Countertop Care and Maintenance

Now that you have your new countertops, you want to keep them looking their best. We are committed to providing you with quality products and information to help you keep your countertops looking as good as the day they were installed.

Don't underestimate the importance of the right cleaning product and methods for your countertops.

As always, we are here for you before, during, and after the sale. So please feel free to call us if you have any questions about maintaining your new countertops.

Care and Maintenance of Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are virtually scratch and chip resistant making it very easy to maintain. With very little maintenance you can preserve its original luster for years to come. Using soft cloths and cleaning products specifically designed for granite countertops are preferable for day-to-day cleaning. Should any acidic products such as wine, juice or chemical products spill on the countertop surface it should be wiped off immediately. The use of abrasive products should be avoided on granite countertops as this may cause the sealing material to deteriorate prematurely.

Granite countertops should be resealed periodically to help prevent staining. This is usually done every couple of years depending on how much they are used. Sealing can be done by a professional or as a do it yourself project. The application of the sealant is very important because it protects the stone from outside elements, allows the beauty of the stone to shine through, and provides a usable surface that is both durable and strong.

Strong detergents or corrosive liquids can dull the polished granite surface and should not be used.

Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers, scouring powders, or 'soft' cleansers.

Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface.

Care and Maintenance of Corian Countertops

Soapy water, ammonia based cleaners (not window cleaners as they can leave a waxy build up that may dull the surface) or commercially available solid surface cleaners will remove most dirt and residue from all types of finishes. Stubborn residue will require a little stronger cleaner.

Experience has shown that a film builds up on the surface if water is left to dry on the countertop. This film will dull the look of the countertop making the finish appear blotchy and uneven. To prevent build up of the film, it is very important to wipe the countertop completely dry after spills and cleaning.

To enhance the gloss level on semi-gloss and high-gloss finishes, use a countertop polish such as Countertop Magic, Hope's Countertop Polish or Enhance Countertop Polish.

In most cases Solid Surface countertops can be repaired if damaged. Be sure to follow these guidelines to help you prevent any permanent damage.

Avoid getting strong chemicals, such as paint removers, oven cleaners, etc., on your countertop. If a spill does occur, promptly flush the surface with water to fully rinse off the chemical. Do not cut directly on Corian® countertops. Use a cutting board.

CAUTION

DO NOT PLACE HOT POTS, PANS, ETC. DIRECTLY ON THE COUNTERTOP SURFACE.

Always use heat trivets or hot pads when placing hot objects on any surface. Always use a trivet under portable heat generating appliances such as a crock pot or toaster oven. Allow cookware to cool before placing it into a sink.

Care and Maintenance of Quartz Countertops

Natural quartz countertops are the toughest interior surface available on the market. It resists scratching, staining and scorching better than any other natural stone or solid surface. Do avoid excessive force or pressure because that may mar or chip the surface. Don't worry about spills from coffee, wine, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, makeup, and many other common household products; just avoid harsh chemicals. And don't worry about dropping a lit match onto your quartz countertop; it won't scorch. But, use trivets when placing any hot items to avoid thermal shock.

For cleaning Quartz countertops with a polished finish, we recommend you use a mild household cleaner, such as 409. In case of stubborn spills or stains, soak the area for up to 10 minutes with one of these cleaners and vigorously wipe away with a Scotch Brite® pad.

CAUTION

The following will harm Quartz Surfaces: Drano, Liquid Plumr, oven cleaners and floor strippers. Do NOT use these or any other harsh chemicals on your quartz surface.

Do NOT use crock pots or electric skillets while in direct contact with your Quartz surfaces. Always place them on a trivet or cutting board to protect your countertop.

As with any natural stone, certain exposure to heat may cause cracks due to thermal shock.

If you would like more detailed information, please visit the SileStone website or contact your Counterscapes representative.