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.