Monday, July 25, 2011

Cleaning Granite Counters

You’ll find that granite counters are easy to clean, and require little maintenance. Still, you need to take regular care to ensure your granite countertops don’t become damaged or stained. Here’s what the Universal Stone staff tells clients who want to make sure their countertops always retain their luster.

1. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface.
2. Wipe the counter using water. This should be done on a daily or as needed basis.
3. On a weekly basis, wipe the counters down with a damp cloth and a stone cleaner. Never use harsh or abrasive chemicals or cleaners.
4. To clean oily stains, use a mixture of flour or baking soda and dish soap. Add water and place it directly on the stain. Let it sit overnight.

Having problems cleaning your granite counter? MN granite counters experts Universal Stone can help. Contact us by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 18, 2011

Granite Counters Benefits

Granite counters are appealing because they present many benefits that other natural stone countertops lack. Universal Stone customers like granite countertops for many reasons, including:
  • Uniqueness. Like snowflakes, each and every granite countertop is not like any other.
  • Long lasting beauty. You’ll still be in awe of these counters in five years time. They will last you a lifetime and more.  
  • Always there. Natural stones like granite always is readily available.
  • Easy to coordinate. You can match the counters with a variety of sink finishes, including ceramic, copper, onyx, marble and more.
  • Durable. It’s hard to cut or chip granite, and hot items won’t leave burn or char marks.

We are MN granite counters professionals. Learn more about our services at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 11, 2011

More Granite Counters FAQ

Universal Stone gets a lot of questions about granite counters:

How do I know if my granite countertops need resealed?
You can sprinkle some water and see if it soaks into the stone instead of beading up. If the water doesn’t wipe away, then it’s time to get them resealed.

What’s the best way to know if my old cabinets can support a new granite counter?
Natural stone counters can weigh as much as 30 lbs. per square foot. Your contractor will need to make sure your cabinets are able to handle the weight.

What is flamed granite?
Granite can be flamed by applying high heat to the stone’s surface. This process melts the surface and crystals to shatter, leaving a textured surface perfect for paving or wet areas.

What is honed granite?
Honed granite is when polishing process is stopped before a shiny surface is present. It gives the stone a softer appearance.

How do I know my granite is high quality?
It should not show a pattern in areas not polished. The polished areas should be uniform without flake textures.

Universal Stone is comprised of expert MN granite counters contractors. Find out more about our services at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 4, 2011

Granite Counters FAQ

The Universal Stone staff gets a lot of questions about granite counters. Here are some of the most common:

Where does granite come from?
All over the world, and countries like Brazil and India are where it can be found most commonly. It takes millions of years for granite to form under the Earth’s surface.

Are granite countertops high maintenance?
Depending on the color of your stone, they need to be sealed once or twice a year. The process is much easier than polishing furniture. All you have to do is spray the surface and wipe it.

Can my granite counter be damaged?
Yes, by blows of great impact and sharp objects. Sealing your counters will protect them from staining.

What’s a seam?
It’s the portion where two pieces of stone are connected. To fill in the space, an epoxy mixture is used that matches/blends with the color of the stones. This seam is made to flow with the stone, and is seen minimally.

Are there different classes of granite?
Yes. Granite is a natural stone that comes from all over the world, and as such, it can be found in many variations. There are several aspects that can affect the class or price, with the more rare granite being from a higher class.

MN granite counters contractor Universal Stone can help you with your natural stone needs. Contact us today by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com