Always use a cutting board when cutting, chopping, etc. Protect the counter from heat from extremely hot pans; if you cannot put your hand on it, do not put it on the counter. Do not use countertops as ironing boards and keep cigarettes in an ashtray.
Cleaners - Avoid abrasive cleaners that will damage the luster of the surface.
Mats - Rubber drain mats can trap moisture beneath them causing the laminated plastic to warp and blister. Dry the surface as needed.
Caulking - The caulking around the edge of your countertops and between the countertops and the sink may shrink, leaving a slight gap. Refer to “Caulking” in this section for maintenance hints for this condition.
Granite Granite is an extremely durable material, and when properly cared for, will remain highly polished, unmarked, and as beautiful as the day it was installed. We recommend the following methods of caring for your new natural stone countertops.
Routine Care - Granite should be cleaned with water and a non-abrasive, mild, pH neutral soap such as Dawn, Ivory, or Palmolive. For best results and to help prevent streaking, apply with a soft cloth and wipe clean with a new cloth. A polishing paste is an optional material used to restore the shine to the stone surface.
Sealing – Becker Communities seals all granites with a silicone impregnator before or during installation of the granite. This sealant penetrates the material and creates a barrier against most of the tiny openings present in stone. The sealant will not change the color of polished granite. We recommend that all granites be resealed every 1-2 years and this is the homeowner’s responsibility.
Staining - While granite is highly resistant to staining, substances such as oil, grease, or any acidic or pigmented material can stain some granite if not removed immediately. Wiping spills of any kind quickly will prevent potential staining or damage to your countertops. Using paper towels or other disposable cloths instead of a sponge or rag during regular cleansing will help reduce the spread of remnant oil, acid, or bacteria.
If a stain does occur there are some do-it-yourself methods that can help pull the stain out. Bleach is a wonderful product to use with granite; it will not discolor the stone, but it can pull out stains. Pour bleach directly on the stain and let it set overnight. Place a piece of plastic wrap on top of the bleach to keep it wet and to protect clothing and other products. It may take more than one application of bleach to remove the stain. Special poultices are also available to assist with the removal of stains.
Substances to Avoid - While some substances may stain granite if left on the surface for a period of time, such as cooking grease, lemon juice, or wine, there are some materials that are more dangerous to your countertops and should be avoided completely. Avoid any use of certain chemicals; paint removers, hydrochloric acid, ammonia, Windex, and degreasers. The use of these products will cause the polish to fade, or etch. Plumber’s putty will permanently stain granite; be sure to ask your plumber to refrain from using it near your countertops.
Bacteria Growth - With normal cleansing, the sealant applied by Becker Communities will greatly minimize any occurrence of bacteria growth in the stone. However, as with any porous material, including wood, plastic, and solid surface materials, bacteria growth is possible. It is recommended that countertops be disinfected periodically, or after coming in contact with any potentially harmful substance such as eggs, raw meats, or other bacteria prone foods. To disinfect, wipe the countertop with a soft cloth and a 50% bleach and water solution.
Scratching and Chipping - Under normal use, granite countertops should not scratch or chip. It is safe to cut, chop, and slice on your countertop. However, dragging very heavy objects, such as a cast iron pan or toolbox that has grit, dirt, or sand on its bottom may cause the granite to scratch. In most cases, scratches are difficult to see and cosmetic repairs can easily be made by rubbing color matched furniture wax into the scratch. Individual granites have different resistances to scratching.
If chipping does occur, it will probably only happen on a straight edge in high use areas. Pencil Round edges reduce the chance of chipping and are recommended for all exposed edges, especially around sinks and cooktops. If a straight edge is chipped, it can either be repaired by “easing off” the sharp edges or by changing the style of the edge. Or, the chip can be repaired with Akemi, although the repair may be noticeable, depending on the color and markings of the individual granite.
