Granite Countertops & Staining

Granite is formed from cooling magma under extremely high pressure beneath the earth's surface. Because it is such a hard crystalline rock, granite has a surface that is resistant to cuts, scratches, extreme temperatures, and most staining. Its durability and ease of cleaning are two of the more useful reasons for choosing a granite countertop. With heavy and repeated use, however, things like acids, abrasives, artificial food coloring, and blood can eventually take their toll on an improperly maintained countertop surface. There are easy steps that can be taken to prevent this damage so that a granite countertop will always look as new as the day you bought it.

The primary defense against staining for a granite countertop is properly sealing the surface at regular intervals according to the type of sealant and degree of usage. It's generally a good idea to have your granite countertop sealed twice a year, although many can now go longer. This prevents liquids and grime from entering the rock's pores. Sealant is easy to apply and can be done yourself in a couple hours. Sealing a granite countertop will ensure that it will last forever in addition to creating a smooth, sanitary surface on which to perform all the necessary kitchen duties.

Besides regularly applying and checking the wear on your sealant, the most important step for stain prevention is maintain a clean granite countertop. Since a sealed countertop will be non-porous and smooth, clean-up is especially easy and just requires rock cleaner, water, and a towel. While spills will not affect the granite directly, if they are left to seep into the sealant then stains become much more likely to occur. Be sure to clean up all spills quickly by using soap and water. This minimizes the chance that they permeate through the sealant and affect the granite directly.

There are certain foods and liquids that are more harmful to surfaces than others. Fresh meat, for example, can leave blood stains and unpleasant odors behind if left on a countertop even if it has been properly sealed. Use protective measures like a cutting board or tin foil when placing meat on the counter. Acids like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine can also possibly leave stains on granite countertops, particularly if it is light-colored if they are left to sit. When using any of these liquids make sure to wipe the countertop with soap and water afterwards. Cooking oil is the liquid most likely to stain a countertop if it is not properly sealed, as it can seep between the microscopic pores and stain from the inside out. As long as the granite is sealed, though, the chances of staining are slim.

Properly sealing and cleaning your granite countertop, along with diligence to protect it from more harmful products, will help to prevent stains from appearing on this already durable material. It is also important to keep in mind that not all granites are alike in color or texture. Some slabs, for example, may be more susceptible to staining than other depending on the size of their pores. If you know that you will be putting the countertop through abuse, ask a kitchen remodeler about their opinion on various granite pieces' resistance to stains.

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