NATURAL STONE (GRANITE AND MARBLE) COUNTERTOPS

 

In recent years natural stone products have become a popular choice for countertops.  There are many colour choices available, and every slab is unique in its colour, shading and veining characteristics, adding to the natural beauty of the product.  It is important to remember that natural stone is exactly what it says it is?natural, and may have pitting or fissures.  A new natural stone countertop is a real investment and a consumer needs to learn how to properly care for their new countertop so that it will provide you with many years of lasting beauty.

 

Here are a few facts you should know when considering a Natural Stone product.

 

Facts About Natural Stone

• Natural stones:  granite, marble, slate, travertine, and limestone are purchased from couuntries around the world such as: Portugal, Spain, Africa, Brazil, India, Italy, and many more.
• Seams are visible in a granite countertop, they are fitted and glued using a colour matched epoxy adhesive.
• Granite slabs are available in both 2 cm (3/4") and 3 cm (1 ??) but in this area, 2 cm is most widely available.  When you are selecting your slab it is important to know which width you are looking for.
• When using 2 cm material, the edge is usually built up to 1?? so there is a seam in the edge. You also have the choice of using 2 cm with no build up or using 1 ?? thick material which gives you the thicker look with no edge build-up.
• Stone slabs vary in size.  Careful consideration should be taken during the design process as all seams are visible.  The fabricator reserves the right to positions seams as necessary.  If a client is concerned about seams, additional slabs may be required and this will affect the cost. 
• Natural stone has great variances in shading, texture and veining.  All of these differences add to the natural beauty of the product.    Marble, slate, travertine, and limestone are softer than granite; they are also more porous and are not recommended for kitchen countertop applications.
• Natural stone is highly resistant to cuts, but abrasive material can damage the surface. Use place mats under china, ceramics, silver, or any other object that may scratch the surface.       
• Stone in its natural state is porous and will absorb moisture and fluids. To protect against staining, all stone countertops are thoroughly sealed with a silicone impregnator before being installed. This helps to protect against water, oil, and other common fluids that can damage the stone.
• Common causes of staining and etching in stone includes: acid based foods, sauces, some beverages, such as red wine, as well as many common toiletries. Toothpaste, mouthwash, perfume, citrus fruits, acid based foods such as tomatoes or strawberries, oils, and red wine should not remain on the countertop for any length of time or they may cause permanent damage.
• Natural stone does need to be sealed periodically over the years to prevent staining.  This is generally every 3-5 years depending on the stone. Once water begins to soak into the countertop, it needs to be sealed.
• The shine on the stone is not caused by the sealer; the stone has been polished to that level of shine.            
• Stone can also be ?honed? which removes the shine and creates a matte finish. This may be pleasing to the eye, but does increase the likelihood of staining.

 

Care & Maintenance of Natural Stone

 

A new natural stone countertop is a real investment. With proper care, it will provide you with many years of lasting beauty.  Here are a few tips and guidelines to help you care for your new countertop to extend the life and beauty.

Clean your stone countertop regularly with mild soap and warm water. General purpose cleansers should not be used as they can damage your stone or strip away the sealer. These include products containing lemon, vinegar, or any other acid or ammonia based cleaners such as Windex®.  Do not use abrasive cleansers or pads as they can scratch the surface.  Products specially formulated for use on natural stone are available and recommended.  Products not specially formulated for use on stone should not be used as they may etch, discolour the surface, scratch the stone, or strip the sealer.

Do?s & Don?ts for Natural Stone

Do use coasters under glasses

Do use mats or trivet under hot dishes to protect surface

Do wipe up any spills immediately

Do use cleansers specially formulated for use on natural stone

Don?t place hot pots directly on countertop

Don?t use bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or other general purpose cleansers

Don?t use abrasive cleansers