Countertop Care

Granite Care

  • Granite is a natural stone which means it is porous and does require a seal to keep it shiny and stain resistant.
  • Be sure that you clean your new granite countertops once a month with a granite cleaner such as 3-in-1 spray cleaner that was provided with your installation. This cleaner will help maintain the seal on your granite.
  • Once a year perform a water drop test. Simply drop some water onto a highly used part of your countertop and leave it for approximately 30 minutes. If the water seeps in it is time to reseal your countertops, if the water stays on top of the countertop your seal is still intact. Resealing kits can be purchased at various hardware stores.
  • Please note that not all people reseal granite and many continue to be happy with their countertops.
  • Do not place hot pots and pans on your countertop as it may cause cracking.
  • Do not cut on your countertop as small scratches may occur.
  • Do not use abrasive cleaners.
  • Clean up spills as soon as possible in order to reduce the risk of staining. Products such as red wine and cooking oil may stain if prolonged exposure is allowed.

Laminate Care

Daily cleaning should be done with a soft cloth using a mild dishwashing liquid and warm water.

  • Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads as they may scratch the surface damaging both its beauty and stain resistance. You should also stay away from cleaners that contain acid, alkali, or sodium hypochlorite. Examples of cleaners to avoid are oven, metal, drain, and ceramic cook-top cleaners as well as coffeepot cleaners, chlorine bleach, and rust and lime scale removers.
  • Cleaning products that are safe to use include Countertop Magic, DOW Bathroom Cleaner with Bubbles, Fantastic, Formula 409, Glass Plus, Lysol, Lestoil, Mr. Clean, Pine-Sol, Top Job, and Windex.
  • Knives or other sharp utensils may cut or scratch the laminate surface.  Be sure to always use a cutting board when working with such items.
  • Heavy blows from a hammer or meat tenderizer may crack or gouge the surface.  A chopping block is recommended for these applications.
  • Hot pans or activated electrical appliances should not be placed on laminated surfaces.  Always use protective insulating pads.
  • Ensure that the range surface is above the deck of the countertop; this will protect your counter against heat deflection.
  • Do not allow water to stand on any joint.  Water or steam may cause swelling of the joints, and is not covered under warranty.