| |
| |
|
Interior Decorating Information |
|
|
|
Cleaning Granite Countertops
Homeowners who are seeking to increase value to their homes enjoy the durability and easy maintenance when upgrading to granite countertops. Granite is the most durable of all stones, second only to diamonds. Granite, being created from molten rock, can withstand the heat from a hot pot without a trivet. The hardness of the surface is excellent for handling dough and confectionery. While durable and low maintenance, however, they are not impervious to damage. Properly installed granite countertops should last a lifetime, one justification for the higher costs associated with the material and installation. The granite suppler should provide personalized instructions for care with each slab, since all granite is made up of many different minerals. Even if two different stone slabs come from the same part of the world, there will be variances in the granite that require different kinds of attention. Proper care ensures the longevity and beauty expected from this premium product. In addition to the polished finish, it's possible to get a "honed" or flat finish. Although a honed finish can be very attractive, it is not recommended for kitchen use. Over time, everyday use will tend to lend a polish to some areas, and the additional necessary sealers will distract from the beauty of the surface. A polished finish is easiest to maintain with regular care that includes proper cleaning and the use of sealers to prevent staining. Care for a polished finish begins with daily attention to what is placed on the surface. Granite countertops are hard and can withstand a falling can of soup, but the polished surface is a bit more delicate. Never use the granite as a cutting surface, always use a cutting board. Avoid allowing acidic foods such as lemon juice, vinegar and soft drinks to be left on the surface for any amount of time, as they can etch the surface. Another thing that removes the polished shine are harsh cleaning products or abrasive cleansers (liquid or powder). To clean the surface without leaving streaks, use only a small amount of warm water with a ph balanced dishwashing liquid. Although granite is extremely hard, some of the minerals in it may be very soft. The existence of different minerals is what makes the granite easy to scratch, be chipped or break along the grain. In order to protect the surface, it is recommended to avoid dragging pots, pans or appliances across the stone. Scooting something across the countertop that has even a grain of sugar under it will scratch the polished surface. Scratches allow stains to mar an otherwise beautiful surface. Once a year, a penetrating sealant should be applied. Regular polishing will keep the finish gleaming. Use a penetrating sealant recommended by the supplier or the home builder. Avoid using a stone sealer that will not penetrate the stone, as it will create a cloudy surface that will have to be removed by stripping the entire countertop, using harsh solvents. Remember, the glossy shine isn't caused by a coating on the surface, but by expert polishing using diamond polishing tools. If there is minor damage to a granite countertop, it can be resolved by the homeowner. If a pot or pan leaves a grey or black mark on the surface, it can be polished out using fine steel wool. If a glue-like substance is stuck on the countertop, it is possible to scrape it off with a credit card or single sided razor blade. Small marks made during the removal can be polished out with a fine steel wool. If the granite is chipped or cracked, a professional should be called in to perform invisible repairs. In addition to its strength, granite is a very beautiful stone that adds color and warmth to any kitchen. With just a little care to protect their beauty and utility, granite countertops will last a lifetime. Granite Countertops provides detailed information on granite kitchen and tile countertops, advice on installing and cleaning granite countertops, information on price and locations to purchase discount granite counter tops, and more. Granite Countertops is the sister site of Kitchen Sinks Web.
