What is Granite?
Granite Care

What is Granite?

Granite is a coarse grained crystalline igneous rock composed primarily of quartz and feldspar. It forms from slowly cooling magma (silicate melt) that is subjected to extreme pressures deep beneath the earth’s surface.

With public awareness increasingly turning to the use of natural materials in the home, granite has become the countertop of choice for today’s kitchen designer.

Synthetic solid surface materials are no match for the richness, depth, and stellar performance of real granite. Unlike laminates and solid-surface materials, a hot frying pan has no effect on granite’s mirror like finish. The diamond-like hardness of granite makes it virtually impervious to abrasions, stains, and extreme heat.

Most important: By choosing a granite countertop and island, you not only give your kitchen timeless performance and beauty, you increase the value of your home.

Features of Granite

• Highly heat resistant
• Naturally beautiful
• Chip and scratch resistant
• Stain resistance with Monticello Granite Care & Maintenance
• Resistant to mold and mildew
• Immune to freezing and thawing

Granite Care

Thank you for selecting Cornerstone Kitchens to make your stone selection. I have put together some Granite Care Instructions for your review:

1. NEVER use any ammonia products to clean your granite countertops, as this can eventually dull the finish of your countertop.
2. If you feel something stuck to the surface of your granite countertops, Double 00 Fine Steel Wool or a razor blade may be used to take it off.
3. Use warm, soapy water to clean the surface of your granite countertops. Specialized stone cleaners can also be used. These can usually be purchased form any tile store.
4. You may cut directly on the stone surface. It is recommended that if you are going to cut in the same place, you should use a cutting board, as repeated cutting on the stone surface will dull your knives.
5. Hot pots and pans can be placed directly on the granite countertop surface without the use of a potholder. However, do not slide the pot on the surface of the granite, as the pot may have a metal spur that could scratch the surface of the granite.

Granite is a practical countertop material. Granite countertops will retain their beauty and depth of shine for many years to come. Granite countertops add a great deal of value to your home. I hope you are happy with your granite experience. If you have any questions, even after we have finished your countertop installation, please feel free to contact our office at (239) 332-3020.

The natural stone you have purchased for your home or office is an investment that will provide many years of beautiful service. Stone is a natural product and simple care and maintenance will keep it looking beautiful. Here are some recommendations for routine care and cleaning:

Use mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a clean rag for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar, or other acids on the granite. The high acid content may etch the surface. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Bath and Other Wet Areas

In the bath or other wet areas, soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover. Frequent or over use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface of the stone.

Do’s and Don’ts

• DO dust surfaces frequently
• DO clean surfaces with mild detergent or stone soap
• DO thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing
• DO blot up spills immediately

• DON’T use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids.
• DON’T use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners
• DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers
• DON’T mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.