Tag Archives: kitchen countertops care

How Do You Bring Granite Countertops Back to Life?

Granite countertops are popular among homeowners due to their durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. While this is the case, even the most beautiful granite countertops can lose their shine over time if not properly maintained.

If your granite surfaces are beginning to look dull, don’t worry—restoring their natural luster is easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll show you how to bring your countertops back to life and make them look new:

Clean the countertops with the right products.

The first step in bringing your granite countertops back to life is to clean them on a regular basis. Avoid using harsh or acidic cleansers, as these can damage the surface. Instead, choose a pH-neutral cleanser formulated exclusively for granite.

You can make your own by combining mild dish soap and warm water. Wipe off the surface with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge, and be sure to clear up any spills or crumbs right away to avoid stains.

To be on the safe side, avoid using vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach since these will etch the granite and dull its appearance over time.

Wiping the surface alone will not provide a complete clean surface that you are looking for. Scrubbing is necessary for deep cleaning. Granite countertops have sealants to make them stain-resistant and shiny.

Use a pH-neutral granite cleaning solution and apply it carefully and meticulously to the countertop. Anything too basic or acidic may degrade the sealant, so avoid bleach and vinegar.

A gentle sponge, soap, and water are all you need. Avoid using abrasive pads for scrubbing.

Polish with granite safe polish

Periodically polishing your granite countertops will restore their sheen and give them a glossy appearance. You can use a granite-specific polish or make your solution by combining water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle (1:1).

Spray the solution onto the counter, wipe it off with a microfiber cloth, then buff the surface to restore the shine.

For the best results, polish your granite worktops at least once a week or whenever they become dull.

You can polish your granite countertop with wet or dry material, depending on the manufacturer and the primary color of the stone. Some of the options you have include:

Granite Polishing Powder

This is a quick and easy solution to restore the brilliance of your granite countertop while also removing minor stains and scratches.

Granite polishing cream

This compound contains gentle abrasives that are ideal for premium-manufactured granite surfaces. It is perfect for countertops that have been in place for years.

Cooking oil

You can also dampen a soft cleaning cloth with cooking oil and wipe it around the counter. This improves the countertop’s stain resistance and brightness.

Reseal the countertop surfaces.

Granite is a porous stone that you must seal to keep stains and moisture from entering the surface. Over time, the sealer wears off, leaving your granite less polished and more subject to harm. Resealing your granite countertops can help keep its protective layer and improve its luster.

To determine whether your granite needs resealing, perform a simple water test: pour a little amount of water on the surface and wait 15-20 minutes. If water soaks into the granite rather than beads up, it is time to reseal.

To reseal the countertops, purchase granite sealant from your local hardware store.

Clean and dry the work surface completely.
Apply the sealant evenly to the surface and allow it to set for the prescribed period.
Wipe away any excess with a clean towel and let the surface dry completely before applying it again.

To provide the best protection and gloss, reseal your granite worktops every 12-18 months.

Buff the surface for extra shine.

If your granite worktop still lacks shine after cleaning and polishing, rubbing it using a high-quality granite polishing powder may assist. This process requires the use of a particular granite buffing compound, which is available in most hardware and stone-care stores.

Follow the product’s instructions, applying it using a soft cloth or a power buffer for an extra glossy finish.

Buffing should only be done on occasion; excessive buffing can wear down the surface over time, and you don’t want this.

Avoid pitfalls that can dull your surfaces.

To maintain your granite worktops looking their best, you should avoid the following things:

Harsh chemicals: As previously stated, acidic or abrasive cleaners can harm surfaces.

Using blades directly on the surface: Although granite is a durable material, knives can scratch or dull its sheen.

Heavy objects: Avoid placing heavy pots or appliances directly on the surface, as this might result in fractures or dents.

Hot pots and pans: Always use trivets or heat-resistant mats to avoid thermal stress, which can harm the granite.

Take good care of the surfaces.

Consistent maintenance is essential for keeping your granite worktops looking their best. Regular cleaning, polishing, and resealing of your granite worktops will keep them looking beautiful and glossy for many years.

To avoid long-term problems, clean up any spills, stains, or damage as soon as possible.

Replace the countertops

Even with cleaning and resealing and ongoing care, a granite countertop may not be completely repaired, especially if it’s more than 15 years old. Replacement may be one of the few possibilities for achieving a finished and repaired appearance, but it can be pricey.

