Summer Sips & Samples: A Taste of PorcelainFri, June 1212 to 4 PM
Register
Stocking Program
Contact Us
(336)-299-3030
(336)-299-3030
Contact Us
Stocking Program
(336)-299-3030
Contact Us

Use and Care Guide

How to Keep Your Countertops Looking Their Best

Proper care and maintenance will keep your countertops looking beautiful for years. Whether you have cultured marble, solid surface, natural stone, or quartz, following these simple guidelines will help protect your investment and maintain its original elegance.

Cultured Marble Care

Keeping Your Cultured Marble Beautiful

Cultured marble, granite, and onyx are designed to mimic the look of natural stone while offering greater durability and easier maintenance. To maintain its beauty, follow these simple care tips:

What to Do:

  • Wax for Protection – Apply Gel-Gloss, automotive paste wax, or polish before use, then buff to a shine. This enhances luster, makes cleaning easier, and increases scratch resistance.
  • Mix Your Water – Prevent cracking and crazing around the drain by running both hot and cold water together to balance temperature changes.
  • Buff Small Scratches – Light scratches can be removed with 600-grit sandpaper followed by a polishing compound like Turtle Wax White Polishing Compound.
  • Clean Messes Quickly – Wipe up toothpaste, hair gel, and spills immediately to avoid stains that may be difficult to remove.

What to Avoid:

  • No Abrasive Cleaners – Avoid products like Comet, Ajax, or Soft Scrub. Use non-abrasive cleaners like Windex or mild soap with a damp cloth.
  • No Ammonia on Jets & Plated Components – Whirlpool tub jets and plated finishes should only be cleaned with water to prevent damage.
  • Avoid Sharp or Hot Objects – Do not tap or leave sharp or hot objects on the surface, as this may lead to scratches or burns.
  • Move Décor Frequently – Leaving objects in one place for too long may cause discoloration, especially in humid areas where rust may form.
Download PDF

Solid Surface Care

Solid surface countertops are built to withstand daily use, but proper care ensures they maintain their beauty for years.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Use a damp cloth and mild cleanser for everyday cleaning.
  • For matte finishes, you can use abrasive cleaners like Ajax or Comet.
  • Clean the entire surface periodically in a circular motion to maintain uniformity.

Preventing Damage

  • Heat Protection – Use trivets or hot pads to prevent damage from extreme temperature changes. If a scorch mark occurs from a cigarette or other heat source, buff in a circular motion with a Scotch-Brite pad.
  • Scratch Removal – Light scratches can be sanded out using fine-grit sandpaper, working in a straight line before blending with a Scotch-Brite pad.

Removing Stubborn Stains:

  • Use full-strength bleach for stains like food dye, tea, and fruit drinks, but do not leave bleach on the surface for more than five minutes.
  • Flush thoroughly with water after cleaning.
Download PDF

Natural Stone Care (Granite & Marble)

Granite and marble countertops require routine maintenance to keep them looking pristine.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Use a mild dish soap solution and warm water for daily cleaning.
  • Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
  • Seal granite countertops periodically to maintain resistance to stains and spills.

Preventing Damage:

  • Use Coasters & Hot Pads – Protect the stone from extreme temperature changes by using coasters under drinks and trivets for hot cookware.
  • Avoid Acidic Cleaners – Do not use vinegar, lemon juice, or harsh chemicals that could erode the stone’s surface.

Removing Stubborn Stains:

  • For deep stains, create a poultice using dish soap and white flour, then apply plastic wrap over the paste overnight.
  • For grease stains, use hydrogen peroxide mixed with water.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to cleaning chemicals, which may dull the stone’s finish.
Download PDF

Quartz Care

Quartz is a highly durable, non-porous surface that requires minimal upkeep, but proper care ensures long-lasting beauty.

Routine Cleaning:

  • Wipe down quartz with mild detergent and warm water.
  • Use a damp cloth with a non-abrasive cleaner for daily maintenance.
  • Always rinse thoroughly to prevent streaking or residue buildup.

Preventing Damage:

  • Heat Protection – While quartz is heat-resistant, always use trivets or hot pads to avoid potential damage from sudden temperature changes.
  • Avoid Cutting on the Surface – While scratch-resistant, quartz can be damaged by sharp knives. Always use a cutting board.
  • No Harsh Chemicals – Avoid cleaners with ammonia, paint removers, or battery acid, as they can discolor or damage the surface.

Removing Stubborn Stains:

  • Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to remove dried substances like gum, glue, or nail polish.
  • For stubborn stains, use a mix of water and white vinegar or household cleaners such as:
    • Clorox Disinfecting Kitchen Cleaner
    • Clorox Wipes (Bleach Free)
    • Method Go Naked Wipes
    • Simple Green Extreme Clean or Lemon Fresh Cleaners
    • Lysol Disinfecting Wipes
    • Lysol Food Surface Sanitizer
    • Windex Multi-Surface Cleaner with Vinegar
    • Formula 409 Glass and Surface Cleaner

By following these simple care and maintenance tips, your countertops will stay looking their best for years to come. If you have additional questions or need professional advice, visit our showroom or contact our team today.

Get More Information

Our team will reach out to you shortly about the sale