Countertop Care & Maintenance

Understanding Different Countertop Materials

Choosing the right countertop material is essential for durability and aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

Natural Stone Countertops

• Granite – Durable, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant, but naturally porous. Requires sealing to prevent staining.

• Quartzite – Harder than granite and resistant to heat, but also porous and needs regular sealing. Natural fissures can appear but don’t affect performance.

• Marble – Luxurious with unique veining but softer and more porous than granite or quartzite. Prone to scratching, etching from acidic substances, and staining.

• Porous Nature & Fissures – Natural stone contains microscopic pores that can absorb liquids and may have fissures—naturally occurring hairline cracks. Some fissures are not visible until fabrication or installation, which can make the material unpredictable to work with. A waiver is required to proceed, acknowledging these inherent risks.

Engineered Countertops

• Quartz – Man-made with natural stone and resin, making it non-porous and stain-resistant. However, it is not heat-proof and can discolor under direct sunlight.

• Porcelain – Extremely durable, non-porous, and resistant to heat, scratches, and stains. However, it can be brittle and more challenging to fabricate due to its hardness.

Care & Maintenance After Installation

• Daily Cleaning – Use a mild soap with warm water and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Vinegar, bleach, and ammonia can damage natural stone and resin-based surfaces.

• Prevent Heat Damage – Use trivets and hot pads, especially for quartz.

• Sealing Natural Stone – Granite, quartzite, and marble need periodic sealing (every 6-12 months) to maintain protection.

• Prevent Scratches – Avoid cutting directly on the surface, especially for softer stones like marble.

Flooring Care & Maintenance

Types of Flooring & Characteristics

Wood Flooring

• Solid Hardwood – Natural beauty, durable, and can be refinished, but sensitive to moisture and scratches.

• Engineered Wood – More resistant to moisture than solid wood but cannot be refinished as many times.

Care Tips:

• Clean with a damp (not wet) microfiber mop and a wood-safe cleaner.

• Avoid excessive water or steam mops to prevent warping.

• Use furniture pads to prevent dents and scratches.

Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

• Water-resistant & durable – Great for high-traffic areas.

• Scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof – Heavy furniture and pet claws can cause damage.

Care Tips:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt buildup.

• Mop with mild soap and water (no wax or polish needed).

• Avoid dragging heavy furniture to prevent indentations.

Tile Flooring (Porcelain & Ceramic)

• Highly durable & water-resistant – Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.

• Grout maintenance – Grout lines can stain over time if not properly sealed.

Care Tips:

• Clean with a neutral pH cleaner or mild soap.

• Avoid harsh chemicals that can break down grout sealant.

• Use doormats to minimize dirt and grit that can scratch tiles.

By following these care and maintenance tips, you can extend the life and beauty of your countertops and flooring, ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come.