If you don’t want to spend the money, refinishing material may be a cheaper option. Also, replacing your granite countertops does not have to be a total loss if you investigate and uncover wholesale sellers, outdated styles, or leftover bits and scraps that will significantly reduce the cost of any replacement.

Parting shot

These are some of the things you can do to bring your granite countertops to life. As you have seen, it’s not hard to do it. To keep your granite kitchen countertops Raleigh from getting too damaged or too dull that you have to rescue them, make it a habit to take good care of them.

This calls for you to be ultra-cautious about what you put on them. You also should be ultra-cautious with the materials you use to clean the surfaces, as you don’t want to cause harm.

How Do I Choose a Countertop? Here is How to Go About It

Whether you’re remodeling or creating a new kitchen, you need new countertops in most cases. After removing the old countertops, there are numerous factors to consider when selecting the new countertops.

To help you out, here are factors to consider when looking for new countertop replacement units:

How you will be using the countertops

When deciding on the best countertops for your kitchen, you’ll undoubtedly consider how they look first. If you do not choose a material that can endure the daily use of the room, your money will be wasted. So ask yourself: how do you and your family utilize the kitchen?

Do you cook frequently? Do your counters show wear and tear from hosting parties or having youngsters at home? How long do you intend to live in your house?

You should answer these questions to make the right choice.

Purchasing multiple types of materials is one way to accommodate varied purposes for your kitchen. If you slice a lot of items while cooking, you might want to use butcher block on some of your counters so that you have a built-in cutting board. If you bake frequently, you will benefit from working with dough on a marble surface.

Mixing and matching kitchen countertop materials can also save you money. For example, if you have a large island, you may use a less expensive material here. Then, you can spend a little more cash on nearby counters that occupy fewer square feet.

The amount of maintenance you are willing to do

You should be honest and realistic about this one. Before you fall in love with the appearance of a material, understand the requirements for its upkeep. Here’s something to remember:

The butcher block is long-lasting but must be sealed biannually to prevent severe deterioration.

Porous materials such as marble, limestone, and granite require annual oiling and sealing.

Other materials, like quartz, only require a simple wipe-down without requiring any sealing.

This makes it easy to maintain your units.

If you don’t have much time to do the sealing and other maintenance tasks, you should avoid countertops that require much care as they will be too much of a bother.

Your budget

The cost of materials varies greatly, but with appropriate maintenance, good kitchen countertops can last long. You should choose your dream countertops and pick a variant within your budget.

For example, maybe you like the beauty of marble, but it’s out of your budget. Quartz has a similar look but is slightly less pricey. So, you should consider buying it.

Depending on the variations between your ideal countertops and the less expensive alternative, investing a little more money on something you’ll be using for many years may be worthwhile.

If you aren’t sure how much money you should spend on the countertops, a good rule of thumb is to pay between 15% and 30% of your money on kitchen countertops. If you spend less than 15%, the quality may be inferior to the other materials you use.

On the other hand, if your countertops cost more than 30%, you may be going overboard.

The amount of space that you have

Knowing how many linear feet of countertop space you have will allow you to estimate how much material you’ll need. Take this to several companies and compare it to their various alternatives and brands. This will give you a general estimate of how much it will cost you to purchase one material or brand over another.

The materials and colors that fit your home

And now to the question that often comes to mind: what will look best in my kitchen? Here’s a list of questions to help you decide which kitchen countertop material and color will complement your design:

Do you prefer a particular countertop color?
Do you expect your paint and hardware options to change?
How does your pick look against your current kitchen walls?
Are you satisfied with your present kitchen style or do you wish to change it up?

To leave your options open, choose a material with veins or splashes of color.

You should select a neutral color. Paint and accessories might vary over time, so having counters that match everything is a good idea.

If possible, take the samples home to ensure that you are buying the right countertop that looks great on your home. Looking at the material in your kitchen’s distinctive light and comparing it to the room’s colors, woods, decorations, and flooring will help you decide whether it suits your vision.

Countertop options to go with

Are you wondering what are your options when it comes to kitchen countertops? Well, there are many. The most popular ones include:

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops, which closely mimic genuine stone, remain popular among those seeking a unique countertop. Unlike the concrete countertops of the late 1980s, which were poured haphazardly over the cabinets, today’s fabricators provide pre-cast counters manufactured in a workshop and delivered—fully cured and finished—to your home.

Pre-cast concrete countertops are normally 1½ inches thick and come in slabs up to 10 feet long. Pigments are added to the concrete during mixing to create a range of hues.

