Countertops stand at the epicenter of homes as surfaces for meal prep, sinks, appliances, and overflow storage. Despite durability, constant use leaves even high-end materials susceptible to scratches, scorches, stains and other unbecoming marks stealing aesthetic appeal. The experts at Bedrock Quartz, a Utah countertop installation company, say that protecting countertops from avoidable damage ensures their flawless function and beauty persists for years.
Use Cutting Boards
Sharp knife blades slicing directly on countertop surfaces inevitably scratch and slice incrementally deeper with each use. Always lay washable thin flexible cutting boards down when chopping fruits, vegetables, meats and baked goods. When not in use, store conveniently nearby for easy access rather than across kitchens in distant drawers. Place damp towels or shelf liners underneath to prevent slipping and sliding during vigorous prep work.
Employ Heat Protection
Exposure to extreme heat and cold alike can damage resin coatings and cause cracking issues over time. Use flame resistant pads or trivets when placing hot pots, pans, casserole dishes and other scalding cookware like electric skillets directly from ovens or stovetops onto surfaces. Avoid subjecting stone materials to abrupt temperature shocks which can fracture slabs.
Clean Spills Swiftly
All countertop materials need quick wipe ups after red wine, grease splatters, fruit juices or other spills occur to prevent staining or etching. Keep a spray bottle filled with a homemade gentle cleaner like distilled white vinegar and dish soap handy for prompt application directly onto soiled areas. Let the solution penetrate briefly before wiping away all traces using a soft microfiber cloth. Sugary substances prove especially problematic, dissolving into microscopic crevices if left overnight. Attend messes as soon as possible and repeat cleaning until no visible residue remains.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Abrasive Cleaners
While scrubbing vigorously with exfoliating salt mixes, scouring pads and strong degreasing solutions may feel satisfyingly thorough, the microscopic damage accrues over time dulling surfaces and stripping vital protective sealants. Eventually, corrosion forms vulnerable pits, cracks and cloudiness ruining appearance and performance. Instead, pour a dime sized drop of mild eco-friendly soap into a spray bottle filled with warm water. Use soft microfiber cloths to gently wipe down counters without abrasive friction. Immediately dry to prevent buildup in grout lines. Check manufacturer guidance for cleaning product specifics.
Reseal Annually
Penetrating sealants safeguard porous materials like natural stone, concrete, grout and wood from stain infiltration, but efficacy fades over time. Reapply sealants annually or immediately whenever spills appear to absorb rather than bead up and wipe away easily. Allow fresh applications to fully cure for 72 hours before resuming use of protected areas. Sealing transforms high maintenance surfaces into easy care counters that simply need swift wipe ups. Enhance water resistance further with coasters underneath glasses.
Inspect Support Structures
Faulty underlayments cause extensive damage regardless of protective precautions. Visible cracks typically indicate foundational weaknesses allowing subtle shifts that eventually fracture finishes badly. Fill gaps with flexible caulk that allows for expansion contraction, but halt use immediately once fissures emerge. Reinforce support structures and underlayment layers to suitable depths first before replacing damaged tops. Ensure sufficient overhang for self-rimming sinks to accommodate color-matched caulk, seamlessly concealing cracks. Otherwise uneven walls show through glaringly loud.
Conclusion
Shielding counters from daily wear-and-tear allows them to retain flawless beauty and optimal performance through years of enjoyment. Using cutting boards, applying heat protection, promptly cleaning spills, avoiding harsh cleaners, annually resealing and inspecting structures preserves pristine surfaces. A few effortless preventative measures protects substantial investments in these highly used spaces. Treat counters kindly and they will continue gracing kitchens and baths gorgeously for decades on end.