How granite, marble, quartz, porcelain, wood and other surfaces differ in daily care, sealing and cleaning products.
Every surface has a simple routine. Granite and other natural stones need mild cleaners and periodic sealing. Marble needs the same and gentle handling of acids. Quartz needs mild soap and water and no sealing. Porcelain wipes clean with almost anything gentle. Wood needs oil or a protective finish. Solid surface can be sanded. Laminate wipes clean but fears standing water and heat. Following the right routine prevents most problems.
The most common mistakes are the wrong cleaner, forgetting to reseal and using the counter as a cutting board or a hot pad. Vinegar and acidic cleaners dull marble. Harsh chemicals dull quartz. Abrasive pads scratch. We give you a plain, written care routine for your material at installation and offer cleaning and sealing visits. In Nashville, a yearly check with a water test is a good habit for stone.
Mild cleaner, seal about once a year.
Gentle cleaner, avoid acids, seal.
Soap and water, no sealing.
Easy wipe-down, no sealing.
Oil or protect, wipe water.
Wipe clean, avoid heat and standing water.
Granite CountertopsNatural granite countertops, fabricated from slabs you choose, with edges, cutouts and sealing done right.Explore 
Marble CountertopsClassic marble countertops with soft veining, honed or polished, installed with an honest look at care.Explore 
Slate CountertopsDark, textured slate countertops for rustic and modern spaces, with sealing and care explained.Explore 
Remnant and Small Project CountertopsStone and quartz remnants made into vanity tops, bars, laundry counters, shelves and small surfaces.Explore 
Countertop RepairHonest assessment and repair of chips, cracks, stains, seams and worn surfaces on stone, quartz and more.Explore 
Burn and Scratch RepairScorch marks and scratches treated on quartz, solid surface, laminate and stone, with honest expectations.Explore Check problems, pick a material or ballpark a budget.
Countertop Problem Checker: What Is Wrong?Pick what you see on a countertop to get likely causes, what to do first and the service page that fits.Try it 
Countertop Material PickerAnswer a few questions about how you cook, clean and live to see which countertop materials usually fit best.Try it 
Countertop Budget PlannerPick a material or job, set the square footage and add extras to see a ballpark planning range for your countertop project.Try it Many owners seal about once a year. A water test shows when.
Mild dish soap and water, or a cleaner made for your surface.
Not on natural stone. It can dull and etch the surface.
Topic guideCountertop MaterialsGranite, quartz, marble, quartzite, porcelain, solid surface, butcher block, concrete and laminate compared for upkeep, strength, heat and…Learn more 
Topic guideNatural vs EngineeredNatural stone and engineered surfaces compared for variation, maintenance, durability and the way they age.Learn more 
Topic guideEdge ProfilesEased, beveled, bullnose, ogee, mitered and waterfall edges compared for style, safety and cleaning.Learn more 
Topic guideCountertop FinishesPolished, honed, leathered and brushed finishes compared for sheen, fingerprints, etching and cleaning.Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will look at your space, talk through materials and give you a clear written estimate.
