PRODUCT & CARE GUIDE
We are extremely grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us! Our top priority is ensuring your complete satisfaction.
Please review these helpful tips for the continued care and maintenance of your new countertops.
As always, our skilled team is available to address any questions or concerns you may have.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
Natural and Engineered stone products have remarkable beauty and natural characteristics that make them tough and durable.
Slabs may vary in coloration, shading, markings, and textures from one slab to another and from one bundle to another.
Granite by Design, Inc. cannot guarantee that any slab will be uniform or consistent in pattern. It is always recommended to view slabs in person!
GRANITE is a natural stone, both tough and durable, ranking 6-7 on the Mohs Scale. From a geological perspective, Granite is an igneous rock – a rock that was originally formed when lava or magma cooled. Since Granite is formed by heat and pressure over millions of years, the stone is naturally heat-resistant and easily withstands everyday wear and tear. Its appearance can vary greatly depending on its composition - but generally features prominent, coarse grains and a mottled pattern with earthy tones like grays, browns, or blacks.
QUARTZITE is also a natural stone, equally durable but more scratch-resistant than granite, ranking 7-8 on the Mohs Scale. Quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock, formed when quartz-rich sandstone is subjected to intense heat and pressure, resulting in recrystallized sand grains. Quartzite is known for its strength, beauty, and marble-like appearance. Fabricating Quartzite involves a series of specialized processes to cut, shape, and polish. The only profile we offer for Quartzite is a Flat Polish. Naturally occurring fissures are a common characteristic of Quartzite and are not considered defects. If a crack develops during fabrication, a specialized epoxy is used to professionally repair and restore the Quartzite’s strength and integrity.
QUARTZ is a naturally occurring mineral, not a rock – made of oxygen and silicon. It ranks 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Quartz countertops are actually man-made composites of about 90% quartz and other blends of resins and polymers. Through extensive engineering, a manufacturing process was developed utilizing intense heat and pressure to increase the color consistency and overall strength. Quartz is often chosen for its bright, uniform appearance and low maintenance. It is non-porous and does not require sealing. Quartz is a popular choice for those seeking a modern, contemporary, and transitional kitchen style.
↓
CONTINUING CARE
Natural Stone, such as Granite or Quartzite, and Engineered Quartz can withstand normal wear and tear beautifully!
Here are a few tips to help maintain and care for your new countertops:
GRANITE & QUARTZITE
PREVENTATIVE CARE - Natural stones like Granite and Quartzite are porous, meaning there are tiny gaps that can absorb liquids and stains if not protected. We recommend applying a sealer every 6 months to a year. Sealing creates a barrier that helps prevent liquids and spills from penetrating the stone’s surface, and makes it easier to clean. Sealing countertops is a simple but effective way to keep your Natural Stone Countertops looking new! For helpful tips on applying sealer, check out our video “How to Properly Seal Your Granite”!
DAILY CLEANING - Use a soft cloth with a solution of mild dish soap and warm water or a specialized pH-neutral cleaner formulated for natural stone surfaces. Avoid using acidic cleaners such as bleach, vinegar, lemon juice, ammonia, as well as abrasive scouring powders, as these can damage and dull the stone’s surface. Drying the surface after cleaning helps to prevent water spots and streaking. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying a specialized stone cleaner.
REMOVING STAINS - Grease and oil staining around the stove area or sink-front can occur if not properly sealed. For removing grease stains and oil buildup, a paste made from baking soda, mild dish soap, and water can be effective. Apply the paste and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it sit overnight. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth, then dry. This process may need to be repeated until the stain is lifted. Once the stain is removed, be sure to seal the countertop to prevent oils and grease from penetrating the surface.
SURFACE DAMAGE - Both Natural and Engineered Stone are susceptible to chipping or scratching. Objects hitting edges, particularly at sinks or dishwashers, may cause cracks or chips. Natural Stones, such as Granite and Quartzite, are generally more heat-resistant. Engineered Quartz contains resin binders that can be damaged by extreme heat, making it more susceptible to thermal shock and cracking. Quartz can suffer from scorch marks, discoloration, or cracks from sudden, intense heat. WE RECOMMEND ALWAYS USING A TRIVET OR HOT PAD FOR PROTECTION.
ENGINEERED QUARTZ
PREVENTATIVE CARE - Engineered Quartz is non-absorbent, making the surface resistant to staining and eliminating the need for sealants. Its non-porous surface also greatly reduces the potential for bacterial growth. To avoid surface discoloration, do not allow spills and liquids to remain on the surface for extended periods of time.
DAILY CLEANING - Residues on the surface of Engineered Quartz can be removed using warm water, a soft cloth, and mild soap. Drying the surface after cleaning helps to prevent water spots and streaking. Do not use abrasive, strong alkaline, acid, free radicals, oxidizers, or similar cleaners. These harsh cleaners can cause the gloss finish of your Engineered Quartz to appear dull or inconsistent.
REMOVING STAINS - A NON-ABRASIVE Soft Scrub may be used to remove stubborn stains. Always clean spills immediately (especially coffee, wine or acidic foods), use cutting boards for all prep work to avoid knife marks, use coasters for drinks to prevent water rings, and use trivets for hot cookware to prevent discoloration, staining or thermal shock.
SURFACE DAMAGE - Both Natural and Engineered Quartz are susceptible to chipping or scratching. Objects hitting edges, particularly at sinks or dishwashers, may cause cracks or chips. Natural Stones, such as Granite and Quartzite, are generally more heat-resistant. Engineered Quartz contains resin binders that can be damaged by extreme heat, making it more susceptible to thermal shock and cracking. Quartz can suffer from scorch marks, discoloration, or cracks from sudden, intense heat. WE RECOMMEND ALWAYS USING A TRIVET OR HOT PAD FOR PROTECTION.
