As a stunning addition to your Los Angeles home, you will want to make sure your granite countertops are properly cared for. Daily and long-term maintenance is a must, especially if you are looking to extend the life of your granite and get a return on your investment in the future.

As a new granite owner it is more important than ever that you care for your countertops. So, we’ve put together a simple guide that will help you stay on top of maintenance and keep your investment in the best shape possible.

Your countertops get a lot of use, which is why daily care is essential. Clean your granite countertops with a soft cloth, warm water and mild detergent. Remember that granite is a natural stone which has porous qualities, so will need to be rinsed thoroughly and dried.

Spills will happen in your kitchen, but it will be extremely important that you clean your granite countertops quickly. Again they are porous and the longer a spill sits, the more time it has to soak in. Blot lightly with a soft cloth before using warm water and a mild cleaner on the area. This will help keep you stone looking fresh and new.

Yes, granite countertops are a little “high maintenance”, but well worth it. One of your duties as a granite owner is to properly seal your countertops and surfaces. Choose a sealer that has a fluorocarbon aliphatic resin. It will be more expensive, but will offer you longer protection.

You will want to clean your granite countertops with a mild dish soap and water before sealing. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, preferably for 24 hours. Then you will put on your gloves and give your room ventilation before spraying down the sealer. Keep in mind the area should be damp, but not soaking wet. Let the sealer absorb into the area for the label’s recommended time, apply more if needed, then wipe before letting it “cure” for a standard 48 hours. This means limited use and no washing.

Although granite has a reputation for withstanding heat well, that doesn’t mean you should push it. When placing a hot dish or household item on your countertops, make sure you are protecting them. Utilize potholders and trivets in order to keep your granite looking new.

The products you use on your granite countertops is critical to its’ survival. Avoid any cleaners with ammonia, bleach and alkaline chemicals. Your best bet will be to choose a mild detergent or a product that is specifically created for granite.

Now that you’ve read our granite care guide, you are ready to extend the life of your countertops. Put these simple practices to use and be sure to share your results with us in the comments below.