Granite Daily Maintenance:
We recommend getting into a routine of wiping granite counters daily with a neutral cleaner. You don't need to use a harsh soap, because nothing sticks to granite. It is a smooth surface. It is important to read labels. Most major brands of cleaners make a version that is safe for stone surfaces. A natural stone cleaner made for daily use should not leave redidue on stone, which is important. Soap has a fatty acid that leaves a greasy film which can dull or leave streaks on stone surfaces. Simple preventative measures can go a long way in protecting granite countertops. Make sure to use cutting boards, trivets, and cooling racks. Clean up spills and moisture as soon as possible. If you have bottles of cleaning fluids, such as dish detergent, keep them in a dish. Dry underneath dishes regularly and use coasters with glasses. If you don't take the time to wipe off water around the faucet and fixtures each day, you will see the water start to calcify, turning white. If you let it go, you will need a stone restoration.
Annual Maintenance:
Experts recommend sealing most granites, but the timeline can vary depending on use and which sealer was applied. Reseal these countertops using a penetrating sealer. It provides good water, oil, and grease resistance. Penetrating or impregnating sealers work just below the stone surface to provide additional safeguard against stains. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for how the product should be applied. It is typically as easy as spraying the product on and then wiping off the excess.
To identify when it is time to reseal, you can apply some hot water to an area. After setting for 10 to 20 minutes wipe it off. If the stone looks darker, it is still absorbing moisture. If it doesn't, it is sealed.
Some granites only require one application of sealer or no sealing like Absolute Black. Some may need many. A good sealer can last up to 10 years if using the right products to clean daily. Sunlight and Oxidation can break down the sealer if inappropriate cleaners are used. However, if you take care of your granite it will last a long time.