After curing, the slabs are sharpened and sealed to avoid stains. Cracking is always an issue with concrete. Thus, fabricators frequently employ wire mesh, metal rebar, fiberglass, or stainless steel fibers to reinforce the counter.

Granite countertops

Granite is a popular material for kitchen countertops due to its durability and natural beauty. Each block of granite is unique, with different veining and color variations.

Some of the reasons you can consider granite kitchen countertops include:

Increase the value of a home.
They come in a variety of colors and patterns.
They are exceedingly durable and scratch-resistant.
Offer heat resistance.

Parting shot

These are some factors to consider when choosing kitchen countertops Raleigh for your next project. For the best outcome, ensure that you choose countertops that match the design of your home and are easy to maintain.

Tips for Keeping Your Kitchen Countertops in Good Shape

Having the correct kitchen countertop surfaces can be incredibly advantageous in the long run. For example, high-quality countertops bring significant worth to your life and help attract serious purchasers if you decide to sell your house later.

They also significantly increase the functionality of your kitchen. Cleaning up with high-performance kitchen countertop surfaces is a breeze, streamlining your everyday routine.

One of the most significant advantages of installing new kitchen countertops is that they can completely transform the appearance of your kitchen.

Your kitchen will look substantially better if you’ve invested in beautiful countertops. You don’t want your new countertops to look out of place, do you? To ensure this doesn’t happen, here are tips to keep your countertops in good shape:

Ensure the countertops are correctly installed

One of the simplest ways to keep your kitchen countertops in good condition is to hire an experienced professional to perform a proper installation.

Keep in mind that some kitchen countertop materials require high maintenance. If you’re not up to the task, it can be challenging to maintain your countertops.

As a result, it is essential to start by consulting an expert to determine which kitchen countertop material is most suited for your needs. You should also search for a kitchen renovation contractor with experience installing new worktops.

Ask someone you know who has recently installed high-quality countertops you admire for a referral.

You can also look online and read reviews to find a professional to install it properly. If you’re inclined to do the project yourself, you should reconsider because there is a severe learning curve.

The last thing you want to do is learn on the job. When done incorrectly, your kitchen countertops may become misaligned and have poorly sealed seams. You don’t want this, do you?

Improper installation might make keeping your countertops in good condition challenging due to uneven surfaces, discoloration, and peeling. As a result, if you want long-lasting countertops, investing in superior craftsmanship is worthwhile.

While this is the case, you should note that an experienced professional doesn’t come cheap. Due to this, you should be ready to spend some money. The beauty is that you will have excellent results.

Seal the countertops regularly.

If you’re lucky, your kitchen countertop materials won’t need you to apply surface sealant. However, if you have granite, wood, or concrete countertops, this is a prerequisite as it helps protect against scratches, stains, and drying out. Kitchen counters with porous surfaces can trap moisture if they’re not properly sealed, which causes all sorts of problems, such as the growth of bacteria.

This can negatively impact the function of your countertops because when you can’t correctly disinfect the surfaces, it might not be safe to use them for meal preparation.

On the other hand, sealed surfaces don’t absorb spills, and they are much easier to clean. Sealing them also prevents etching, which happens when things like lemon juice spill and you don’t immediately spill them.

Sealing makes countertops easy to clean and helps preserve the countertop’s natural surfaces. Typically, surfaces are best sealed during installation. That’s why it’s a good idea to use a professional for the installation; they know what type of sealant to use.

Besides sealing the countertops at the time of installation, you should also reseal them regularly, at least once yearly.

Protect the countertops from heat.

Keeping heat away from your countertops makes sense because it is harmful and warps materials. Heat causes materials to expand and then constrict when they cool. Repeated expansion and contraction can be detrimental to countertops.

While this is the case, you might be shocked by how many individuals believe it will make little impact. If you ignore these guidelines, your countertops may not look worn out today or tomorrow, but they will wear down faster.

The more susceptible the countertops are to heat, the more quickly they may be harmed.

To protect the surfaces, ensure that no direct heat gets into contact with the surfaces. This requires you to use trivets when placing hot pans on the surface. While you’re at it, use a cutting board rather than slicing right on the kitchen countertop. This will allow you to avoid persistent and ugly scratches.

Clean the countertops with the suitable materials.

If you follow the proper cleaning procedures, your countertops will remain in excellent shape for a long time. One of the most effective preventative methods for maintaining the appearance of your kitchen countertop materials is to clean spills as soon as they occur.

