Sealing:

All natural stone has some degree of porosity which will require the application of a penetrating sealer. Granite, the most dense, will need to be resealed every 2-4 years depending on how it is cleaned. We recommend using cleaners than are non acidic, such as ammonia and bleach. Although they will not harm the granite they will break down the sealer faster over time. Neutral ph cleaners for stone found in grocery and home improvement stores work very well. We will be happy to sell you the products we find work well.

Calcium based materials (Marble, Travertine, and Onyx) are not as dense as granite and require special care. Due to their chemistry, acidic cleaners, foods and drinks will etch the surface if exposed for a length of time. This time will vary by product. Etching is a dull spot created in a shiny surface. Do not worry for most all natural stones can be resurfaced and brought back to its natural state. These materials should be sealed with a penetrating sealer from time to time.

How do I know when it is time? A simple water test is all it takes. Take a glass of ice water and place it on the counter. If, after it has had time to condense, the water beads and wipes up with no discoloration then you are fine. If the glass leaves a dark ring on the countertop then the sealer has been compromised and it is time to repeat the application process. We are happy to provide this service. However, it is quite simple and takes very little time and effort.

Additional Care:

Natural and engineered stone materials are the most desirable countertop products on the market. Be sure to keep your countertops free of dirt and sand. Sand is essentially fine granite. Granite can scratch granite. Do not place heavy items such as boxes on your countertops and slide them. If there is sand between the box and the counter then it will be scratched. These can be removed; however, it does cost money and is inconvenient.

Granite and Engineered Stone is heat resistant. You can place you hot pans on them with out scorching or discoloring the surface. You will not get away with this on other solid surface materials.

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