A Quick Tip on How to Maintain Granite Countertops and Other Stone Surfaces

Summer is winding down, but that doesn’t mean your home-improvement to-do list is complete. And when money’s tight, that do-it-yourself motivation gets even stronger. From a little yard work to extensive remodeling jobs, we recognize the importance of ease, efficiency and cost-savings when it comes to D.I.Y. undertakings. We also hope you realize a little TLC on your natural-stone surfaces will save you from expensive repair or replacement – money you can use toward other projects or, better yet, some vacation time. Here’s a quick tip on protecting your stone surfaces: Regular Checkup: If you are not the first homeowner to care for the stone surfaces in your home or the surfaces have gone otherwise unloved for a long period of time, check the integrity of the seal. The protective seal is a critical component of natural stone because it prevents harmful substances such as acidic coffee, juice or wine from staining and etching the surface, leading to costly repair or replacement. A simple water test can determine if your seal is in good shape. Pour water (about 3 inches in diameter) on the surface in several locations and let it sit for 30 minutes. Be sure to do this in several locations, since the integrity of the seal could vary from one area to another. If the water beads, then the stone remains sealed. However, if the stone is penetrated – look for a dark mark or ring created by the water – it is time to reseal. Check for etching and stains as well before sealing your stone surfaces. You’ll want to fix these issues before the sealant is applied. Less Scrubbing, More Spraying and Wiping Outdoor parties are filled with good times and great memories, but getting ready for them can be a backbreaking chore. That’s why we created the Granite Gold Outdoor Stone Cleaner. It quickly and safely cleans exterior patios and decks without damaging natural stone. Much like do-it-yourself outdoor window cleaners, the Granite Gold Outdoor Stone Cleaner attaches to a garden hose for ease and convenience. It is safe to use on all natural-stone and concrete patios, decks and driveways, and it will not harm plants, animals, siding or plastics. In other news, we’ve introduced new products such as the Granite Gold Shower Cleaner, Grout Cleaner and Specialty Cleaner, all with the same non-abrasive, environmentally friendly formula to clean, restore and protect your natural stone. Also new to our line of specially formulated stone care products is the Granite Gold Disinfecting Wipes – the first of its kind designed to protect natural stone surfaces AND kill household bacteria. We’ve also increased our distribution to nearly 10,000 store locations throughout the U.S., making our products even easier to find at well-known store brands such as Kroger, Target, Supervalu, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ace Hardware and True Value Hardware Stores! Check out our updated store locator, where you can also search by product name, for a store near you. We’re not Actors Lenny and Lenny grew up in the stone care industry with a broom in their hands to cutting and installing stone surfaces to maintenance and repair. They’re love for stone is as evident as their lack of acting abilities. Check it out in this shameless plug.