This prevents stains from accumulating on your surfaces, which are difficult to remove. Even if you invest in a spill-resistant material, it is still possible for the material to absorb the spill over time.

Watch out for acidic substances, as they can be harmful to most kitchen countertops. As a result, act swiftly when dealing with low-pH spills.

This contains acids such as lemon, citric acid, and vinegar. In any case, keep your counters dry and wipe them down often to remove any moisture.

Using abrasive items on most kitchen countertop surfaces is a bad idea. Tools like steel wool are prone to scratching the surfaces, giving them an ugly appearance.

Typically, You can keep your countertops looking neat and clean using a simple cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth.

A microfiber cloth, in particular, can work wonders because it is incredibly absorbent and excellent at removing grime. Use mild cleaning because harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners might cause more harm than good.

Parting shot

These are some tricks you can use to keep your granite countertops Durham or any other ones in top shape. Remember that taking good care of your countertops keeps them in top shape and good-looking and saves you money, as you don’t need to replace the counters after a few months or years.

Fixing Common Marble Countertop Problems

People install marble countertops to add timeless appeal to their property. Marble has received high appreciation for its durability, gorgeous appearance, and ease of care. Unfortunately, like any other countertops, they get damaged.

Have you seen any scratches, cracks, or chips on your marble surfaces? Then you need to fix them. To help you out, here is how to go about it:

Fixing cracks, fissures, and holes

Cracks, fissures, and/or holes in marble countertops can occur for a variety of reasons. Exposure to severe temperatures, as well as dropping heavy objects on marble surfaces, can cause cracking or chipping. Inconsistencies in the marble itself can also occasionally cause fissures to form, which can eventually lead to cracks.

Cracks or chips can worsen over time, so you should have them repaired as soon as you see them.

You should note that if left untreated, the damage to the countertop may worsen to the point that you have to replace the entire piece. In extreme circumstances, marble fractures can be dangerous since a portion of the counter can break and injure someone.

For hair-like cracks, simply apply a small amount of epoxy sealer and smooth it with a putty knife. Then, using a clean, moist cloth, wipe any excess epoxy sealant from the marble.

When your marble worktop has a deep chip, it is slightly more difficult to repair the marble since you must design a filler that resembles the original marble pattern.

It’s generally difficult to handle this as a DIY project, so you need to be proficient in stonework to engage a professional marble repair specialist to restore deep chips so that the finished product matches the rest of your marble countertop.

Getting rid of stains and visible burns

Marble is also stainable, so if you have marble countertops, be cautious not to spill acidic or oily meals, as they can discolor the marble over time. If you do spill, wipe it up soon.

Unlike granite counters, marble can scorch when exposed to high temperatures—so keep hot pots and pans away from marble surfaces to avoid damage.

If any discoloration or burn marks appear, expert marble repair will be required to return the countertop to its original state.

To remove stains from the surface of your marble worktop, use tin oxide polishing powder. With minimal effort, the stains should disappear.

Removing scratches and normal wear and tear

Despite its versatility and durability, marble remains a somewhat soft stone that can be scraped and damaged by sharp items.

Over time, with frequent use (as in busy kitchens), you may notice evidence of wear and tear, such as light scratches and scuff marks. If these marks do not disappear after washing or buffing with a soft cloth, the surface likely needs to be repaired.

To cure scratches on marble surfaces, use a tin oxide substance, often known as grade polishing powder. Tin oxide is extremely effective at repairing scratches and stains on marble surfaces.

Simply apply the tin oxide powder to your scratched marble surface and use a piece of lint-free fabric to gently massage the powder in a circular motion until the scratch or stain disappears.

Getting rid of dullness from your surfaces

Marble finishes lose their lustre over time due to routine wear. You may notice that areas of your countertop that you frequently use appear duller than the rest of the surface.

When this occurs, the best approach to restore the countertop’s beauty and consistency is to have specialists perform the repairs.

Fixing broken pieces

Sometimes, marble bits break off your countertop. If this is the situation in your home, the best option is to use marble adhesive. Apply the adhesive around the hole where the piece(s) of marble has broken off and the detached piece(s).

Next, reposition the marble pieces and press down hard until they remain in place alone. Then, allow them to dry completely for 24 hours.

Once the marble adhesive has dried, use a moist cloth or sponge to remove any excess adhesive. The job is done.

How do you protect your marble from damage?

Prevention is always better than cure, so instead of spending time fixing your marble, you can protect it from damage. How do you go about it?

