Practices to Avoid When Using Granite Countertops

Countertops Kitchen Remodeling Tips for homeowners Jun 19

Do Not Work Raw Meat on the Countertop

Since granite kitchen countertops in Birmingham, MI are porous to one degree or another, working raw meat on the countertop is extremely ill-advised. Raw meat can be a host to a variety of bacteria. While these bacteria are effectively melted away as the meat is being cooked, they can definitely spread themselves around various materials when raw. Working with raw meat directly on the countertop surface puts the countertop at risk of absorbing some bacteria. Of course, the bacteria won't put any sort of dent on the material, but it might end up infecting the homeowner if it happens to find a way to get onto other food. Additionally, after working the raw meat directly on the countertop finish, homeowners often feel inclined to use an abrasive cleaning product in order to clear potential bacteria away from the area. While this certainly does the trick in terms of minimizing bacteria, using overly abrasive cleansers on a countertop surface might eventually lead to the deterioration of the countertop finish.

Be Mindful of Unsupported Areas

In any kitchen countertop, there's bound to be at least one area of the stone that remains unsupported throughout its lifetime. Depending on the cabinetry, there might be entire squares of two feet or more that aren't supported by anything at all. While these areas will certainly tolerate regular kitchen use, they might not seem so strong when faced with a person's entire body weight. There are several areas that homeowners can sit or stand on in a granite countertop, though it's highly advised that they first determine where the material is at its weakest and refrain from sitting or standing there.

Don't Procrastinate on Those Spills

While granite is entirely forgiving of spills if wiped up right away, especially if a sealer has been properly and periodically applied, there's no good reason for a homeowner to leave a coffee or wine spill over the material overnight. Since granite is porous, it's probable that it will drink the material right up throughout a long night, resulting in a clear internal blemish that won't possibly be removed. It's advised that homeowners first ensure that their granite is properly sealed, and be vigilant in noticing and responding to spills over the material as they occur.

The Undermount Sink Is Not a Bathtub

Homeowners with babies might understandably have to take care of two birds with one stone during particularly frantic nights, giving the baby a bath in the sink as the vegetables boil for supper. This is normally fine, unless the sink is an undermount. Some undermount sinks are installed entirely with silicone and epoxy glue, meaning they can detach if they experience enough weight or pressure. If the kitchen sink is an undermount, it's best to save the baths from the bathroom.