Trinity Granite & Marble presents the best way to care for and maintain your custom granite and marble countertops.

Q: How do I care for my stone?

A: If Trinity Granite & Marble fabricated your project, all pieces will have been sealed with an impregnator, which penetrates the natural pits and veins present in natural stone.

We suggest that you use mild soap and water as a daily cleaner (without moisturizers and citrus scents or cleaning agents)

Avoid ammonia and abrasives, which may breakdown the sealant over time.

Wipe up food and spills as soon as possible.

Use cleaner/polish/protectant weekly.

Use coasters, trivets and hot pads.

Cutting directly on your granite tops will dull your knives.

Do not stand or sit on your tops.  

Q: What if I accidentally stain my granite countertop?

A: Much will depend on the type of stain. Always try mild soap and warm water first. If this does not remove the stain, you may try a poultice solution: mix baking soda and water to thick pour-able consistency, apply a thick layer to the stain, cover and let sit until dry. If the problem persists, call us.  

Q: Will the sealer wipe off when cleaned, or scratch off with wear?

A: No. The sealer is not a coating on top of the stone, it is an impregnator, which is absorbed by the stone and fills the pores in order to repel food and liquid. Over time, cleaners do reduce the effectiveness of the sealer, requiring re-sealing of the stone. Resealing could be necessary every 1-5 years, depending on the material and sealer used.  

Q: My countertops seem dull; what can I do to restore the original luster?

A: First, be certain that you are using the recommended cleaning products. Products like Windex and Soft Scrub will dull the original polished surface. Trinity Granite & Marble carries a cleaner, polish, protectant, which may be used weekly. It is a simple process and will temporarily intensify the original reflective qualities of your stone surface.  

Q: Will granite stain?

A: No. However, granite porosities vary. Some granite if not properly sealed can absorb liquid into the pores. This may appear at first to stain; however in many instances a dark area on the countertop will dry and disappear over time.  

Q: Will the polish on my countertops wear off over time?

A: That depends on whether you have granite or marble. Granite, with normal wear and tear, no. That doesn’t mean that if you attack your granite with a belt sander it won’t dull the finish. The only things that could scratch granite are typically not found in the kitchen. Marble, on the other hand, is a calcite, which will react with acidic liquids, etching the polish. Proper sealing and maintenance is more crucial with marble countertops.

 
Q: Can marble countertops be refinished once they become scratched?

A: Yes. Marble can be refinished through a process of grinding and repolishing. The process will vary depending on the damage or wear. This is not a do it yourself project and requires a professional refinisher.

Q: How do you know when granite needs to be re-sealed?

A: Many people in the industry recommend an annual re-sealing of your stone. However, many types of granite are harder than others and may never need to be re-sealed. If you notice water absorption into the countertop or darker areas around the sink that is an indicator it is time to re-seal.  

Q: Can my countertop burn or crack?

A: No, granite is not susceptible to burning or cracking with normal use. Sometimes granite may crack during delivery or installation. You should never stand or sit on your granite tops. We strongly suggest that you invest in a good stepladder for changing light bulbs and putting dishes away on the top shelf.  

Q: How does most damage to granite or marble tops occur?

A: Believe it or not, most damage occurs due to a lack of education. Share this information with the people in your household (children/spouse), as well as cleaning services, which you may employ. Try to be proactive about the care of your tops; this will help to avoid costly restoration fees.