite is mostly composed of igneous materials. It is a lot harder than marble and easier to maintain. In general its rank on the hardness scale is high, right below quarts. In fact many granites have quartz crystals embedded in them. Some granites are softer than others (Black) which make them more susceptible to scratching. Many of these materials are permeable (absorbent) depending on their composition and finish and can be stained by different liquids. In general most granites are resistant to acids and alkalis found in detergents (Always test an area first- See above). Granite countertops are mostly vulnerable to staining from the different liquids, breaking due to impact or heat and scratching with very sharp knives. 

PREVENTIVE

With all this in mind, the basic items to remember when caring for Granite Counters are:

1.      Wipe off spills immediately, so staining is minimized.

2.      Avoid placing hot pots or pans on the granite.

3.      Avoid impact with heavy or sharp objects.

DO’s

·        Use only penetrating sealers recommended by your installer or stone manufacturers on the more absorbent materials to minimize stains.

·        Clean spills immediately. Hot oils will penetrate into the granite even if it is sealed.

·        Clean your counter using regular detergents (test first).

·        Use a chopping board to chop or cut food.

·        Use coasters under cups. And hot pads under pots and pans.

·        Try “K2R” spot remover to remove stains if they occur.

·        Use a professional to remove tough stains, scratches and/or restore the finish on the granite.

DON’Ts

·        Even though granite is harder than steel, don’t use very sharp knives directly on the counter.

·        Don’t step, stand or lean heavily on the counter (especially near cutouts). It may break.

·        Don’t place hot pans directly on the counter. It may break due to uneven expansion.

·        If you have an under mount sink, avoid filling it with water and dishes for a prolonged period of time, it may come dislodged from the granite above.

·        Avoid hot oil spills from frying pans, etc. If you have hot oil stains, try removing them with “K2R”.

·        Avoid dragging boxes and other containers on the counters, since many times these have sand and dirt on the bottom that may scratch the surface. This happens a lot when moving in and out.