Kitchen countertops add color, contrast, and texture to any kitchen. However, they can also endure more stress than many other surfaces in a home, and it’s important to know how to maintain them. Fortunately, there are many simple ways you can keep the countertops tidy and intact. The following guide explains how you can keep your natural stone countertops looking great.

What Are Some Issues That Can Damage Countertops?

1. Acid

Kitchen countertops are usually coated with a seal so that they aren't harmed by moisture. However, acid can dissolve this seal until it reaches the natural stone beneath. There, the acid will eat away a small bit of the top layer, leaving dull, discolored spots. Harmful acid can come from fruit, soap, soda, or vinegar. As a result, it's always wise to chop up fruit on a cutting board and to clean up any spills before they can damage the countertops’ seal.

2. Heat

Some countertops don’t handle heat well. For example, setting a hot pot or pan on them will leave a mark, or even crack the material, since the heat can break the protective sealant. Even if you have a durable material like granite or quartz that can resist heat, it’s still best to take some precautions. If you're cooking multiple hot dishes in the kitchen, such as casseroles and pies, set them down on placemats or dish pads so that they can't harm the bare countertops. 

3. Cutting Knives

Cutting food on your counter damages the surface and your knives. Even if you have a durable material like granite or quartz, always use a cutting board. Despite the strength of some surfaces, repeated chopping, slicing, and cutting will eventually wear down their protective seal and scratch the materials underneath over time. By being careful, you'll protect your investment and also maintain the kitchen's overall aesthetic. 

If it’s time to upgrade your kitchen countertops, choose a durable material from Rocky Mountain Granite & Marble. This company carries beautiful quartz, granite, and natural stone counters at their store in Webster, NY. Their skilled team can provide custom designs, and they also provide reliable countertop installations. Visit their website to learn more about their options, or call (585) 265-6610 to schedule an appointment for an installaton.