Treat it like wood

A good approach is to treat your marble like a high-quality wood finish. Use coasters and cutting boards to avoid drying wet dishes or glasses directly on the marble surface.

The only way to avoid marble etching and staining is to avoid contact with the chemicals and cleansers that cause these issues.

Unfortunately, accidents, spills, and catastrophes are unavoidable in every kitchen.

If you spill something, clean it up promptly. Do not let it sit on the stone.

If you discover any markings after washing the countertop, the marble has likely been stained or etched.

Seal your marble

Marble is a soft and porous stone; therefore, you should keep it protected to prevent scratches and stains.

You should drop several drops of water on the countertop to test the surface. Return to the spot in five to ten minutes. If the drips remain, the surface is still well sealed; if the drops have dissolved, it is time to reseal.

When your marble requires resealing, you can do it yourself (DIY). You only need to ensure that you use premium silicone sealer.

Besides sealing the surfaces by yourself, it’s also wise to have your marble countertops professionally sealed every 3-5 years, depending on how much wear and tear they have.

If you see a lot of stains and etches, it’s time to contact the professionals.

Clean the surfaces regularly.

You should regularly clean your surfaces. When doing it, avoid using acidic or abrasive cleansers, which might cause surface damage. Instead, use pH-neutral cleaners, such as gentle dish soap or cleaners made specifically for marble.

The beauty is that you don’t need any special skills to clean your marble kitchen countertops Raleigh. You also don’t need to hire a professional to help you out. You can easily clean your home by yourself.

Tricks to Making the Most of Your Small Kitchen Countertops

Even if cooking isn’t one of your favorite activities, a small kitchen countertop can make life difficult. Even if you’re not slicing veggies, you’ll want a large enough surface to set your grocery bags, appliances, and other accessories or decorative objects, but how do you make the most of a little countertop?

If your modern kitchen doesn’t have enough space for an island, you’ll have to make do with the countertops you have, which is more said than done.

To help you out, here are easy ways to maximize space and make the most of your small kitchen countertops.

Choose multifunctional appliances

Appliances usually occupy a lot of room on your kitchen countertop, so opt for multifunctional ones whenever possible.

If you like coffee, your coffee maker, grinder, and frother (together with all their cords) might take up a lot of space on your worktop.

To save space, consider a coffee maker that grinds the beans, brews the coffee, and froths the milk. Although such an appliance will be of significant in size, it will still take up less room than the individual parts, and you can rest assured that there will be no excess wiring cluttering your space.

Many people often ignore the oven, which isn’t good. Consider replacing an integrated one with the standard four burners in your tiny kitchen with a domino hob.

Because most people don’t use all four burners simultaneously, choosing a domino hob with only two burners mounted vertically can help you gain some extra inches.

Get rid of duplicates and anything else you aren’t using

When you have limited room, you can’t afford to keep every outdated thing you don’t use.

This is because they will create a cluttered appearance and slowly but steadily take up the majority of your available surface, which is why it is critical to declutter your kitchen countertops if you want to regain some space.

Duplicates are common in most kitchens. You can be five-can openers or twenty wooden spoons, which aren’t necessary. To free up space, collect items from the same category and minimize the volume, preserving the best and greatest quality.

This way, you’ll have fewer things (that you use) but have more space.

Make use of the space above the sink.

This is a brilliant solution that you can use to your advantage. You need to cover the sink with marble or any other material and make use of the space.

Since you have covered the area you wouldn’t have used, now you have space to do some cutting and many other tasks.

Organize your cupboards properly.

Many people wind up cluttering their worktops with objects that could easily fit in their kitchen cabinets if they were a little more organized.

You can arrange your space more wisely now that you’ve decluttered and removed all duplicates and objects you don’t need.

Begin by organizing and maximizing your cabinet space so your countertops are not congested. This calls for you to look into storage alternatives for your kitchen cupboards to keep the counters clear.

Fortunately, there are numerous kitchen storage solutions to help you maximize your cabinet space, which allow you to use all of the area while quickly accessing all of your items, spice racks that hang on the back of cabinet doors, and shelf organizers, which allow you to use the space vertically.

You can use wire storage baskets to maximize space within your cabinets so you can tuck in.

Making the most of your storage means you’ll have less need to keep storage caddies or food packets on your countertops, which leaves you enough room to do other things.

Make use of drawers.

Because you’ll be stashing as much as possible away from the counters, you will have a lot of space.

