Are you planning a remodeling project for your home? Perhaps building a new home? If you are considering using an imitation or man made material for your kitchen, bathroom or fireplace, these are some facts about granite you should know prior to making your decision. For greater detail, see our Countertop Surface Comparisons.

• According to the National Association of Home Builders, the number one remodeling project in America is Granite Kitchen Countertops.
• Granite is over 150 times more bacteria resistant than plastic laminate, concrete tile, or wood.
• The Hospitality Institute of Technology and management shows granite is second only to stainless steel in cleanliness.
• Granite is the second hardest material on earth (second only to diamonds), making it scratch resistant. Granite is a durable material known for its strength. It provides a carefree surface that is easily maintained. If sealed properly and regularly, it is impervious to stains and heat.
• When sealed properly, granite is stain resistant and easy to maintain.
• Sealing of granite is as simple as wiping down your counters and only needs to be done once a year.
• The fact that other solid surfaces attempt to make their products look like granite speaks volumes about which product is the most beautiful.
• Granite is a natural material. It provides beauty and elegance that will be appreciated a lifetime. Since each piece of granite is different in color, your countertops will be unique and distinctive.

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Care and Maintenance: Natural Stone

Stone is a natural product made of natural minerals. When it is sealed and cleaned properly, you will easily preserve the natural beauty of this surface. Here are some basic guidelines for routine maintenance and cleaning. We provide a professional and complete line of maintenance products including cleaners, disinfectants, wipes, polishes and sealers.

Daily: You may use a sponge with warm water and diluted dish soap. You must thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing since soap scum build up may occur and give your granite a dull appearance over time. We suggest using a professional product since most stones will react adversely to cleaning chemicals and acids not intended for stone care use. They can even strip down the sealer and make it ineffective.

Periodically: This is not a requirement. You may want to liven up your surface and apply a simple to use polish from time to time. Sometimes your counters or vanities just need a good thorough cleaning and a little polish to restore the brand new feel and look. You will find that after polish is applied, the treated surface will appear glossier and it will even clean easier. The effects from adding a polish to your surface is similar to waxing a car.

Every Six Months: Your surface is sealed during our installation process. Please be skeptical of over the counter sealants as there is definitely a difference in quality between brands. Sealing is very simple. It usually requires wiping onto clean surfaces, allowing for a few minutes of absorption into the stone and wiping off. Always follow the directions on the bottle. Sealers are used to protect your surface from staining.

Do's:

• Do reseal your countertops every 6 months.
• Do use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Some foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the surface of many stones.
• Do dust surfaces frequently, especially on darker stones.
• Do blot up spills immediately such as fruit juices, wine and harsh chemicals as they may penetrate into the stain and cause stains.
• Do use a squeegee after showering for shower and bathtub care to help minimize soap scum buildup.
• Do contact us for instructions on stain removal should a stain occur. In most cases for oil or wine based stains, you can apply a poultice powder which will lift the stain.
  
  

Don'ts:

• Don't use too much dishwasher soap for cleaning as it may leave a film and cause streaks.
• Don't use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids, the high acid content may etch the surface.
• Don't use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub & tile cleaners. These products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
• Don't mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.

1950 Olivera Road, Suite B., Concord, CA 94520
tel: (925) 685-7100   fax: (925) 685-7200   email: Caterina@4stone.com

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