Problems with your countertop can ruin your perfect kitchen design. Beautiful natural stone, granite and quartz countertops add elegance and sophistication to your kitchen design, but imperfections can ruin the effect you are looking to achieve.
Cracks along the edges
Edge cracks often occur when heavy cabinets or appliances sit on the edges of your countertop. If you intend to use heavy appliances on the countertop, ensure it is reinforced with additional support to reduce the risk of cracks or to stop existing cracks from worsening.
Cracks can also occur as stress fractures caused by heat damage from appliances. Any heating appliances placed on the countertop should have excellent ventilation to reduce the risk of damage.
Stone looking dull
Many homeowners find that the stone on their countertop starts to dull considerably faster than they may have anticipated. It’s not uncommon for countertops to lose their natural shine, which is often a sign of the cleaning products you have chosen. Swap to a gentler cleaner to help restore the lustre.
The countertop finish also plays a part in the shine. Poor-quality finishes can result in dull stone, so ensure you source your countertop from a reputable supplier with a proven track record for high-quality worktops.
Hot dish stains
There is nothing more upsetting than picking up a hot dish and seeing a nasty stain on your countertop. Any surface can be damaged by heat if the dish is hot enough. How you fix the problem depends on your countertop’s material.
First, clean the area thoroughly so no dirt or debris remain. Laminate worktops are most prone to surface burns. To remove heat stains from laminate, apply toothpaste to the stain, leave it for ten minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush and wipe clean. For stainless-steel countertops, use soda water; for porcelain, use a baking-soda-and-water paste.
Water build-up
Water build-up can occur on granite countertops, often around sink taps, when mineral-rich hard water leaves circular stains. It can be frustrating when scrubbing with water alone has no effect. Use a soft-bristle brush with a gentle cleaner to work the stain, and—if needed—finish with fine steel wool. If that fails, consult your countertop specialist for a dedicated stain remover.
Prevent future water stains by cleaning worktops regularly, paying particular attention to areas where water tends to collect.