Granite, although one of the hardest natural stones, can scratch easily due to its crystalline structure. Granite is composed mostly of quartz, feldspar, and mica all of which vary in hardness. In general, quartz is the hardest component and feldspar is the least hard, making a scratch easier to occur on the softest part of granite.
Additionally, although granite is extremely hard, it is also quite brittle, meaning it can break when hit with a hard object. This could also make the granite more vulnerable to scratches. Scratches on granite can also occur when its surface is exposed to excessive pressure, or when it comes in contact with a hard material such as steel or glass.
It can also occur as a result of improper maintenance, such as when a person uses abrasive cleaning materials. To prevent granite from scratching, it is recommended to take proper care of the stone surface by sealing it regularly, and to never set hard objects on its surface.
How do you keep granite from scratching?
Granite is a tough and durable material, but it is not scratches-proof. To prevent scratches, it is important to keep the surface clean and to use mild detergents and cleaning agents designed specifically for use on granite.
A good rule of thumb is to use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths when cleaning granite surfaces, and avoid using any abrasive pads. Additionally, take care to avoid dropping heavy items directly onto granite countertops, as this can cause deep scratches.
When moving items across granite, use trivets or place mats. You should also use coasters to keep glasses and mugs off the surface to prevent rings and scratches. To further protect granite surfaces, you can use a sealant that is designed specifically for granite.
A sealant can help to protect the surface from damage. Sealing granite every year or two is recommended.
Can you take scratches out of granite?
Although granite is a very hard and durable stone, it can still be scratched. Fortunately, there are a few methods for removing scratches from granite.
The first is to use an abrasive pad like steel wool or a very fine sandpaper. You should always move in the same direction as the scratch and work in gentle circles to minimize any further damage. After you finish sanding, wipe the area with a damp cloth and use a polishing compound to give the granite a shine.
Another method for removing scratches from granite is to use liquids such as water and baking soda. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a teaspoon of water and apply it to the scratched area. Sprinkle some baking soda directly onto the scratch and use a damp cloth to rub it in.
Then, rinse off with water and buff it with a soft cloth.
For deeper scratches, you might need to use a paste made from water and flour. Combine the two ingredients and form a paste, then apply it to the scratched area. Allow the paste to sit for 30 minutes and then rinse off with water.
Finally, use a clean cloth to polish the granite.
If all else fails, you can always hire a professional to repair the scratches for you. A professional technician can use a few different methods to fix minor scratches in granite, but deep gouges may need more specialized attention that can be accurately and safely provided by a professional.
Do granite countertops scratch easily?
Granite countertops are made of a durable and hard material, so they generally don’t scratch easily. However, granite can be scratched by materials that are even harder such as quartz, steel, and diamond.
Regular day-to-day kitchen activities typically don’t cause scratches on granite countertops, but they can be more prone to scratches when cutting with a knife on the surface without a cutting board.
Objects such as diamond jewelry or pottery can also scratch granite countertops if it falls on the surface. To prevent granite from scratching, always use a cutting board and never put diamond jewelry or hard materials on or near the countertop surface.
What should you avoid with granite countertops?
When it comes to caring for granite countertops, there are a few things you should avoid. First of all, never use abrasive cleaners, such as scouring powder, steel wool, or other harsh abrasives as they will damage the surface of your granite.
Granite is a fairly brittle stone, so harsh or abrasive agents can easily chip or scratch the surface. It’s best to use a pH-neutral cleaner made specifically for stone when cleaning granite.
It’s also important to protect your granite countertops from severe temperature changes. For example, don’t place hot pans on the granite because they can cause the surface to crack or discolor. Additionally, be sure to wipe up any spills as quickly as possible so they don’t sit on the surface and cause staining.
Finally, try to avoid using harsh acidic substances as they can etch and discolor the stone. Always test any products on a small, inconspicuous area of your countertop before using on the entire surface.
Should you use vinegar on granite?
No, you should not use vinegar on granite as it is an acidic substance and can damage and etch the granite surface. Granite is a natural stone made up of quartz, feldspar, and mica, and vinegar is highly acidic which causes a chemical reaction on the granite surface.
In the worst case scenario, vinegar can actually eat away the granite, leaving permanent etches, discoloration and can even leave your granite porous and prone to staining. To clean granite, use a mild detergent mixed with warm water, then buff the surface dry with a soft cloth.
For tougher stains and general disinfecting, you can use rubbing alcohol or a solution of 75% isopropyl alcohol and 25% water. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia.
Does Magic Eraser damage granite?
No, Magic Eraser will not damage granite. Granite is a very durable material that is often used for countertops, floors, and other surfaces because it is extremely resistant to damage. Although Magic Eraser is a very abrasive cleaning tool, it does not have enough power to scratch or damage granite.
In fact, it can help to remove dirt and grime from granite surfaces without harming the stone.
Does Scotch Brite scratch granite?
No, Scotch Brite should not be used to clean granite. While Scotch Brite may seem like a good choice to scrub hard surfaces, it is actually too aggressive for many stone surfaces, including granite. The abrasive material within Scotch Brite is too aggressive and can cause scratching, dulling and even staining of the granite.
It is best to use a non-abrasive cleaning agent made specifically for granite and stone surfaces. These cleaning solutions are designed to effortlessly remove dirt, grime, fingerprints and more without harming the stone’s surface.
