Care & Maintenance of Your Solid Surface Countertop
Your new granite or marble countertop brings both durability and a refined finish to your space. Natural stone is one of the most practical and long lasting materials you can choose, but like any high quality surface, it benefits from proper care over time.
Maintaining your countertop goes beyond installation. With the right care, your stone surface will continue to perform and look its best for years to come.
While granite and marble are both natural stones, they each have unique properties and require slightly different maintenance routines. Understanding those differences is key to protecting your investment and preserving the natural beauty of your countertop.
Caring for Marble
Marble is a timeless natural stone that brings a soft, elegant look to any space. Formed from limestone under heat and pressure, each slab features unique veining and variation that never goes out of style.
Because marble is softer than granite, it requires a bit more attention to maintain its appearance over time. It is more prone to etching, scratching, and staining, especially from acidic substances. That means common household cleaners like vinegar or harsh kitchen and bathroom products should be avoided, as they can damage the surface.
For everyday care, warm water and a soft cloth are usually all you need. For a deeper clean, use a cleaner specifically made for marble. If needed, certain spot treatments can be used depending on the stone, such as acetone for darker marble or hydrogen peroxide for lighter surfaces. A diluted ammonia solution can also be used carefully. After cleaning, it’s best to dry the surface with a soft cloth rather than letting it air dry to help prevent water spots.
To help protect your countertop, marble should be resealed periodically. As a naturally porous material, the sealer will wear down over time. While sealing won’t make the surface stain-proof, it will provide added resistance and help maintain the beauty of the stone for longer.
Caring for Granite
Granite is a durable and versatile natural stone that offers both performance and visual appeal. Formed deep within the earth, its slow cooling process creates a dense surface with subtle crystal patterns that give it a natural depth and slight shimmer.
While it can offer a similar look to marble, granite is significantly harder and more resistant to everyday wear. It holds up well to heat, scratches, and general use, making it a great choice for busy kitchens. Its appearance typically features a more speckled pattern, though some styles can mimic the look of marble for those who prefer that aesthetic.
Even with its durability, proper care is still important. Small abrasive particles like dirt or sand can wear down the surface over time, so regular cleaning helps maintain its finish. For everyday use, warm water and a soft cloth are usually enough. If needed, a mild detergent or cleaner designed for natural stone can be used. It’s best to avoid harsh or acidic cleaners, as well as products like ammonia that can dull the surface.
To keep granite looking its best, periodic sealing is recommended. Sealing helps protect against moisture and staining, especially in high use areas like kitchens. Depending on use, this may be done every few years or more frequently for heavily used surfaces.
Countertop Tip: Polished finishes tend to show fingerprints and smudges more easily, while honed or leathered finishes offer a more matte, low-maintenance appearance.
Proper care is the key to keeping your natural stone countertops looking their best for years to come. Both granite and marble offer long lasting durability and timeless style, but like any natural material, they benefit from consistent maintenance.
By following the right care practices, you can protect your investment, maintain the finish, and enjoy the natural beauty of your countertops every day.
Submitted by: Blue Mountain Woodworking, Inc.