Tag Archive 'granite countertops'

Dec 01 2009

Clean Granite Tiles Last Much Longer

Granite tiles are very hard and durable compared to other types of tiles you can use for your home. No matter where you have installed granite tiles, they are sure to serve you for a very long time. But to further guarantee their endurance, you must take care of them very well. Here, we will be discussing the rather simple ways of how to clean granite tile in your home.

Because of their inherent durability, maintaining clean granite tiles is not that hard at all. If you have a granite countertop in your kitchen, just make sure you clean it after each time you cook. Wet a soft cloth and use that to apply dishwashing soap on the countertop, and voila! – you have clean granite tiles instantly.

There is one thing you have to know about granite tiles, though. Even though the rock itself is very hard and resistant to scratching, granite tiles are covered in a kind of sealant. This sealant give the granite tiles their shine and protects them from getting stained.

Acids are damaging to the sealant, and there are actually many common household chemicals that are acidic, such as cleaners, acidic solutions, hairspray, toothpaste, and perfumes. Acids can also be found in certain foods like orange juice, coffee, vinegar, and a lot more. It is vital to clean granite tiles right away when these kinds of substances are spilled onto the surface.

This is best done by employing the use of a sponge to soak in the offending substance first. Do not wipe it right away, as the spreading of the acid might aggravate the situation. Also, if there are tiny granules in the spilled substance, take extra care in removing them as well, to avoid grazing the sealant.

When wiping down your granite tiles, try to avoid using the acidic detergents or cleaners. Instead of ending up with clean granite tiles, you will just be helping in weakening the granite’s protective sealant. Instead, use those cleaners that have a neutral pH balance. There are also certain cleaners specifically designed for granite tiles. It may be more difficult to use these, though.

Even when you are certain that you have clean granite tiles all the time, and even if the sealant looks fine to you, it is advisable to reapply a coat of sealant about twice a year. When your granite tiles are installed in an area where there is much spillage going on, then you would have to reapply sealant more often. The frequency really depends on where your granite tiles are installed and how they are being used.

You can also find more info on Marble Granite Countertops and Clean Granite Tile. Kitchengranitecountertophelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Kitchen Granite Counter Top.

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Nov 03 2009

How To Install Granite Countertops

Installing granite countertops requires expertise. Granite countertop cost more than other kitchen countertop material. By choosing to install granites, you have taken the correct decision. Granite countertops lend an aesthetic and elegant appeal to the kitchen.

 

 

So, what are all the steps involved in granite installation.

 

  1. Granite Choosing- You need to choose the countertop. Granites come in variety of colors, texture, and designs. Granites available at California Bay Area have the largest collection of granites. Your decision will based on the interior of the kitchen. The countertop should gel with the interiors. Mismatched countertop will ruin the attraction of the kitchen.
  2. Pre Installation- You need to remove the already existing countertop before installing the new one. Also, remove any attachments and basins beforehand. In totality, the area where you want to install the countertop must be clear of all things.
  3. Designing- Select the design you want the professionals to mould the granite into. Again, the deciding factor of the countertop will depend on the overall look you want to give the kitchen. In addition, differences will come if you are using granite slabs or granite tiles. It is easy to mould the slabs and the tile designing is more time consuming.
  4. Measurement- The company that you have hired for professional installation will send their representative over at your home to measure the space and determine the installations required. They will let you know what type of cabinets, or templates, or seams are needed for countertop installations. Sometimes specialized tools are also required, and the professionals are of a great help. With all measurements are hand, they will give you a rough estimate as to how much the installation will cost.
  5. Support Creation- Before the countertops installation begin, the area needs to be made strong with the help of metal rods and plywood. A weak area with an equally weak support system will not be able to handle the weight of granite. As much as they are hard, they are heavy too.
  6. Installation- The designing of granite will be done either at your home or at the company’s factory, the choice is yours to decide. After the granite is given a shape, the professionals will install it on the designated space and glue it. 
  7. Sealing- This process is important to keep the slab safe and shiny as ever. Repeat the sealing every 6 months to keep the slabs glossy as ever.

 

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