quartz, mica, feldspar and other minerals, which is shaped and polish into slabs. It provides a unique pattern, as no two granite slabs are the same. Granite is a popular choice for countertops because of its rich, deep colors and many variations. It is a tough, durable stone that requires little maintenance. There are two types of granite styles to consider when choosing countertops: - Consistent - granite has the same pattern throughout each piece. - Variegated - granite has veins that vary from piece to piece. You can choose between premier granite, which has a better finish and shine, or a commercial granite, which is smooth but more open to staining. On a daily basis, you simply wipe down the granite with a paper towel and soapy water. Never use abrasive cleaning products. Once a year, your service provider should use a sealer to maintain the finish. Don’t let foods with high acid content, like lemon juice or vinegar, remain on the counter’s surface for any length of time as acids can mar the finish.
Marble Marble countertops are another classic choice. Marble is a porous type of metamorphic rock. Marble starts off as either a crystallized limestone or dolostone, with a lot of the mineral calcite in it. It is recommended in bathrooms, tabletop, pass bar or furniture pieces but not kitchen tops. Marble stone is a natural product and simple care and maintenance will continue to keep it looking beautiful for many years. Clean the marble surface with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a soft cloth for best results. Too much cleaner or soap used during cleaning may cause a film residue and cause streaking to occur on your marble sculpture. Never use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble. Always rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams, as these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface. In outdoor pool, patio or hot tub areas, flush
with clear water and use a mild bleach solution to remove algae or moss. Acrylic Solid Surface Solid-surface countertops are a manmade plastic-based material. Is a harden plastic made up of acrylic resin, aluminum trihydroide, pigments and additives. It provides the consumer with a wider variety of colours and patterns than the granite and quartz. Unlike granite or marble, solid surface is renewable, nonporous, and will not support the growth of bacteria and is heat resistant when kept in low heat. Heat damage next to cook tops and ranges is possible, most often seen as cracks in corners or near the largest burners. Because of the kind of material when scratched, it does not show on the darker colours. Scratches however, can be easy removed by your service provider. For stains and dirt use soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaning product, rinse and towel dry. To avoid water spots wipe with a soft damped cloth or paper towel. To disinfect the counter top, occasionally wipe the surface with a diluted 1:1 ratio of water and household bleach. BF
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