MORE RESOURCES:
Interior-Decorating - Google News |
|
|
|
RELATED ARTICLES
Luxurious Linen - Surround Yourself With Sensual Texture Luxurious linen has been used for centuries. Writers speak in poetic terms of the lovely sensual textures and styles of sheets that were once decadent and even sinful because they were so lush and beautiful. Add A Little Spark To Your Bedroom With A Satin Comforter! If you want to make your bedroom look rich and luxurious, then top your bed with a satin comforter. Not only does satin carry a certain amount of sex appeal, but it seems to be an expression of wealth and prestige as well. Long-Strip and Engineered Hardwood Floors Longstrip hardwood floors are wide and long, and each plank has 2 to 3 strips of thin hardwood. These planks can be floated, stapled and glued-down. Aluminum Mini Blinds Aluminum blinds are a low-cost and durable solution as a window treatment. They remain durable and easy to maintain regardless of humidity. Picnic Baskets for Two Picnic baskets for two provide an intimate way to celebrate any occasion, whether it be a much-needed period of time spent alone with your mate or a reunion between friends. Instead of using paper plates, paper napkins, plastic cups, and plasticware, why not step it up a bit? But how are you going to carry all those fine china plates, wine glasses, large water thermoses, and other odds and ends?You might consider browsing for picnic baskets for two. The Function of Wine Storage Racks Storing wines is crucial to keeping wines flavor and letting it age to perfection. Wine cellars are an ideal way to store wines for long durations. Amish Furniture For the Home Amish Furniture makes a home warm and welcoming. Hard woods, have invited friendly visits and important family gatherings for years. Making Your Home Blossom is Easy Having trouble getting a room in your home to have that certain charm you're looking for? Searching for that perfect painting, sculpture, or table lamp can often be time-consuming, pricey, and/or lead to fights with your spouse. But, one simple and often overlooked way to add harmony to any room is with fresh cut flowers. Choosing Conservatory Furniture Conservatories are such lovely and serene rooms that homeowners want to spend a lot of time in them. However, you cannot enjoy your conservatory very easily without choosing conservatory furniture. Summers Unexpected Outdoor Candelabra For picnic tables, decks, porches, patios, and sidewalks, decorators are using an unusual source of candle lighting. Fireplace candelabra-those candle holders intended for fireplaces-have moved outside for the summer!Fireplace candelabra were originally designed to hold candles in your fireplace when you want the glow of flickering flames but not the heat or hassle of wood or gas fires. Make Your Own Fishing Decor from Fishing Gear Decorating with old, used fishing gear is fun, creative and inexpensive. It's pretty easy to find unique fishing gear to use as decorating items for your log cabin or home. Embossed Votive Holder Shade Create the look of a Stained Glass Votive HolderSupplies Needed:Most items can be found in the Scrap booking/Stamping section of your local craft store.Straight-Sided Clear Glass Votive HolderVellumCraft Markers of various colorsHole PunchDecorative StringEmbossing Powder in your choice of colorVersamark Ink PadEmbossing Heat ToolScissorsTape Measure or Ruler1. The Benefits of Owning Wood Mini Blinds Wood mini blinds are one variety of wood blinds for covering doors and windows. The smaller increments of a narrow slate dimension, wood mini blinds are better able to control the amount of light coming into a room and the view seen through a window. Refinishing Hardwood Floors The quality of the wear layer determines frequency of refinishing of hardwood floors. Poor quality products can not withstand being refinished even once. Decorate Yourself Happy: How to Decorate For Everyday Pleasure/Joy Because psychologists relate true happiness to joyous occurrences happening frequently, decorating your home to promote everyday pleasure makes sense. If you're planning a home makeover, provide for the cumulative total of all the little pleasure moments. Whats Your Design Sign? If you've been consistently bewildered about how to make your style happen in your home, relax, take a deep breath and forgive yourself. We don't come into this world with knowledge, we learn as we go!At first glance, interior design appears to be about the latest trends, beautiful fabrics, furniture or rugs, and the hottest label. Bathroom Vanity Lights: Tips Before Buying Vanity Bathroom Lights Bathroom vanity lights are often overlooked in a bathroom. Artificial light from vanity bathroom lights and general lighting is important during hours when natural light is not available. Decorating A Childs Room Decorating your child's room should be fun and exciting for all involved. The most important thing to remember when planning or decorating your child's room is to keep the decor age appropriate. Reasons to Consider a Professional Designer for Your Interior Decorating Project When one is considering a new look for an existing room the question always arises, "Do I need to hire a designer for my new project"? This depends on you and on your available free time, patience, creativity, resources and many more factors.---You might want to hire a professional designer if:Your time is at a premium with little free time for such a product. Contemporary Floor Lamps - Add Functional Modern Lighting! If you are thinking about updating the look of a room in your home consider the addition of a contemporary floor lamp. There are several types of floor lamps designed to provide decorative and task lighting to your home and any room is fair game for adding a lamp.
|
| home | site map | Nautical Decor |
| © 2006 |
