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Proper care ensures the longevity and beauty expected from this premium product. In addition to the polished finish, it's possible to get a “honed” or flat finish. Although a honed finish can be very attractive for fireplaces or spa trim, it is not recommended for kitchen use. Over time, everyday use will tend to lend a polish to some areas, and the additional necessary sealers will distract from the beauty of the surface. A polished finish is easiest to maintain with regular care that includes proper cleaning and the use of sealers to prevent staining.

Care for a polished finish begins with daily attention to what is placed on the surface. Granite countertops are hard and can withstand a falling can of soup, but the polished surface is a bit more delicate. Never use the granite as a cutting surface, always use a cutting board. Avoid allowing acidic foods such as lemon juice, vinegar and soft drinks to be left on the surface for any amount of time, as they can etch the surface with their acidic content. Another thing that removes the polished shine are harsh cleaning products or abrasive cleansers (liquid or powder). To clean the surface without leaving streaks, use only a small amount of warm water with a ph balanced dishwashing liquid.

Although granite is extremely hard over-all, some of the minerals in it may be very soft. The existence of different minerals is what makes the granite easy to scratch, be chipped or break along the grain if someone installs a cheaper commercial grade rather then a prime cut. In order to protect the surface, it is recommended to avoid dragging pots, pans or appliances across the stone. Avoide Scooting something sharp across the countertop   as it will scratch the polished surface. Scratches allow stains to mar an otherwise beautiful lifetime surface.

Once a year, a penetrating sealant should be applied. Regular polishing will keep the finish gleaming. Use a penetrating sealant recommended by Galaxy Granite or from a home builder supply company. Avoid using a generic stone sealer that will not penetrate the stone, as it will create a cloudy surface that will have to be removed by stripping the entire countertop, using harsh solvents. Remember, the glossy shine isn't caused by a coating on the surface, but by expert polishing using diamond polishing tools. We offer on-site polishing services to all commercial properties and home owners.

If there is minor damage to a granite countertop, it can be resolved by the homeowner. If a pot or pan leaves a grey or black mark on the surface, it can be polished out using ultra fine steel wool. If a glue-like substance is stuck on the countertop, it is possible to scrape it off with a credit card or single sided razor blade. Small marks made during the removal can be polished out with the fine steel wool. If the granite is chipped or cracked, just call in our professionals to perform invisible repairs.

In addition to its strength, granite is a very beautiful stone that adds color and warmth to any kitchen. With just a little care to protect their beauty and utility, granite countertops will last a lifetime.

Galaxy is a home improvement contractor specializing in granite and marble kitchen and bath countertops, fireplace facings and custom cut stone work projects for residenial and commercial projects. Look to us for Kitchen and Bathroom remodeling in the cities of Detroit, Ann Arbor, Warren, Dearborn, Farmington, Troy, Livonia, Southfield, Sterling Heights, Bloomfield Hills, Jackson, Novi, Rochester, Utica, West Bloomfield, Burton, Clarkston, Clinton Township, Royal Oak, Saint Clair Shores, Allen Park, Auburn Hills, Belleville, Birmingham, Brighton, Canton, Sterling Heights, Dearborn and surrounding areas in Michigan.