Granite is one of the most functional building materials in the world. In many countries, the usage of the material in kitchens is showing an upward trend, whereas here in Goa, granite has always been a popular pick. That’s because the uniqueness of granite is admired, it is durable and available in plenty of colours, and the visual appeal it lends to the kitchen with its unique patterns, swirls, and flecks subtly add to kitchen aesthetics. Additionally, granite countertop can handle wear and tear and is scratch-proof, water and heat resistant.
Yet another quality that makes granite special is that it requires little maintenance. To keep your granite countertop in Goa shiny and spotless, simply follow these easy tips.
It can be cleaned with a soft microfiber cloth on a daily basis to prevent dust from gathering and with a wet cloth every few days. In case something spills on the countertop you can use an absorbent sponge or wipe.
Avoid harsh chemicals and soap that has granules because these could damage the surface. If oil has spilled and stained your granite surface top, try removing it with either flour or baking soda and dish soap. For stubborn stains, you can use steel wool or a Scotch-Brite that won’t scratch the surface. Avoid using vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or general-purpose cleaners (like bathroom cleaners or tile cleaners) to clean your countertop.
If the counter is sealed well then basic cleaning will suffice. An annual sealing will need to be done to maintain the granite countertop and keep it shiny. However, not all granite needs sealing.
To test if your counter needs sealing, pour a tablespoon of tap water on the counter and let it sit for a few minutes. Then wipe away the water with a dry cloth. If the stone is darker in colour, your countertop could use some sealer, whereas if the colour hasn’t changed, the stone is sealed well enough.
Always use a cutting board while chopping vegetables and meats. Cutting directly on the countertop will dull or damage your knife and may scratch your countertop. Use coasters beneath glasses and mugs, especially if they contain citrus juices, caffeine, and alcohol, and in case of spills, blot the liquid immediately. You must also always use a trivet or a hot pad to prevent your countertop from getting damaged by hot pots and pans.
Try to avoid standing on your countertop to reach for something as well as kneeling, sitting, or adding very heavy pressure to the surface as doing so may cause the stone to crack. Avoid chipping the granite. This is infrequent but it can happen if you bang something into the countertop or drop heavy utensils on the countertop.
You may also like to read our blog post on Solid Surface Countertops – in case you do not wish to opt for real granite countertops in Goa, you can opt for this factory-made material that mimics granite perfectly! For those who’d like something more upscale, you might like to read our blog on Italian Marble and Indian Marble Countertops.
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