News & Advice

Granite

Granite

What is the downside of granite countertops?

Granite is more susceptible to staining and chipping. Granite requires ongoing maintenance to avoid staining, and can chip or break if installed incorrectly.

Can you put hot pans on granite?

Yes, because granite is a natural stone that does not include resin, it can handle the heat of the kitchen. While frequently placing hot pans on granite is not recommended, granite can withstand heat better than quartz.

Is it ok to cut on granite?

It is not recommended to cut directly on your granite, as it can scratch the tops.

What happens if you don’t reseal granite?

If granite is not resealed, it becomes susceptible to staining. We recommend sealing your granite at least once a year or as necessary. You can test whether your granite needs resealed by placing a small amount of water on your countertops. After 10 minutes, if the area has darkened, the granite needs to be sealed again.

Can I seal granite myself?

Yes, you can seal granite yourself. There are excellent sealers that can be purchased at most hardware stores or online. Follow the instructions that come with the sealer for best results.

How can I tell if granite has been sealed?

Place a small amount of water on the granite and let it sit for 10 minutes. If the countertop darkens, the granite has not been sealed. It is important to seal your granite every year, as this helps to fill the pores of the stone and avoid staining.

What is the best type of granite?

Granite is graded based upon several characteristics, including color, veining, patterns, thickness, the amount of impurities it has, and also the location of the quarry where it is extracted. There are three grades, with Level 1 representing lower grade granite, Level 2 representing middle-grade granite, and Level 3 representing the highest quality granite. The higher the quality of granite, the higher the price of granite.

Can you prepare food on granite?

Yes, you can prepare food on granite. We do not, however, recommend putting raw meat directly on the countertop. Because granite is porous, it can absorb any moisture or liquid that it may come into contact with while you cook.

What cleaners are safe for granite?

You should avoid using cleaners that have bleach, ammonia, or acids in them on your granite. Hot water and dish soap are generally good for cleaning and sanitizing your countertops.

How do you sanitize granite countertops?

Cleaning the granite with hot water and dish soap is good for daily sanitizing. We generally recommend that homeowners keep it simple, using only hot water and dish soap for the daily cleaning and sanitizing of their granite countertops.

How often should you reseal granite?

The short answer is that resealing at least once a year is best. However, test your granite by placing a small amount of water on it and letting it sit for 10 minutes. If the countertop darkens, it needs to be resealed. It is important to seal your granite every year, as this helps to fill the pores of the stone and avoid staining.

Is granite still in style in 2022?

Granite comes in a variety of patterns and colors. As such, granite is typically one color or another depending on style. Over the last several years, white granite or lighter granite colors have been more common… though we are slowly starting to see the darker colors cycle back into style. In short, yes, granite is still in style in 2022.

What granite colors are in style?

Lighter-colored granites and quartzes have been in style most recently. However, there does seem to be a growing trend of darker countertops returning.

Does anyone use granite anymore?

Yes, granite still represents a large portion of the stone countertop market. Quartz has been steadily growing in popularity, particularly as lighter colors have become more popular in recent years.

How long do granite countertops last?

Quality granite countertops are considered a lifetime purchase. As long as you love the look of your granite countertops, they will stand the test of time and should easily handle your daily use.

Can Windex be used on granite?

No, we do not recommend using Windex as a cleaner for granite countertops. Using Windex on granite countertops can remove the sealer that is used to fill the pores of the stone.

Do granite countertops scratch easily?

No, granite countertops do not scratch easily. While they do not scratch easily, we always recommend using a cutting board for food preparation. This protects your countertops and ensures that the porous granite doesn’t soak up the juices of the food you’re preparing.

Do Clorox wipes work on granite?

While Clorox wipes may clean the surface of the stone, we do not recommend the use of Clorox wipes on your granite. Continual use of Clorox wipes can dull your granite countertops and remove the sealer due to the chemicals in the wipes. You should also avoid the use of abrasive pads, as their continued use can scratch your countertops.

Can you use Dawn soap on granite?

Yes, Dawn is safe to use on granite. Warm water and dish soap are a good option for cleaning and sanitizing your granite countertops.

What cleaner is best for granite?

We recommend keeping it as simple as possible. Using warm water and dish soap is a good option. Additionally, any natural cleaner is safe for granite.

Can you use vinegar on granite?

Vinegar, much like bleach or Windex, will remove the sealer on your granite and typically give it a dull look. You should also avoid the use of abrasive pads, as their continued use can scratch your countertops.

Why is my granite not shiny?

Dullness in your granite countertop is generally caused by buildup from a cleaner or a soap film. Denatured alcohol can be used to bring back the shine to your countertops.

What granite color is best for kitchens?

The best color for your kitchen is what YOU prefer. There are tons of options on colors and patterns, and we’re able to help you find whatever suits your lifestyle.