PROFESSIONAL STONE CARE
Beautiful countertops are one of the best parts about a stylized kitchen or bathroom. Whether you have granite, marble, or quartz, it is important to know the best ways to take care of them. Natural stone countertops provide your space with an elegant beauty and must be cared for properly to ensure they last a lifetime. For years, Arkadia Surfaces serving Annapolis, Severna Park and Arnold, MD has been your source for premium surfaces. If you have recently purchased a new countertop from Arkadia Surfaces, the best thing you can do is learn the proper methods for cleaning and maintenance. Each material has specific needs to ensure lasting quality.
MARBLE COUNTERTOPS
Marble countertops feature some of the most beautiful designs on the market, but this surface is relatively soft and fragile compared to granite or quartz. Marble must be taken care of extremely diligently, and only specific cleaners should be used. Unlike other surfaces, marble will scratch very easily and absorb stains that are not cleaned up quickly. It is important to follow these instructions to maintain your marble countertops:
- Dust and then buff with a slightly damp cleansing cloth for routine, non-spill cleaning and shine.
- Use non-sudsing ammonia with a damp cloth when more intense cleaning is needed.
- Always use commercial grade marble polish to restore shine following a deeper cleaning.
- Never use abrasive cleaners on marble, including acid-based cleaners.
GRANITE COUNTERTOPS
Granite is another popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Granite comes in a wide variety of colors and styles and looks striking in many different settings. While more durable than marble, granite also requires specific cleaning and care instructions. The most important thing to remember with regards to granite is prevention; as soon as something spills on a granite countertop, clean it up before it can penetrate the surface. Over time, spills can dull the surface. Some additional care instructions to keep help keep your granite countertops looking their best
- Normal cleaning of granite countertops can be done with warm water and dishwashing liquid.
- Avoid acid-based cleaners on granite as they tend to dull the surface over time
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS
Whether you’ve selected a Cambria quartz, Silestone quartz, Caesarstone quartz, or Vetrazzo quartz, each needs to be cared for properly. Our quartz countertops are designed to make your kitchen or bathroom look beautiful and sophisticated. Caring for quartz is easier as this surface is more durable than marble or granite. Nevertheless, it is important to be mindful of the best cleaning and care techniques:
- Always take care of spills and messes promptly before they’ve had a chance to dry. Quartz will resist permanent staining effectively, but warm soap and water is the best way to clean up after a routine spill.
- For dried or heavy spills, use a glass cleaner alongside a nonabrasive sponge. A plastic knife or another unsharpened utensil can be used to chip away hardened spills carefully.
- Degreasers can be used if grease is splattered after cooking.
- Harsh cleaners on either side of the pH spectrum should not be used on quartz as this can damage the surface over time.