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Kitchen countertops stand at the heart of homes as surfaces for meal prep, clean-up, entertaining and displaying decorative accents. The good folk over at Bedrock Quartz, a Utah countertop installation company, tell us that despite durable materials able to withstand scratches, stains, nicks and years of use, proactive maintenance keeps these high-traffic areas looking pristine even longer.
Clean Using Non-Abrasive Supplies
Skip the stiff brushes, scouring pads and harsh chemical cleaners that scratch, corrode and dull countertop finishes prematurely. For routine maintenance, instead use a mild eco-friendly soap diluted with warm water. The small grease-cutting surfactants lift soil without stripping protective sealants. For stuck-on messes, swap in a specialized store-bought cleaner formulated specifically for your countertop material checking manufacturer guidance. In order to avoid water marks and streaks that set in over time, it’s important to always finish cleaning by using a soft towel for a gentle wipe-down.
Seal Materials with Protective Finishes
Penetrating sealants safeguard porous materials like natural stone, concrete, grout and wood from stains by waterproofing surfaces while still allowing breathability. Apply a specialty impregnating sealer yearly, reapplying whenever moisture absorbs rather than beads. This invisible shield prevents not only stubborn staining but also inhibits germ and mold growth within tiny porous fissures. For other materials like quartz, laminate or solid surface, manufacturers apply durable multi-layer resin shields during fabrication. Reseal if glossy top coats appear compromised, show unusual water absorption or white marks signaling finish erosion.
Use Cutting Boards
Chopping fruits, vegetables, proteins and baked goods directly on countertop surfaces inevitably creates microscopic scratches and slices incrementally damaging lusters. Instead, always lay washable boards down first. Place damp towels or shelf liners underneath to prevent slipping and sliding during vigorous prep work saving counters from accidental skewer stabs.
Employ Heat Protection
Exposure to extreme hot and cold can damage resin coatings and cause cracking issues over time. Use flame resistant hot pads, trivets or silicone guard sheets when placing hot pots, pans or bakeware fresh from ovens and ranges. Allow ample cooling first before direct contact.
Stage Decluttered Counter Zones
A clutter-free countertop appears cleaner, larger and more upscale. Make a habit of clearing small appliances to storage daily when not in use. Use organizers, hanging racks and specialty caddies to neatly store bulkier gadgetry, keeping counters clean and intentional rather than haphazardly stuffed. Open space expands the feeling of rooms dramatically and clears visual field to detect dirt rapidly for quicker wipe ups.
Address Damage Promptly
Accidents happen despite even the most vigilant precautions. Repair any etching, chipping, scratches, cracks, heat marks, or stains immediately to prevent further damage. Touch up kits and DIY crack repairs keep little incidents from ballooning into costly replacements. If left unchecked, moisture penetrates deep into the material, causing extensive damage.
Reinforce Structural Supports
Hairline cracks typically indicate structural weaknesses allowing subtle shifts that eventually fracture finishes more extensively. If cracks develop, cease use immediately. Reinforce supports and underlying layers to adequate depth before replacing damaged top sections. Allow ample overhang space for fixtures, backsplashes and design elements that disguise rather than accentuate any hints of movement.
Conclusion
Regular care will keep your kitchen countertops looking and working great. Protecting these valuable surfaces and avoiding early wear requires consistent upkeep, including daily cleaning and annual sealing. Though these preventative measures seem like more work now, they’ll save you money on countertop replacements in the long run. For best results, remember to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines, as care needs vary greatly depending on the material. By using these strategies, your countertops will remain functional and visually appealing for many years.
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