Stone Care & Maintenance: Cleaning, Sealing, and Long-Term Protection
Countertops are more than a design feature — they are a working surface used every day. Proper care ensures stone surfaces look beautiful and perform well for decades. Different stones require different maintenance, and homeowners in the Bay Area should also consider local conditions like humidity, coastal air, and heavy kitchen use. This guide covers daily cleaning routines, sealing recommendations, repair options, and common FAQs so you can extend the life of your countertops.
Category
Services
Reading Time
Daily Cleaning by Stone Type
The first line of defense is consistent, stone-safe cleaning.
Quartz - Non-porous and stain resistant. Use mild soap and water or manufacturer-approved cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals, scouring pads, and direct high heat. Quartz never needs sealing.
Granite - Durable but porous. Use pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that break down sealers. Reseal periodically.
Marble - Softer and more porous. Clean with non-acidic cleaners. Even mild acids like lemon juice can etch marble. Seal regularly and wipe spills immediately.
Quartzite - Very dense but still benefits from sealing. Clean with pH-neutral stone cleaner. Quartzite is more scratch resistant than marble but still requires care.
Porcelain / Sintered slabs - Highly resistant to stains, heat, and UV. Clean with soap and water. No sealing required.
Tip: Always use cutting boards and trivets. Even the most durable stone can scratch or discolor with direct cutting or extreme heat.
Sealing and Long-Term Protection
Natural stones like granite, marble, and quartzite are porous and require sealing to protect against staining and etching.
Initial sealing: Applied at installation by your fabricator.
Resealing schedule: Every 1–3 years depending on stone density and usage. Light-colored stones often require more frequent sealing.
Water test: Place a few drops of water on the surface. If it darkens within 10 minutes, it is time to reseal.
Products: Use only sealers designed for natural stone. Fabricators can recommend the best formulas.
Quartz and porcelain do not require sealing.
Common Issues and How to Handle Them
Even with proper care, issues may arise:
Stains: Oil, wine, or coffee can soak into porous stone. Use a poultice recommended for natural stone.
Etching: Acidic substances (citrus, vinegar, wine) can dull marble. Etching requires professional polishing to restore.
Chips and cracks: Professional repair can fill and blend chips to match surrounding stone.
Seam separation: Over time, seams may need to be re-epoxied or color-matched again.
In most cases, a professional can restore stone to like-new condition without full replacement.
Heat and Scratch Resistance
Quartz: Resistant but not immune. Prolonged direct heat can discolor resin. Always use trivets.
Granite and quartzite: Naturally heat resistant, but sudden thermal shock can cause cracks.
Marble: Softer surface prone to scratching. Use cutting boards.
Porcelain: Highly resistant to both heat and scratches, making it popular for outdoor kitchens.
FAQs About Stone Care
Does quartz need sealing?
No. Quartz is non-porous and requires no sealing.
How often should I seal granite?
Every 1–3 years, depending on color and usage.
Can marble be used in kitchens?
Yes, but it requires diligent care, regular sealing, and realistic expectations about etching.
What cleaners should I avoid?
Avoid vinegar, bleach, ammonia, and abrasive powders. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners designed for stone.
How do I know if my counters need resealing?
Perform the water drop test. If water absorbs quickly, it is time to reseal.
Can heat damage quartz countertops?
Yes. Resin in quartz can scorch or discolor if exposed to prolonged heat. Always use trivets.
What is the best finish for durability?
Polished finishes resist stains best. Honed and leathered finishes can be more forgiving of scratches but may need resealing more often.
Can I fix chips myself?
Small DIY kits exist, but for best results, hire a professional who can color-match and polish repairs seamlessly.
Key Takeaways
Different stones require different cleaning and sealing routines.
Quartz and porcelain are low-maintenance, while marble and granite require more care.
Sealing natural stone is critical to long-term performance.
Most damage can be repaired by a professional without replacement.
Regular maintenance protects your investment and keeps countertops looking new.
Stone surfaces are designed to last for decades, but only if they are properly cared for. With the right cleaning routines, sealing schedules, and occasional professional maintenance, Bay Area homeowners can protect their investment and keep their kitchens and bathrooms looking stunning for years to come. If you'd like to know about our stone maintenance services, reach out!
