Granite & Quartz Information and Care Guide Granite

Granite & Quartz Information and Care Guide
Granite
Granite is the most popular natural stone and countertop material due to its versatility and superior performance
characteristics. It is one of the hardest and strongest materials in nature, originating from the earth's core as liquid
magma. Extreme heat and pressure forged the quartz, mica, feldspar and other minerals into a very dense structure
millions of years ago. Over time, additional heat and pressure created the fascinating combinations of colour and pattern
creating a surface that is truly unique.
Surface patterns typically will have a flecked or pebbled appearance which can vary in size, shape and density of the
pattern depending on the particular mix of quartz, crystals and minerals that make up the stone. The pattern can be highly
structured offering a uniform appearance over the entire countertop or the pattern may change continually, without
repetition, called "movement". Various textures are also available such as polished, honed and antiqued finishes.
Basic Cleaning and Maintenance
Wipe up any spills on the countertops within a reasonable amount of time and do not let liquid sit overnight. It is
important to note that granite is most prone to staining by oil. Be careful not to place any pots or frying pans with oil
traces on the bottom on countertop surface. Blot oil and acid spills as they happen and clean with a soapy cloth, using
mild dish soap and hot water only. Some stones, especially darker colours, require surface towel drying after washing to
avoid showing streaks. The use of vinegar, ammonia, lemon, orange, household chemicals, acid or solvents may damage
the surface or granite sealer over time. To remove stubborn sticky materials, like glue, or any product that has hardened,
use a razor blade tip or 000 fine grade steel wool. To remove an oil stain use a general poultice made of baby or baking
powder and acetone or water. The paste should be the consistency of toothpaste. First, moisten the surface of the granite
with some water. Then apply the poultice paste to the granite surface about a ½” thick. Tape plastic sheeting over the
area and allow sitting for 48 hours. Remove the poultice with a spatula and rinse the cleansed area with clean water, wipe
off excess water and allow the surface to dry.
Granite tends to attract soap scum. Rinse with hot clean water on a regular basis and use a paper towel to dry
Sealing
Use a wipe on, wipe off procedure, similar to how you might clean any countertop on a daily basis. Frequency of granite
sealer application for your particular stone is dependent on the density. It is recommended that sealer be re-applied
annually or even more often to fully maintain luminosity and avoid stains. It is time definitely time to reseal your
countertop if: water sitting on your countertop makes that area look slightly darker showing the water is penetrating into
the stone. This spot will dissipate after a few hours or less. All countertops will get a courtesy coat of sealer before
installation, but some stones will require a few extra coats right after installation. Don't be alarmed if some of the lighter
coloured stones require this extra application. Sealers for natural stone can be purchased from most home improvement
stores or at our showroom.
Scratches/chips
Chips are most often caused by banging something on the countertop. Take care when you handle heavy pots and pans
around your granite profiles as these are the most prone to chipping. If a chip does occur and you find the piece that
chipped out, hold on to it as most often the piece can be epoxied back into place. Cutting directly on granite surface will
not scratch the stone, although repeated cutting will dull knives making a chopping board preferable.
Heat
Granite is naturally a very strong element that is scratch and cut-resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures.
However, the granite that is used in kitchen countertops can get affected by the high temperature in hot pans. Pots and
pans are usually made of high-grade steel or metal, and they are very good head conductors. When placed on top of a
granite countertop, hot pots and pans can damage its surface. If this is done on a regular basis, the granite countertop can
give in to the high temperature and get black burn marks or gashes.
Tips on how to protect granite countertops from hot pans

Avoid placing hot pans directly on your granite countertop. Despite granite's natural ability to withstand
extreme temperatures, your granite countertop is not impervious to heat. When using hot pans, place protective
covering on top of your granite countertop before putting them down. You can use everyday kitchen accessories
like an extra tray or a cutting board to protect you granite countertop from getting hot pan burns and marks.

Allow hot pans to cool before placing them directly on your granite countertop. If placing hot pans on your
granite countertop is unavoidable, allow them to cool down first. Be sure to wipe their undersides to remove any
black or burn marks. Electric stoves normally do not leave any black marks on the bottoms of hot pans, but be
sure to wipe them just the same.
Quartz
Cleaning
Simply wipe with warm water and soap, using a damp cloth or paper towel. If needed, use non-abrasive, household
cleaners such as Oxy-Gel Spray. DO NOT use Vim Cream, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or abrasive pads. To remove adhered
material such as: food or nail polish, first scrape away the excess material with a plastic putty knife & then clean the
surface with a damp cloth to remove marks or any residual dirt.
Sealing
The high gloss finish and non-porous nature provide maximum resistance to staining – no sealing is required, but it is not
warranted against stains. Please refer to the manufactures warranty.
Scratches/chips
Quartz is resistant to cracks, chips, scratches & stains. However, like most materials, excessive force and/or pressure from
objects can damage the surface.
Heat
Quartz is not affected by heat below 400 degrees Fahrenheit but it is not advised to place hot pans directly on the
material. Trivets are recommended when using cooking units such as electric frying pans, crock pots or roaster ovens.