Installing granite countertops is a great way to update a kitchen. Kitchens with such features are more attractive and functional. Several benefits make many people prefer granite countertops over other options.
For one, granite countertops are strong and durable. The countertops also have unique designs that enhance the entire home’s style and curb appeal.
Understanding More About Granite Stain Resistance
Stain resistance should be a factor of consideration when choosing granite countertops. While no material is fully resistant to stains, granite countertops have higher stain resistance levels than other options.
The following information answers the question about stain resistance in granite.
Stain Resistance in Granite
Some granite tends to be more non-porous than others. Darker or black granite has less porosity than lighter granite. Lighter granite has a higher porosity and gets stained much faster than black granite.
Note that granite has less porosity than other natural stones like quartz. That fact makes granite countertops the best option for stain resistance.
To determine granite’s porosity, you may perform a water test. The first step is pouring a few water drops on the granite countertop’s surface. Observe how fast the water penetrates the granite surface.
When the granite darkens faster, the stone is more porous, and vice versa. The results will help you know how often the granite needs to be sealed.
Here are a couple common types of granite and their stain resistance characteristics.
Giallo Ornamental Granite
Giallo ornamental granite countertops are the best for adding personality to dull kitchens. The granite is either white, gray, or light brown. Giallo ornamental granite has a warm tone, enabling it to blend with a kitchen’s wood cabinetry system.
The light colors of Giallo ornamental granite make them less stain-resistant. Immediately remove liquid and food spills to protect Giallo ornamental granite from staining. This type of granite may need to be resealed more often than dark-colored granite.
Snowfall Granite
Snowfall granite comes in a range of colors. The granite is either white, brown, or inky black.
Snowfall granites are more stain-resistant than Giallo ornamental granite. Immediate wiping off the spills is also necessary regardless of the stone’s high stain resistance. It can be harder to see spills on dark granite, so be vigilant about wiping up spills as soon as you notice them.
Bianco Antico granite, Bianco Romano, and New River White granites are other light-colored natural stones. Such granites are also porous, making it easier for them to get stained.
Substances That Stain Granite Easily
There are many foods and liquid spills that easily stain light-colored granite countertops. Common substances include coffee, toothpaste, red liquids, and cooking oils. Oily spills leave permanent stains on granite countertops.
How to Clean Stained Granite
Poor granite cleaning leaves behind the stains, making it hard to remove them in the future. One should not allow the spills to dry on the granite for a long time. Acidic cleaners are not the best since they make granite lose its luster.
A mixture of soap detergent is the best solution for cleaning stained granite. The solution gets rid of stains while protecting the granite surfaces.
Consider Granite Countertop Installation
Kitchens are significant parts of residential properties. An updated kitchen improves the value of the entire home.
Granite countertops are easy to maintain, stylish, and very durable. Hire a professional for your granite countertop installation to get a unique and functional kitchen space.
