7 Common Mistakes Made With Your Natural Stone Countertops

Your new kitchen countertops look fabulous! There are some common mistakes made with your natural stone countertops that can cause damage to them. Remember, natural stone countertops are in fact a considerably hard stone and very durable. It does take a lot of abuse to ruin stone countertops to the point that they can not be used any longer. However, to keep them looking and performing at their best, it is good to avoid some common mistakes that people make, which can damage countertops or cause them to age prematurely. By following these simple steps, you will have beautiful stone countertops for generations.

Here Are The Most Common Mistakes Made With Your Natural Stone Countertops

 

1. Countertops Not Properly Sealed

Natural stone countertops must be adequately sealed to prevent spills from soaking into the stone and making it stain-resistant. However, sealing doesn’t make the stone stain-proof, but it makes it more stain-resistant. The sealing process depends on how often you seal your countertop. To test whether your countertop needs to be sealed, place a tablespoon of water on it and leave it there for 15 minutes, after which you can wipe the water away. If the remaining wet spot after wiping away the water is still present, your countertop should be sealed or repaired. The proper sealer and frequency must be used for the specific stone of your countertop. Make sure you select the appropriate sealer and frequency for your countertop.

 

2. Using Abrasive Cleaning Products

Do not use abrasive cleaning products and scouring pads on your natural stone countertops since they might scratch them. Instead, use a sponge or soft microfiber cloth, mild dish soap, and warm water to clean and wipe them down. To remove a particular stain on your countertop, visit the Natural Stone Institute to find out how to handle it. You may also make a poultice, a liquid cleaner mixed with an absorbent material to absorb a stain. The poultice is applied to the spot and left to sit for 24 to 48 hours to absorb the stain without damaging your countertops. To make a poultice, visit the Natural Stone Institute.

 

3. Using Disinfectant Incorrectly

When handling raw meat or eggs on your natural stone countertops, it is critical to disinfect the region before and after handling the meat or eggs. It is most frequent for people to fail to leave the disinfectant on for the required amount of time. If the disinfectant is not used correctly, you may prevent all harmful pathogens from being killed. Make sure to peruse the directions on your disinfectant to ensure you are using it correctly.

 

4. Not Cleaning Under Items That Sit On The Countertop

Blenders, mixers, microwaves, toasters, coffee makers, and other small kitchen appliances are frequently kept on kitchen countertops. Many people fail to clean beneath these items, where crumbs, spills, and stains can accumulate and damage counters. Periodically clean under any appliances on countertops to keep them looking good.

 

 5. Hot Pans Placed on Countertop

Do not place hot pots and pans on your natural stone countertop directly. Countertops may crack if placed directly on hot pots and pans. It is best to always place potholders or trivets under hot pots and pans to avoid damaging your countertops.

 

6. Using A Knife On Your Countertop

You should avoid using a sharp knife on your natural stone countertop and other mistakes that people can make. If you do, your countertop can be damaged, along with the need for it to be sealed more often. Whenever using a knife, use a cutting board to save your countertop and keep your knife blade from becoming dull.

 

7. Not Using Coasters

Many people make the mistake of not using coasters under their glass on natural stone countertops, especially those that contain alcohol or citrus juice. These liquids can leave stains. To keep the beauty of your countertop constantly preserved, always place a coaster under any drinking glass.

It is reasonably easy to keep your stone countertops looking great for generations. All it takes is a bit of care.