QUARTZ

Man-made Quartz is easy to maintain with few simple steps

• Quartz can be cleaned with soft sponge and warm water .
• For more substantial cleaning or greasy spots PH neutral liquid cleaners such as Mr. Clean, 409, Simple Green or Fantastic are recommended .
• If there are stains that will not disappear Bon Ami, Barkeepers Friend or Soft Scrub products without bleach can be used first to a wetted sponge or dishcloth, and then applied to the countertop surface. Please note that an aggressive use of more abrasive non-chemical cleaners can result in the dulling of the quartz surface.
• Rubbing alcohol solution, 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol or a Lysol disinfectant spray are recommended cleaners for the countertops.
• Sponges which contain aluminum oxide (the same abrasive in sand paper) are not recommended for cleaning as they may produce dull finish.
• Damage or discoloration of the surface of quartz may arise from the use of drain cleaners, paint strippers, acetone or products containing hydrofluoric acid, ammonia, methylene chloride, trichloroethylene or any product with a very high or very low PH.
• Natural stone products which have porous surfaces must be sealed with a sealer. Quartz does not have to be sealed because it is non-porous, therefore any sealer applied will not penetrate beyond the surface of the material. 
• It is recommended to use a trivet or hot pad between quartz and crock pots, deep fryers, hot pots, pans or electric skillets. Sustained heating may cause countertop to crack due to thermal expansion. It is not covered under manufacture warranty.
• Quartz countertops come with different finishes such as brushed, honed, concrete or polished. The enhanced surface texture may show more markings when compared to polished finish. All of them require daily cleaning with approved cleaning agents. 

Congratulations on using dependable granite for your project! 

There's a reason granite is popular countertop material. It's beautiful, strong, and gives your kitchen  a much-needed update. However, it takes a little work to keep them beautiful.

• It is not recommended to use abrasive scrubbers or steel wool on granite. It can scratch the finish and make your countertops look dull. Soft microfiber towel or a wrung-out sponge are best ways to clean granite.
• Products such as Windex, vinegar, bleach, or lemon juice are great for streak-free windows or stubborn bathroom stains but they don't properly clean your granite countertops and shouldn't be used.
• Wiping down your countertops with proper cleaners will be enough to protect you from harmful bacteria.
• Specially formulated product like GranQuartz 111M Kitchen and Counter cleaner is ideal for all natural and engineered stone and ceramic kitchen tops, bathroom tops, wall tiles, as well as glass and plastic surfaces. 
• Typically granite countertops come with a layer of sealant on. In case if sealant is needed Stone Pro Ultimate Pro Granite Sealer and Dense Stone Sealer. It acts as a barrier from oil and water-based stain.
• The sealant won't last as long as the granite. A coat of sealant typically lasts two to five years, depending on your cleaning habits and how much you use your countertops.
• You can either do it yourself with a sealant kit or hire a professional. In order to check if the sealant still provides protection, put few drops of water on the counter. If the sealant still works, it should bead up. If the water soaks in, it's time for a new coat of sealant.
• Cleaning granite countertops can be a breeze if you have the right products and knowledge. Once you come up with a cleaning routine, caring for your countertops will become second nature.

Granite countertops are durable and luxurious, but they are an investment. Knowing how to maintain your counters will keep them looking beautiful for years to come.

Congratulations on the using timeless marble for your project!

Although marble is a beautiful and durable stone surface for countertops, it takes extra care for cleaning and maintenance. It is composed of calcium carbonate, which makes it susceptible to etching by any acids. Marble is softer and more porous than granite and as a result, you may see more scratches, cracks, stains, and even dulling of the shine.

• Drinks such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, sodas, coffee, wine, fruit juice, and even vinegar will damage marble. Spills must be cleaned immediately. Protective sheet, such as silicone or plastic or a large cutting board are good ideas while working on a marble countertop. 
• Marble is tolerant of hot pot and pans, but you should always protect it with a trivet. Use placemats and coasters under plates and glasses when serving on a marble countertop. Immediately after each meal, clean the countertop before you go on to other tasks.
• Dust at least once a week with a soft microfiber cloth. For wet cleaning, use a damp cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner designed for stone. Check with your countertop company for their recommendations. It is common to use mild dish soap and water. You can dry the countertop with a soft towel.
• Do not use regular cleaning products that can etch the stone surface over time. Products that include vinegar, bleach, ammonia, lemon juice, orange, or other citrus foods can damage marble. Never use abrasive cleaners that will damage and dull the finish. 
• Seal the countertops regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. Reseal it when water fails to bead up when it splashes on the surface. Sealing will help prevent stains and damage. Some marble surfaces that do not need sealing. 
• For mild etching, look for a marble polishing powder that is approved for that use and follow the directions. Stains will need to be dealt with according to what caused the stain. A baking soda poultice is a general solution for many stains. Mix baking soda with a little water to achieve viscosity of peanut butter.  Spread it on the stain, and cover it with plastic and blue tape. After 12-24 hours gently remove the paste and wipe the area with a damp cloth. 

Congratulations on choosing natural soapstone for your project!  

There are a few steps to take after your new countertop is installed. Wait about 24 hours to let any dust residue settle. Next, brush off the surface and apply a coat of mineral oil using a clean rag. There’s no need to let it sit - soapstone is nonporous, so the oil won’t sink in. Once your countertop is evenly coated - that is, the same dark charcoal color all over—you can wipe away any excess oil with a clean rag or paper towel.

• For the first few months, your new countertop should be oiled about once a week. After that, it’ll depend on how much you use the kitchen and how often you clean the countertop (which removes the oil). 
• You’ll find your own pattern The mineral oil will come off faster for people who cook every day, compared to someone who eats out regularly. The average homeowner adds oil about once a month or every two to three months. 
• Mostly, it depends on how dark you want the stone to be. Un-oiled soapstone is a light gray, while oil brings out a rich black shade. What’s your preference?”
• If you notice that water isn’t beading on the surface, it’s probably time to reapply oil.
• Since soapstone is nonporous, it resists bacteria and doesn’t stain. It’s chemically neutral, which means that acidic foods like lemon juice won’t cause blemishes or the etching you get with marble. Usually, all you need to clean it is a sponge dipped in soapy water. In order to clean food residue, feel free to use an abrasive cleanser such as Ajax.
• Soapstone is softer when compared to granite and it is possible to scratch the surface or nick an edge. If you see a small scratch, just rub the sandpaper over the area to even it out. A fairly coarse 60-80 grit sandpaper will be sufficient but a worn piece of 60-80 grit sandpaper will be more gentle than a new one. 

 Congratulations on the using innovative porcelain for your project! 

Porcelain is becoming increasingly popular. Not only are they beautiful, but they durable and require low maintenance. 

• These countertops do not have pores like other natural stones, but they still need to be cleaned to remove bacteria sitting on the top.
• Damp cloth and warm water are best to clean the surface after using it. Porcelain is stain-resistant, but when needed, you can use ammonia-based cleaning products. Acidic liquids should be cleaned  right away because they may degrade the sealant or cause discoloration. Consistent cleaning will prolong porcelain countertop amazing appearance. 
• Scuffs or stubborn marks can happen, but porcelain is stain and scratch resistance, so you can remove them. Use a sponge with a stain remover or a magic eraser to remove any marks. 

If you are in love with the simple maintenance steps for your porcelain countertops, make the switch. They come in a variety of styles and colors perfect for any home or business. Contact us to see our inventory and get some help choosing your perfect stone countertop. We handle the process from start to finish and we can’t wait to help you begin planning your new project!