If you have a mix of drawers and shelves, the equipment you use the most should be in the drawers, while less commonly used tools, such as special cake pans, should be stored in the rear reaches of the shelves.

If you don’t have a lot of lower drawers, try installing pull-out cabinet shelves, which are as close to retrofitting drawers into your existing cabinets as you can get.

Think about decanting

It’s debatable, but there is no harm in decanting pantry products into glass jars. After all, when the pantry items are too many, you place them on the countertops, and you don’t want this.

Yes, it’s fussy, but in a compact area, they fit far more neatly into cabinets than a jumble of boxes and bags, resulting in less mess overall and the need to move some to the countertops.

You can upcycle tomato sauce jars and the like, but nothing beats old-school clip-top jars when it comes to airtight storage.

Using the version has much potential for extra storage, but you’ll want to be careful not to crowd your area with too many objects hanging from the walls.

A magnetic knife rack on the wall is practical since it takes up far less space than in-drawer knife storage or a knife block, and it keeps your blades within easy reach.

A hanging rail is also a good idea to consider for that added space.

There are other alternative options for going vertical. For example, you can screw cup hooks into the underside of higher cupboards and hang your cups next to the coffee maker.

Install a hook and hang a wire fruit basket to reclaim the space previously occupied by the fruit bowl, and purchase strong magnetic hooks and stick them to your range.

While going vertical will save you a lot of granite countertops Raleigh that you can use for other roles, you should note that if you use all of these tactics, your kitchen will feel claustrophobic. And you don’t want this.

Instead, you should work with experienced contractors who will guide you on taking advantage of the vertical spaces without letting things get out of control.

What you Need to Know About Kitchen Countertops

In most households, the kitchen is the busiest room. Besides being used for cooking, kitchens are used for other purposes. For example, they are used as meeting spaces and even go-to serve as dining areas in homes without formal dining rooms.

Because so much time is spent in the kitchen, it is worthwhile to invest in them.

Kitchen renovations are high on many homeowners’ to-do lists, and once they commit to remodeling the room, they face a slew of considerations.

When remodeling your kitchen, you must decide which countertop material to choose. If this is where you are, here is a list of popular possibilities that will help you with that selection:

Quartz

Quartz is a low-maintenance and long-lasting countertop material. Quartz countertops are normally 94 percent ground quartz and come with a honed, sandblasted, or embossed treatment, making them appealing to homeowners with various notions about the perfect aesthetic of a kitchen countertop.

If not appropriately treated, quartz can crack, and edges and corners can chip with time. When you are in the market, go for countertops with rounded edges to reduce the possibility of chipping.

The costs of the countertops vary depending on region and product availability, but quartz is normally roughly the same price as natural stone.

Laminate

Laminate countertops are appealing to frugal households. The beauty of them is they are simple to install. Laminate countertops are available in various colors, textures, and styles.

Laminate countertops are also long-lasting, which allows frugal homeowners to stretch their budgets even further. Laminate worktops are simple to clean, but knives can permanently harm them, so always use a cutting board when preparing meals on laminate.

Although laminate is water-resistant, extended moisture exposure at seams or edges can cause swelling or warping. To prevent this from coming about, ensure that sinks are properly sealed. You also should avoid leaving wet rags or sponges on the surface.

Granite

No two slabs of granite are alike; this individuality has traditionally appealed to many homeowners. Heat, cuts, and scratches don’t affect granite too much, though this stone, like quartz, can split around edges and corners. So you need to be cautious when handling it.

Granite is a long-lasting material that can survive for decades if properly cared for. Granite is also nonporous, making it resistant to microorganisms.

Because granite is porous, you should seal it regularly to prevent stains. The frequency of sealing varies based on the type of granite and the sealer used, but it is wise to seal your countertops every 1 to 3 years.

To tell whether your countertops are ready for sealing, sprinkle a few droplets of water on the surface of your surface. If the water beads up, the seal is intact, but if the surfaces absorb the water, it’s time to reseal the stone.

Butcher block

Butcher block countertops are one of the more unusual alternatives available to homeowners. Butcher block countertops, sometimes known as “wood countertops,” are composed of fused wooden strips.

Butcher block is one of the more economical materials, but the final cost will be determined by location and availability.

Butcher block countertops are highly sensitive to fluids; therefore, you should limit the countertops’ exposure to moisture.

You can protect the butcher block countertops against bacteria and warping by sealing them soon after installation. Though butcher blocks can be difficult to maintain, many homeowners believe the unique aesthetic is worth the extra effort.

