As an industry leader in custom stone countertops, we at Anderson Granite & Marble Shop of Greenwood understand that one of the biggest investments in your home is a high-quality stone countertop. Whether you’ve chosen sleek, polished custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, or luxurious marble, these surfaces can dramatically elevate your home’s aesthetic and value. However, the key to maintaining their beauty and durability lies in proper care. If you take the right steps to care for your stone countertops, they can last a lifetime, staying as beautiful as the day they were installed.

Here, we share five essential secrets that will help you maintain the elegance and functionality of your custom granite countertops and other stone surfaces, keeping them in perfect condition for many years to come.

Secret 1: Clean Regularly, but Carefully

One of the most fundamental steps in maintaining your custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, is regular cleaning. However, it’s important to know the proper cleaning methods to ensure you’re not damaging the surface. We recommend using a mild dish soap or pH-neutral cleaner mixed with warm water. The key here is avoiding any harsh chemicals, as these can strip away the protective sealant on your countertops over time.

When cleaning, always use a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface. Remember, granite, marble, and quartz are all durable, but a bit of caution goes a long way. A microfiber cloth is often a great option because it won’t scratch the surface while it gently removes dirt and oils. After cleaning, always dry the countertop with a soft cloth to avoid any water spots.

At Anderson Granite & Marble Shop of Greenwood, we recommend establishing a regular cleaning routine, ideally once a day or after every cooking session, to prevent any food residue from drying or becoming too difficult to remove.

Secret 2: Seal Your Stone Countertops Regularly

Sealing is an essential step for ensuring that your custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, maintain their longevity. While granite is naturally a durable stone, it is still porous, and moisture can seep into the surface if it’s not properly sealed. Without proper sealing, stains from oils, wine, or other acidic liquids could penetrate and leave permanent marks.

How often should you seal your countertops? We recommend having your granite countertops sealed at least once a year, but if you use your kitchen heavily, you may want to apply a new coat of sealant every 6-12 months. Some stone types, like marble and limestone, are even more porous and might require more frequent sealing.

If you’re unsure whether your stone countertop needs resealing, a simple test can help. Place a small amount of water on the surface and let it sit for about 10 minutes. If the water darkens the stone or gets absorbed, it’s time to reseal.

Secret 3: Protect Against Heat Damage

It’s important to remember that custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, though heat-resistant, are not heat-proof. While granite is more resistant to heat than marble or quartz, it’s still a good practice to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot pots, pans, or baking dishes on the countertop.

The intense heat from direct contact with a hot pan can cause thermal shock, which may lead to cracking or discoloration over time. To keep your custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, looking pristine, always use trivets, cutting boards, or heat-resistant mats whenever you’re working with hot items.

Additionally, avoid placing heavy pots and pans directly on your countertop, as the weight and heat combined can put stress on the stone. A simple preventative measure like a trivet can save you from future repairs and keep your granite looking flawless.

Secret 4: Prevent Scratches and Chips

While granite is a tough material, it’s not impervious to damage. To keep your custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, looking their best, always use a cutting board when chopping, slicing, or dicing food. Granite can dull your knives, and while it might seem indestructible, repeated cutting on the stone can cause scratches, chips, and even cracks over time.

It’s a good practice to use cutting boards made from wood, bamboo, or plastic to protect your countertops from damage. Even though granite is relatively scratch-resistant compared to softer stones, the occasional heavy impact or cutting motion can cause chips, which are difficult to repair.

Additionally, avoid placing any heavy or sharp objects on the countertop, such as large kitchen appliances, unless you’re certain they’re placed with enough protection to avoid causing damage.

Secret 5: Address Spills Quickly and Effectively

Spills happen in the kitchen, but when it comes to custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, it’s important to address them quickly. While granite is more resistant to stains than marble, it’s still a good idea to wipe up any liquid spills immediately to avoid the risk of staining.

Acidic substances, like vinegar, citrus juice, wine, or coffee, are particularly harmful to stone surfaces. These can eat away at the sealant or even the stone itself if left for too long. Be sure to clean up any spills within a few minutes and give special attention to high-risk areas around sinks and cooktops.

For cleaning up spills, blot the area with a soft cloth or paper towel, don’t wipe it, as this can spread the stain. Afterward, clean the area with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner and dry it completely with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.

Maintaining custom granite countertops in McCormick, SC, is all about proper care, regular maintenance, and being mindful of the materials you use. With a bit of attention, your countertops can continue to look as beautiful as the day they were installed, adding elegance and functionality to your kitchen or bathroom for years to come.

At Anderson Granite & Marble Shop of Greenwood, we pride ourselves on helping our clients create stunning, durable spaces. Whether you’re installing new countertops or renovating an existing kitchen or bathroom, we’re here to guide you through the process from sketch to reality. We offer the expertise to help you select, install, and care for your stone countertops, ensuring they remain beautiful for the long term.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Anderson Granite & Marble Shop of Greenwood, serving McCormick, SC, and the surrounding areas, for expert advice and high-quality stone countertops. With the right care, your custom stone countertops will continue to impress and serve you for many years to come.