Ever been shopping for countertops but not know which is the best for your family? That's exactly why we wanted to create this guide to help you navigate how to choose and care for your future countertops in your dream kitchen!
Investing in granite, quartz, or marble countertops adds timeless beauty and elegance to your kitchen. To ensure these natural stone surfaces retain their luster for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. Each material has its unique characteristics, and understanding how to care for them will help you preserve their natural beauty.
Granite Countertops:
Porous Information: Granite is a porous stone, meaning it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. To protect your granite countertops, it's crucial to apply a high-quality granite sealer regularly. At Husky Builders, we always seal the first year for you. After that, if your counters are honed, you'll want to reseal every 1-3 years and if they have a gloss finish, you can plan to reseal them every 3-5 years for best protection and longevity.
How to Seal: Sealing granite is a simple process. Clean the surface thoroughly, apply the sealer evenly, and let it penetrate the stone for the recommended time. Wipe off any excess sealer, and your granite will be well-protected against spills.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Granite is highly resistant to heat, making it an ideal choice for kitchen countertops. It also resists scratches and is relatively low-maintenance.
Cons: Despite its durability, granite can be susceptible to acidic substances, such as citrus juices and vinegar. Promptly clean up spills to prevent potential damage.
Quartz Countertops:
Porous Information: Quartz countertops are engineered stone surfaces that are non-porous, meaning they are highly resistant to stains and bacteria. This makes quartz an excellent choice for kitchens with small children.
How to Seal: Unlike natural stones, quartz countertops do not require sealing. Their non-porous nature eliminates the need for regular maintenance, making them a hassle-free option for homeowners.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: Quartz is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, providing versatile design options.
Cons: While quartz is generally heat-resistant, extreme temperature changes can cause thermal shock. Avoid placing hot pans or tools directly on the surface, and always use trivets or hot pads.
Marble Countertops:
Porous Information: Marble is a classic and luxurious choice but is more porous than granite. It requires regular sealing to protect it from staining, especially in high-traffic areas.
How to Seal: To maintain marble countertops, apply a high-quality marble sealer every 3-6 months. Clean the surface thoroughly before sealing to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Pros and Cons: Pros: Marble countertops bring unparalleled elegance to your kitchen. They are also naturally cool, making them ideal for baking and pastry preparation- think your local creamery Marble Slab.
Cons: Marble is more prone to scratches and stains compared to granite and quartz. Acidic substances can etch the surface, so it's crucial to wipe up spills promptly. However some marble surfaces are more hard than others, so check with your supplier or fabricator for details.
In conclusion, caring for your granite, quartz, and marble countertops involves understanding their unique characteristics and taking the appropriate measures. Regular cleaning, sealing, and avoiding exposure to potential harm will help you enjoy the beauty of these natural stone surfaces for years to come.
Ready to get started? Husky Builders is here to assist you. Contact us today to schedule your remodel or build, and get your business ready for customers.
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We are so grateful for the opportunity to educate and empower our clients. And, even more thankful to get to serve them from design to completion in residential and commercial needs for new construction and remodeling. If you're looking for a contractor, contact us for a quote.
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