 Granite countertops are impressively durable and aesthetically pleasing, perfect for practically any kitchen or bathroom in homes and businesses. These countertops are often installed with a protective seal, but if you’re investing in a beautiful granite countertop, then it’s wise to preserve its natural elegance as long as possible by caring for it properly as soon as you begin using it. Granite offers beauty, warmth, and a timeless look to any kitchen or bathroom, and while it is consistently hard, with a very dense grain that is difficult to stain and hard to scratch, it can be susceptible to damage and needs regular care to keep it in good condition. One of the most common questions we get from customers is how to care for their granite countertops once they’re installed, so the following tips aim to provide you with a comprehensive guide to their care. From the granite countertop experts at Castorena’s Granite & Quartz, here are our top tips to care for your granite countertops today. The Importance of Caring for Granite CountertopsGranite countertops are a gorgeous addition to your home, with each being a unique piece of art. They are a significant but incredibly worthwhile investment, and just like a new car or watch, it’s important to care for granite countertops to keep them in the best condition possible and maintain their longevity. When granite is neglected or subjected to certain harsh conditions (such as intense heat or acidic substances), it can quickly lose its luster and appeal and even degrade in its durability. Caring for granite countertops is not a hard or tedious job, but it does require consistent attention and cleaning using the correct types of supplies. If not given the right care, a granite countertop can begin to lose its value, but if cared for correctly, your granite countertop can be a valuable asset for your home or business’s lifetime. 1. Clean RegularlyOur first tip is to clean granite countertops regularly. Regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the appearance and hygiene of your granite. We recommend you clean them down at least twice daily - in fact, most people wipe them down after breakfast and after their last meal of the day. Granite countertops are not difficult to clean; simply use a damp microfiber cloth and dry off the excess water, if there is any. To clean them effectively, it’s important to use a mild soap and not strong, harmful detergents. If you have marks on your countertop, use a pH-neutral soap or cleaning solution with some warm water, wipe with a damp microfiber cloth, and buff up with another. Buffing your granite surface after cleaning will keep the surface looking shiny by eliminating water spots and streaks. 2. Use the Right Cleaning MaterialsIn relation to the above, our next tip is to make sure that you use the right cleaning materials. Ensure that you clean your granite with a neutral base cleaner using warm water and any light, neutral (pH7) soap. Specialized marble and granite cleaner is also recommended and can be easily purchased at most hardware stores or online. Using microfiber cleaning cloths is also the best choice as it helps clean granite without leaving any smears, and household spray polish like Pledge can occasionally be applied to the granite to keep it shining. Be sure to never use cleaning products or supplies that can scour the surface as it will most likely leave scratches and abrasions on the sealant or onto the underlying surface, and avoid using cleaning products that are alkaline, chlorine, bleach, or acidic-based as these will also damage, dull, or even discolor the surface. 3. Keep Granite Countertops SealedIn relation to the above, our next tip is to make sure that you use the right cleaning materials. Ensure that you clean your granite with a neutral base cleaner using warm water and any light, neutral (pH7) soap. Specialized marble and granite cleaner is also recommended and can be easily purchased at most hardware stores or online. Using microfiber cleaning cloths is also the best choice as it helps clean granite without leaving any smears, and household spray polish like Pledge can occasionally be applied to the granite to keep it shining. Be sure to never use cleaning products or supplies that can scour the surface as it will most likely leave scratches and abrasions on the sealant or onto the underlying surface, and avoid using cleaning products that are alkaline, chlorine, bleach, or acidic-based as these will also damage, dull, or even discolor the surface. 4. Beware Potential HarmAs we mentioned previously, there are some products and items that pose a threat to your granite countertop. One tip for granite countertop care is, therefore, to avoid exposing your granite countertop to potential harm such as excessive heat (placing a hot pan directly on the surface), acidic or chemical materials (wine, fruit juices, nail varnish remover, citrus, etc.), scratch-capable items (knives, abrasive clothes), and stain-capable items (red wine, berries, curry, beetroot, etc.). Some of these dangers will simply require extra care to avoid spillage while others, such as items that can cause scratches, can be avoided by using protective coverings such as a cutting board when using a knife. If there is a spill, always try to clean it up as fast as possible. 5. Polish and RestoreOur final tip is always to go the extra mile when it comes to care, and that means giving your granite countertops polish and restoration treatment from time to time. Polishing your granite countertops will enhance their natural beauty and provide a protective layer against stains and scratches. For countertops that have lost their shine, consider using a granite enhancer to restore their luster. Follow the product’s instructions, and your countertops will be gleaming in no time. Contact Castorena’s For Granite Countertop Installation and ResealingGranite countertops are extremely popular due to their timeless beauty and natural beauty that create the perfect solution for kitchens and bathrooms. If you’re considering getting a granite countertop for your home or business, be sure to regularly care for it in order to maximize its longevity and get the most out of this wonderful investment. For more information about granite countertop installation or resealing, reach out to Castorena’s Granite & Quartz today!
