Granite: Natural stone

Pros/cons:

• Highly durable

• Heat resistant

• Stain resistant if sealed properly

• Holds up against chemicals

• Wide range of colors and styles

• Each slab is unique

• Long lifespan

• Expensive

• Not easy to repair

• Need to reseal every few years

• Corners and edges can chip, despite overall durability of the countertop 

How to clean and maintain granite:

• Use a soft cloth or sponge and wash daily with warm, soapy water (suggest 1 teaspoon dish soap to four cups of water in a spray bottle). Avoid standing water so wring out cloth/sponge before you wipe. Dry countertop.

• For a deeper clean, use a special granite cleaner or make one with dish detergent and rubbing alcohol

• Do NOT use the following in granite: ammonia, vinegar, citrus cleaners, bleach, grout cleaner, bath tile cleaner, glass cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, disinfectants (think Lysol wipes)