To have an easy time with your butcher block countertops, thoroughly seal them before using them. The best sealing material to use is food-safe mineral oil or a specialist butcher block oil.

The best way to do it is to allow a generous amount of oil to seep into the surface for several hours or overnight. Repeat this step every few weeks to keep the protective seal intact.

You also should oil your butcher block countertops regularly to prevent dryness, cracking, and staining. The frequency at which you oil the surfaces will depend on usage, but as a general rule, apply a light coat of mineral oil every 1 to 3 months or when the wood appears dry or dull.

Marble countertops

Many people liken marble to granite, but the two are different. Marble is a metamorphic stone, unlike granite, an igneous stone formed by crystallized magma.

While granite has a Mohs hardness value of 6-7, marble has a level of around 3-5. This is because marble is formed when pre-existing limestone or dolomite is subjected to high heat and pressure, causing calcite and carbonate crystals to reform.

Although marble is still a robust and long-lasting choice for kitchen worktops, it is softer than granite or quartzite, which means you must be more cautious about cleaning, maintenance, and the things you expose it to (acidic compounds, staining agents, and so on).

When in the market, choose a Carrara or Calacatta marble for its extraordinary beauty, adaptability, and unrivaled luxury appeal.

Concrete Countertops

While quartz, granite, and marble counters are popular among designers, concrete remains an attractive alternative, providing flexibility and creative potential that other materials cannot match. If you are looking for a unique kitchen centerpiece, a custom concrete countertop is a choice that gives you complete control.

The appeal of concrete is that it doesn’t limit you on how creative you can get. You can color it in various ways, pour it in any size or shape, and inlay it with other materials to create patterns beneath its surface.

For example, you can put shells, glass, metals, and other materials to give it a unique, appealing look.

While the countertop gives you room for creativity, you should be cautious so you don’t go overboard and detract from the natural beauty.

This calls for you to avoid extreme colors such as pink. You also should use timeless hues and patterns to ensure that the countertop remains functional even as trends come and go.

While concrete kitchen countertops Raleigh are easy to install, avoid installing them yourself, especially if this is your first time. Instead, let a professional help you out.

Can You Chop On Quartz?

Due to their tough nature, it’s tempting to want to cut directly on your quartz countertops.

Can you chop on quartz? Yes, you can do it, but you don’t have to. As much as you will find quartz in most commercial kitchens, chefs don’t cut directly on it. In fact, they make it clear that every staff using the kitchen should use a cutting board, even if quartz is known to be highly resistant to scratching.

Even if quartz is tough and scratch-resistant and you won’t immediately notice the scratches when you cut directly on it, when you repeatedly cut on the surfaces, you wear out the seal that quartz surfaces are fabricated with, which means that the food substances start going past the surface and into the core, damaging your precious countertops.

Due to the drawbacks of chopping directly on quartz, you should avoid doing it, at all times.

Other things you shouldn’t do on your quartz countertops

Besides not chopping on quartz, there are plenty of other things you shouldn’t do to keep your surfaces in top shape. These things include:

Don’t chip the corners

While quartz surfaces are highly chip-resistant, they aren’t chip-proof. This means that when you exert enough pressure on them, they are bound to chip away, and you are left with worn-out, ugly countertop surfaces.

To avoid this, take extra caution, especially around the corners, sinks, and dishwashers.

If your kitchen is too busy and you suspect there will be unavoidable chips, install multi-colored surfaces that hide chips more than monotone designs.

Avoid concentrated bleach and cleaners.

Cleaning is one of the excellent ways to keep your countertops in top shape, but you should be cautious of the bleach and cleaner you use as some cleaners contain bleach and other harmful products that can damage your countertops.

In most cases, all you need is soap and water to keep your surfaces in top shape, but if you have to use cleaning products, pay close attention to the contents and ensure that it doesn’t contain any bleach.

You should avoid acidic cleaners the same way you should stay clear of high pH cleaners as they cause the same damage as acidic cleaners.

Avoid writing the countertops.

A clean and well-maintained quartz surface is inviting, and you might be tempted to write on it, but don’t, as writings on the countertops gives them a cheap look. The situation is even worse when you write using permanent markers that won’t come out.

In the event, the kids write or draw on the countertops, move with haste, remove the marks using a dry cloth, and rinse with warm water.

Avoid cooking grease

You will rarely have your quartz countertops in the kitchen, and they go for a long time without getting greased. When grease splashes on your countertops, don’t worry. Instead, simply clean it using soap and water. If this doesn’t remove the grease, use a degreasing product.

