Stone Maintenance
Quartz Maintenance
Quartz requires zero maintenance. Since Quartz Countertops are man made, they are filled with materials that do not require surface sealing.
Granite Maintenance
Modern Countertops adds a 15 year seal on their granite countertops before they are sent on installation. With high traffic areas, the countertop may need to be resealed sooner than suggested. Shop online to find the best deals on Granite Sealer.
Cutting on Granite / Quartz Countertops
We do not recommend cutting on the natural stone surface. Though it is unlikely for a knife to cause damage to the surface, it is still a possible with certain stones.
Cleaning Granite / Quartz Countertops
We recommend non-aggressive soaps for cleaning your stone surfaces. This includes dish soaps like Dawn, Palmolive, Ajax, Etc. A non-aggressive scotch pad is ideal for scrubing the countertop. Do not use products with Ammonia or Bleach in them. This can cause a breakdown in both the glues in Quartz and the sealer in Granite.
Dealing with Stains
Most stains can be removed from all stones. The first thing you will need to do is identify what has caused the stain. Then you will create a mix called a poultice. For oil based stains (i.e. cooking oils, lipstick, pizza grease, etc.) you need to combine cornstarch and paint thinner. For organic stains (i.e. fruit juice, wine, etc.) you need to combine cornstarch and hydrogen peroxide. Once you have identified your stain and gathered the necessary ingredients, you will need to add your liquid to your cornstarch until you have a paste-like consistency. Once you have your poultice paste you need to apply it to your stain, completely covering the stain. Then you will cover the poultice paste with plastic wrap and masking tape. To finish you will need to apply a heavy book on top. Let the poultice paste dry completely, this usually takes a day or longer. Once dry, scrape away the poultice, this should result in the removal or lighting of the stain. Repeat as needed or necessary.
Hot Surfaces on Countertops
Generally, hot pots and pans will not damage natural stone countertops. With that being said, Modern Countertops recommends the use of a hot pad when laying hot objects on the countertop. Quartz surfaces are very susceptible to burning due to the resins contained in the quartz.
The Dos and Dont's of Stone Care
• Do clean up spills immediately to minimize damage to your stone.
• Do use trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware.
• Do use place mats under china, ceramics, silver, and other objects that can scratch your stone's surface.
• Do use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.
• Do clean surfaces regularly with hot water and soap.
• Don't wait to clean spills on stone.
• Don't use cleaners that contain bleach, vinegar, ammonia, or other general-purpose cleaners.
• Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
• Don't use scouring powders or sponges because they will scratch the surface.