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 Porcelain and ceramic tiles are some of the most sought-after flooring and wall materials, but it’s not uncommon for there to be some confusion about the differences between the two. Whether you’re looking for the right tile for your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor project, we understand the desire to delve into the details of what you’re investing your money into, and at Castorena’s Granite & Quartz, we have extensive experience and knowledge in order to connect you with the perfect tile installation for your home. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are both known for their durability and versatility and for creating a stunning feature in the home. But which tile type is the best choice for your project? This article stands as a comprehensive guide to these two types of tiles so that you can make the most informed decision possible. What is Porcelain Tile? Porcelain tiles have taken over in popularity over the last few years. Porcelain is a type of ceramic (made from clay, water, and sand), but is fired in a kiln at a higher temperature, absorbing less than 0.5% of the water in their environment, and it uses an especially dense type of clay. This makes porcelain tiles extremely strong, hard-wearing, dense, and less porous than ceramic, making them both frost-resistant and ideal for outdoor use. As porcelain can be both glazed and unglazed, you can get a large variety of textures and patterns, and they work great for both walls and floors. What is Ceramic Tile?Ceramic tiles are typically made of clay, water, and sand (similar to porcelain), all combined in an appropriate ratio. Their main advantage is that they are lightweight, workable, and oftentimes more affordable. They are fired in a kiln at a lower temperature than porcelain, however, and because of this, there are some restrictions in their application. Ceramic tiles are perfect for walls but less so for flooring. Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tile: How Do They Compare? Off the bat, porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles still seem pretty much the same thing. They are made almost identically using the same materials, but they do have significantly different properties that make them advantageous to use in different situations. Let’s dive into the specifics of how they compare head-to-head: Durability Ceramic and porcelain tiles have their durability measured using what’s called a PEI rating. This is because they are tested in accordance with the Porcelain-Enamel Institute. PEI ratings are determined by a measurement of abrasion resistance on a machine which counts the number of revolutions under a standard abrasive load. When the tile shows the damage the revolutions are counted, (from 150 to 1500+) which gives the PEI rating.  Ceramic tiles tend to be around three or four, and porcelain tiles tend to be a four or five. So, in terms of durability, porcelain tiles are certainly a more robust, resilient option. This is usually noticeable as well with their thicker, heavier construction. MaintenanceIn any home, maintenance is an important factor, but especially so for those with small children and pets. Keeping your floor clean with ease is, therefore, very high on the list of priorities for most. So, which is easiest to keep clean, porcelain or ceramic tiles? Again, porcelain takes the crown! Most porcelain tiles are nano-sealed during manufacturing which means their surface is kept protected for longer. They simply need a quick clean with neutral pH cleaner and buffed dry to keep them looking brand new. Ceramic tiles are still easy to clean and maintain, but some will need to be resealed from time to time. Water and Slip Resistance Ceramic tiles tend to have a water absorbency factor of 6-10%, while porcelain will only be around 0.05-0.5%. This means that porcelain tiles will absorb less moisture and therefore be less prone to staining, and it makes them a great choice for areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and even outdoor areas like pools where there is the potential for high moisture. Porcelain also tends to have higher ratings of slip resistance. Cost Cost is always an important factor to consider for any project, and in this regard, ceramic certainly is the more affordable option. Not only is it more budget-friendly as far as materials go, but it will also be easier and less expensive to install. Porcelain is a heavier material, so it is generally more time-consuming to install and expensive to acquire. Installation Similarly to the above, ceramic tiles are far easier to install than porcelain tiles. When it comes to floor or wall installations, the process requires a great deal of organization, transportation of materials, laying out a preferred design, and effectively and accurately placing each tile. Since ceramic tiles are far more lightweight, they will be easier to install in all respects. Versatility In terms of versatility, ceramic tiles have the advantage of being lightweight, easy to cut and shape, and easy to install. Porcelain tiles, on the other hand, absorb less water, are stain resistant, more durable, frost resistant, footfall and abrasion resistant, and can be installed in outdoor projects. Which is Better?So, with the facts laid out before us, which is better: ceramic or porcelain tile? The answer to this primarily depends on what your biggest objectives are for your project. For individuals looking for a budget-friendly option or are only looking to use tiles for a wall project, then ceramic tiles are the perfect low-cost, easy-installation choice. But if your project is for a home’s flooring and needs to stand the test of time, there’s no doubt that the durable and robust porcelain tile will be the tile for you. Whichever tile you deem best for your project, contact the ceramic and porcelain tile experts at Castorena’s Granite & Quartz with questions, or visit our showroom to start building inspiration for your project!
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