One of the best things about granite is that it comes in so many different colors. This means you can choose a granite countertop that suits your home, no matter the style. Black is a popular color for granite kitchen and bathroom countertops that provide a striking appearance. But black granite countertops also differ slightly when it comes to cleaning and maintaining them. Let’s look at some guidelines for cleaning and sealing your black granite countertops.
Do black granite countertops need sealing?
Sealing your countertops is a great way to defend against stains and scratches, adding an extra layer of protection and reducing the porosity of the granite. However, black granite is typically denser than other styles of granite, meaning it is naturally less porous. As a result, it does not absorb liquids as readily and is, therefore, less likely to stain.
Plus, since it is less porous, black granite also doesn’t take up sealant as readily as other granite, making sealing your countertops more difficult, particularly if they have a polished finish.
So, black granite countertops are less likely to need sealing than others, but each slab is different. The best way to determine whether or not your kitchen countertops need sealing is to pour a few drops of water on it and see how quickly it is absorbed. You can also perform this test with lemon juice or cooking oil to see if a stain is left behind, but it is better to test this on a sample of the granite before installing your countertops.
How to clean black granite countertops
Because black granite countertops are less porous, this also typically makes them easier to clean and maintain. Any spills are more likely to stay on the surface without leaving a stain behind, but you should still soak up the liquid as quickly as you can with a paper towel or a dry cloth. Then, wipe down the surface with a soft, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Even when there aren’t spills, you should wipe down your granite surfaces at least a few times a week to keep them in top condition. As with all granite, you should avoid using harshly acidic or chemical cleaning solutions. Dish soap mixed with warm water is usually all you need to keep your black granite countertops clean. Or you can buy a specialized granite cleaning solution.
If you need help maintaining your granite countertops, then get in touch with us for support around Winston Salem, Greensboro, High Point, and Kernersville.