To avoid damage, ensure that the product doesn’t have bleach or any other lethal contents that can damage your quartz surfaces.

Don’t keep solvents and chemicals on the countertops

Keep the solvents and powerful chemicals away from your countertops. These include: paint removers, furniture strippers, nail polish remover, oil soaps, bluing, and any other product.

If you have to have these chemicals on the countertops, don’t place them directly there. Instead, have a solid container to hold the products you are sure won’t leak.

Don’t place hot items on the countertops.

Quartz countertops are heat resistant but not heatproof. This means that you might get away with placing hot items directly on the countertops, but when you repeatedly do it, it’s a matter of time before you cause extensive damage.

You shouldn’t place hot items directly on the countertops to avoid this. Instead, have hot mats and trivets in a place where you put the hot items after removing them from the oven. The hot things that shouldn’t come into contact with your quartz kitchen countertops NC are: frying pans, crock pots, griddles, roaster ovens, and heat lamps.

How Do You Clean Kitchen Countertops

To get rid of bacteria and keep your kitchen countertops looking spectacular, you have to clean them. Wondering how do you clean kitchen countertops? There is no one way to do it as different countertop materials have different cleaning methods. Some of the ways to clean these materials include:

Cleaning granite and marble countertops

Besides being one of the most popular countertop materials, they also share the same cleaning regimen. You need water, baking soda, tape, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and plastic wrap to clean the countertops.

You need to use warm water and mild dish soap, then follow up with a microfiber towel to shine the countertops. As a rule of thumb, avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners that will strip the sealer and etch the stone, exposing the countertop to stains.

Are there stains on the countertops? Use a baking soda and water paste to remove the oil-based stains. If the stains are water-based, remove them using hydrogen peroxide paste.

Apply the paste on the countertop, then cover it with plastic wrap. Tape down the edges, then let the paste sit on the stained area overnight.

The following morning, rinse off the paste. If the stain is still there, repeat the process until it goes away.

You should note that the paste can sometimes affect the color or the finish of the stone. To ensure this doesn’t happen to your countertops, spot test the paste before applying it to a large area.

To protect the countertops from stains, seal them regularly. As a bare minimum, seal them at least once every year.

How to clean wood countertops

To clean wood countertops, you need: distilled white vinegar, warm water, lemon, salt, spatula, nonabrasive cleaner, spatula, and microfiber cloths.

For spectacular-looking wooden countertops, clean them daily with a homemade mix of warm water with a splay of distilled white vinegar or a non-abrasive cleaner.

Before cleaning, always get rid of any food residues using a scraper or metal pastry. Once the countertops are clean, wipe them, so they are completely dry.

If there are any stains on the countertops, remove them using a lemon. Cut a lemon in half, then sprinkle salt directly on the stain. You should then use the lemon half to rub in the salt then once you are done, clean off the salt and lemon juice with water and vinegar.

While it might sound weird, you need to seal your solid wood countertops with food-grade oil or wax. This is to prevent the countertops from warping and cracking.

Cleaning laminate countertops

To effectively clean laminate countertops, you need: baking soda, water, mild household cleaner, and microfiber cloths. Cleaning the countertops is easy as all you need to do is clean the surfaces with a clean cotton cloth with water and a mild liquid detergent.

Are there stains on the countertops? Remove them using a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, then let it sit for five minutes, after which you should rinse it off with a soft cloth.

You should note that baking soda is a mild abrasive, so don’t scrub it when cleaning. The stain should go away on the first try, but repeat the process if it doesn’t.

Unlike the other countertop materials, you don’t need to seal the countertops, but this doesn’t mean they are invisible. To protect your surfaces, use cutting boards and trivets to avoid burns and scratches.

Cleaning stainless steel countertops

These countertops are popular in commercial kitchens, but if you are one of the unique people that have them in your home, you still need to keep them in top shape.

Unlike granite kitchen countertops Raleigh, these countertops require the bare minimum to keep them spotless. All you need is to regularly wipe them down with soap and water.

To keep off scratches and eliminate smudges and streaks, use a microfiber towel, and cleaner especially made for stainless steel, to buff them out.

Although the countertops are tough, avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads as they can scratch the surface.

You should note that with poor care, stainless steel can develop unsightly stains. To get rid of them, mix a paste of dish soap and baking soda. Use a soft cloth to rub in the direction of the grain.