Granite is one of the toughest surfaces that you can choose for your kitchen worktops. Of course, this does not mean that it is immune to damage. Granite surfaces can still be chipped and scratched if they are not properly cared for. To prevent your granite from getting scratched, keep these tips in mind.
Gentle cleaning
You should never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning supplies. These chemicals and supplies can cause serious damage. When cleaning your surfaces, you need to use plain water and a soft cloth or as your stone supplier for their stone cleaner recommendations. Always follow the instructions on the stone cleaner package. To prevent substances from penetrating the surface of your stone worktops, you should seal your worktops immediately after installation and on a regular basis thereafter.
Chopping boards and coasters
Chopping directly on your stone surfaces will not only dull your knives, but it will also scratch the stone. Granite is durable but it is not immune to scratches. You should also make use of coasters. Place items on coasters so that they don’t damage your work surfaces.
Heavy objects
Avoid placing heavy objects on your worktops. When they are moved even slightly, it can scratch your worktops. If you do have to place something heavy on these surfaces, you should always use something like a chopping board on the surface first. Once you are done with whatever you are preparing, you should remove the heavy object as soon as possible. Particularly heavy objects should be placed on a different surface or your stove instead. Placing added weight on your worktops can put your cabinets under stress as well.
Keep these tips in mind and you will keep your granite worktops looking their absolute best for that much longer. Of course, if your worktops do end up scratched, you can always have a professional buff the scratches out before you reseal your worktops.