Deciding to remodel your kitchen or bathroom can be a challenging. From design to aesthetics and function you want to make sure it’s exactly what you want and that it’s done right.
Making decisions is what fuels the process and choosing a countertop solution that checks all the boxes may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. A tried-and-true material such as granite or quartz won’t let you down and will probably exceed your expectations.
One of the most popular choices for countertops is granite.
If you’re considering putting granite countertops in either your kitchen or bathroom, you probably have a few questions, and we’d like to answer them for you. So, what are the 6 most frequently asked questions about installing granite countertops?
-
- Can I cut on granite countertops?
- Can I put hot pots on granite countertops?
- Why should I seal my granite countertops?
- How do I clean and seal the granite?
- Will my granite countertops have pits on the surface?
- What surface finishes does granite come in?
If you’re reading this, it stands to reason that granite is one of your top choices for your new countertops. We have compiled a list of the top 6 most frequently asked questions to help you make the best choice.
Can I cut on granite countertops?
Yes. Granite is a highly durable material and can be used as a cutting surface without worrying about scratches. Although, because of the hardness of your granite countertops, you may end up dulling your knives.
You want to be careful about cutting raw meat on the surface of your countertop. Raw meat contains bacteria such as salmonella that end up on other foods. Most people who work with raw meats use harsh chemicals to clean up afterward. These chemicals are too powerful to use on your countertops.
Can I put hot pans on granite countertops?
Yes. You can put hot pans on granite countertops, although it will absorb the heat making the countertop hot to the touch. You should avoid putting hot pans on the countertop seams because it may negatively affect the glue.
Should I seal my granite countertops, why?
Yes. You must seal your countertops to protect them against staining. Granite is a porous material meaning that it can absorb moisture, especially acids that leave a stain. When you seal your countertop, it preserves your color and fills the porous spaces so liquids can’t get in.
How do I clean and seal the granite?
You’ll find a ton of specialty cleaners on the market, but we always advise people just to use soap and water.
First, you want to choose if you wish to a water-based sealant that’s environmentally friendly or a solvent-based sealant that may go deeper into the stone. Whichever one you choose; you want to make sure the active ingredient is “fluorocarbon aliphatic resin.” It may be more expensive, but it does provide five to ten years of protection.
Clean the countertop and then wait for 24 hours before sealing. Once the 24 hours have passed, you want to wipe the countertop with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust or particles. Next, apply the sealant on your granite countertop, starting on one side and then to the other. Apply in circular motions. Wait for the instructed amount of time to let the sealant set.
Once the waiting time passes, then wipe off the excess with a clean cloth. If your countertop requires additional coats, wait 48 hours before doing it. Don’t use the countertops for 48; this is the amount of time it takes for the sealant to cure.
Will my granite countertops have pits on the surface?
Granite is crystalline in structure, so yes, it may have tiny pits on the surface. They are difficult to spot on larger pieces because it’s polished. It may have natural fissures as well that may look like cracks. These are not defects but instead are naturally formed. This is one of the reasons you want to make sure to seal your countertops.
What surface finishes does granite come in?
The three most popular finishes for granite countertops are
-
- Honed granite is polished but not as polished as polished stone. It has a more matte appearance instead of a glossy appearance
- Polished granite is the most common and has a high-gloss reflective appearance.
- Leathered granite has a textured appearance and looks like leather. It shows off more of the natural characteristics and helps to hide stains, scratches, and smudges.
Granite Countertop Installation Services
Granite is undeniably one of the most durable countertops that you can invest in. Because of its durability, you can rely on it to remain beautiful for years to come.
Get the most out of your countertops with the highest quality stone available in the Austin area at Texas Granite Group. We are an experienced stone fabricator that is certified to install countertops with the highest quality standard.
Specializing in granite, quartz, and marble we can custom design your kitchen and bathroom countertops to achieve an incredible appearance. We have installed hundreds of countertops in homes and businesses throughout Texas always making certain our work exceeds our quality requirements.
Questions on countertops or our renovation services? Stop by our countertop showroom and speak with a design specialist today, Free!