Can I Chop Veggies on My Granite Countertop? Of course, you can! As a hard, natural stone, granite does a good job of resisting scratches, but it is not impervious. Its polished surface can become dull over time when scratched repeatedly by knives and other kitchen utensils.
While you can cut directly on some stone countertops, it is not recommended. Granite is one of the most durable countertop materials you can buy, and it can certainly withstand cuts from a knife blade. However, if your granite has a sealer on it, cutting can eventually wear down the sealant.
There is a misconception that granite countertops chip easily: they don't. In truth, granite is one of the most rigid materials out there, though it's liable to chip given extreme pressure. Avoid chips by keeping the countertop clean and sealed. Also, make use of trivets.
Homeowners don't need to worry about damaging their countertops with everyday use because granite is quite heat resistant. Placing a hot pan on a well-maintained granite slab will not cause it to crack or weaken. Just remember that repeatedly placing a very hot pan on the same spot may cause granite to discolor.
Note: Some experts will recommend sealing granite countertops every “6-12 months” or “3-5 years”, but there is no hard and fast rule.
DO NOT put hot pots, pans or appliances such as toaster ovens and slow cookers directly on your counter top's. Such items can cause serious damage to your stone or quartz counter tops.
Clorox and Lysol sprays and wipes are convenient, but they are not safe for granite countertops. They rarely contain bleach, but they do generally contain citric acid to help remove soap scum. Avoid using bleach as well.
Jokes apart, it is expected that with proper care, the lifespan of a granite countertop can be up to 30 years or more. In fact, it can even outlive your house. However, that is just an arbitrary number that can increase or decrease depending on how you maintain granite.
While tile may be able to endure for 100 years or more, that doesn't take into account the gunk and grime that can accumulate between the tiles. On the other hand, granite and other natural stones can expect a lifespan of 100 years, and maybe more, without worrying about such annoyances.
Since granite countertops have a sealant on them to keep them shiny and stain-resistant, you want to avoid using anything too acidic or basic on the granite. Frequent use of vinegar, Windex or bleach will dull the granite and weaken the sealant. Instead, a little soap and water should do the trick.
The best way to protect your granite countertop from chipping is by adding a sealant and cleaning it regularly. Cleaning removes stains and other substances that may weaken the surface. Chipping is caused by hitting the surface with hard or sharp objects. Therefore, avoid hitting the surface with sharp objects.
Can I Chop Veggies on My Granite Countertop? Of course, you can! As a hard, natural stone, granite does a good job of resisting scratches, but it is not impervious. Its polished surface can become dull over time when scratched repeatedly by knives and other kitchen utensils.
Placing hot appliances on the countertops
Even if your countertops are tough, heat from heat-producing appliances such as ovens can destroy them. So always work at preventing damage to the countertops as much as possible. You can easily do this by placing a barrier between the appliances and countertops.
Raw Meats
Because raw meat is a common source of bacteria and other microscopic pathogens, do what you can to prevent any contact between meats, fish, and poultry and your granite countertops. Never thaw raw meat directly on your countertops, and use watertight cutting boards during meal preparation.
Natural granite stone will not fade or yellow in the sun. Granite slabs treated with dyes or resins can fade or darken over time. Avoid this problem by working with a reputable supplier and sealing your countertops regularly.
Taking the time to care for your granite will help maintain the natural beauty of your countertops. Quartz, on the other hand, is much easier to clean and maintain. Because quartz is a manufactured product, it is non-porous and more resistant to staining. Quartz is also well known for being GERM-FREE.
Granite is also highly durable, making it perfect for families with little ones. Granite, while less porous than marble, will still require sealing. However, it's not difficult and when done properly, granite can be just as maintenance-free as a quartz countertop.
However, vinegar should never be used on your granite countertops. Vinegar is made up of acids that can severely harm your granite. Even if it is diluted, vinegar may still leave acids on your granite countertops. This can cause your natural stone countertops to etch.
Always Use a Soft Cloth or Sponge
However, you always want to use hot water for any of those quick clean-ups. You might want to stay away from the regular dish soap. It will not harm your countertops, but it can leave a buildup of soap scum over time. In turn, dish soap will dull the appearance of your granite.
No, you can't use disinfecting wipes on granite countertops. This is because disinfecting wipes contain citric acid as their primary ingredient. This is highly acidic and weakens the seal on your countertop's surface leaving them vulnerable to stains and discoloration.
Granite can be chosen to fit any decor or design scheme. Granite is also very durable and resists heat. This makes it great for kneading dough, making roll-out cookies, and other tasks that need a cool countertop for best results.
Placing such high heat on your granite countertop for only a few seconds will not cause significant damage, but if it continues to be a habit or the item is left on the countertop for a longer period of time, the damage is likely to occur.
In general, a granite top is fine to use an air fryer on, but if you were using it constantly you might want to consider a protective board under it just to be safe.