When it comes to kitchen design, countertops are key
Countertops are functional but they also offer an aesthetic value to every space. They provide the perfect opportunity to enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen and bath. Other design opportunities include backsplashes in kitchens and baths and eye-catching materials for your shower walls and tub surrounds.
There are a variety of materials available today for countertops
Many times no one material is best for all surfaces. This is especially true from a design perspective; combining different materials in creative applications always makes for a show stopper space!
THE “DO’S & DON’TS” OF COUNTERTOP CARE
The natural stone you have purchased for your home or office is an investment that will provide many years of use. Stone is a natural product that requires only simple care & maintenance to keep it looking beautiful. Here are some recommendations for routine cleaning & care.
- Do use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. You should also protect countertop surfaces with trivets or placemats, as many common foods & drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the stone surface.
- Do clean surfaces with mild detergent or Stone Pro Spray Cleaner.
- Do thoroughly rinse & dry the surface after washing.
- Do blot up spills immediately.
- Don’t place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or place mats under hot dishes, china, ceramics, silver & other objects that might scratch the surface.
- Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids on natural stone surfaces.
- Don’t use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub & tile cleaners.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners such as dry or soft cleansers.
- Don’t mix bleach & ammonia. This combination creates a toxic & lethal gas.
CLEANING PROCECURES & RECOMMENDATIONS
When cleaning stone surfaces, use a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap (available at hardware stores or from a stone dealer like Great Floors) or a mild dishwashing detergent & warm water.
Use a soft cloth for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks on your countertops. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids. This includes many over-the-counter household cleaners. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing & dry using another soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powder or creams, as these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
In food preparation areas, your stone surface may need to have a penetrating sealer applied. Check with your installer for recommendations. If a sealer is applied, be sure that it is non-toxic and safe for use on food preparation surfaces. If you have any questions, check with your sealer manufacturer.
Great Floors offers a selection of products to clean & seal your granite countertops. Visit your nearest Great Floors showroom and ask for the Stone Pro Spray Cleaner & other product recommendations.
COUntertops customer care and information guide
Need help selecting the perfect material for your countertops? Explore our helpful guide to find the perfect look for your home.