Additionally, wiping with a non-abrasive cloth such as cotton or microfiber can help protect the stone’s finish.
How often should you seal granite?
It is recommended to seal granite countertops every 1 to 2 years depending on the usage and amount of wear and tear the counters are exposed to. To ensure the granite is properly sealed it’s recommended to clean the counters at least twice a year with a granite cleaning solution.
Additionally, it is important to regularly assess the granite countertop and reseal it when the surface no longer repels liquids and oils. If a granite countertop has been un-sealed, it is important to use a high grade sealer to protect it against staining and any damage.
Can I use Clorox wipes on granite?
No, it’s not a good idea to use Clorox wipes on granite. This is because the ingredients in Clorox wipes can cause etching on granite, which can leave behind permanent dull spots in your stone. Additionally, the sanitizing properties of the Clorox wipes can strip the sealant from your granite and make it more susceptible to staining.
If you wish to clean your granite, use mild soap and water, along with a soft cloth or sponge. After you are finished, you can use a granite sealant to re-seal the stone. Granite is a beautiful surface, so take care of it properly to maintain its gloss and durability.
Which is better quartz or granite countertop?
The decision of which countertop option to choose is largely dependent on your individual preference; quartz and granite both offer unique benefits, and neither one is inherently “better” than the other.
Quartz is a man-made material composed of natural quartz and a resin and pigmented binder while granite is a completely natural stone. Both materials provide a beautiful and durable countertop option that can last a lifetime.
One major advantage of quartz is that it is nonporous, meaning that it is more resistant to staining and does not require regular sealing. Quartz also does not harbor bacteria or viruses, making it a great hygienic surface for food preparation.
Additionally, because quartz is an engineered material, it comes in a wide array of colors and patterns that can be blended and customized for a truly unique look.
Granite is a timeless classic due to its natural beauty, its durability, and its ability to hold up to heat, scratches, and wear. Unlike quartz, granite is a porous material, so it requires regular sealing every 1-3 years to keep its surface protected.
On the plus side, granite provides more of a one-of-a-kind look due to its unique veining and crystallization.
Ultimately, the best countertop option comes down to your individual preference and lifestyle. Quartz and granite both offer wonderful advantages and has the potential to add beauty to your home.
What do you put on granite to protect it?
To protect granite, you should clean the surface regularly with a stone cleaner specifically designed for cleaning granite. You should also use a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap to clean away dirt and debris.
After cleaning, you should then apply a stone sealer, which will help protect the surface from staining, absorption and etching caused by acidic foods, oils, and liquids. It is also important to use trivets or felt pads with all hot pots, pans and other heat-emitting objects.
Although granite is fairly durable and scratch-resistant, you should take care not to drop hard and heavy objects on it, as this can cause cracks and chips.
How do I protect my granite countertops?
To protect your granite countertops, there are a few simple steps you can take. First, you should use coasters for glasses and other items that can leak, as it can cause discoloration and staining of your granite.
You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning products on your granite, and instead, just use warm water and a mild dish soap or a pH neutral stone cleaner on the surface. Clean up any spills as soon as possible to reduce the risk of staining and damage.
Make sure to wipe and dry the countertop with a soft cloth, and never use steel wool, steel scrubbers, bleach, and other harsh cleaning agents. For additional protection, you may want to seal your granite countertops every 12-15 months, as this will help protect it from mildew, bacteria, and other contaminants.
Never cut directly on your granite countertops; instead, use a cutting board to preserve its beauty and integrity.
How do you seal and protect granite?
Sealing granite is the best way to ensure long-term protection from stains and damage to the surface, and it’s relatively simple to do. The first step is to clean the granite surface with a mild soap and water, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
For natural stone, using a sealer designed for that particular stone is recommended as it will seal and protect the surface without damaging the look or texture. You can apply the sealer using either a sponge or a roller and ensure that it has been evenly spread.
Once fully covered, allow the sealer to dry before touching it. For added protection, you can apply a second coat. Additionally, granite should be resealed every few years to ensure the surface is properly protected.
The best way to maintain and protect your granite surface is to clean and protect it regularly. Wipe down the countertop surface with a damp microfiber cloth and a mixture of water and mild detergent.
Clean up any spills quickly and avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, oils, or direct sunlight. For regular maintenance, a warm water rinse is all it needs. Once your granite is properly sealed and protected, it should remain in good condition for many years.
What products should not be used on granite?
When it comes to cleaning and caring for granite countertops, you should always avoid using abrasive cleaners and anything that contains acidic or alkaline ingredients such as bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or citrus-based products.
These cleaning products can damage and discolor your granite, causing permanent damage that cannot be reversed. Even products that are specifically designed for use on granite countertops should be used with caution, as these can cause temporary damage, such as dull areas and diminished shine.
Instead of products that contain harsh chemicals, mild dish soap and water is the safest and most recommended product to use on granite countertops. Always use a soft cloth or sponge when cleaning, and avoid harsh scouring pads, steel wool, or anything else that might cause scratches or etching.
Stains and spills should be treated right away using a blotting technique instead of wiping, as it can cause the stain to spread. For more serious stains, a poultice may be used to draw the stain out of the granite.
It’s recommended that you double-check with the craftsperson who installed your countertops before attempting this process.