What can damage granite countertops?

• <div><p>Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:</p><ul><li><p>Citrus</p></li><li><p>Acetone nail polish remover</p></li><li><p>Tomatoes</p></li><li><p>Ammonia</p></li></ul><p>In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.</p></div>

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Q: How long will it take to complete stone restoration work?

• <div><p>How long it takes to complete stone restoration work will vary from home to home and project to project. Overall, a professional can complete a one-room project in one to two days. When vetting your local contractors, be sure to ask them how long they think the project will take to factor in any that could speed up or prolong the completion of the project.</p></div>

Q: Does soapstone crack easily?

• <div><p>No, soapstone does not crack easily. The softness of the material protects it from cracking but makes it prone to other types of damage such as scratches. Scratches may need to be buffed out occasionally using fine-grit sandpaper. You can also conceal minor scratches in your soapstone countertops by rubbing the surface with mineral oil.</p></div>

Q: What maintenance keeps stone surfaces looking their best?

• <div><p>Maintenance includes regular cleaning with appropriate products, periodic sealing to protect against staining and wear, and addressing minor issues before they escalate.</p></div>

Q: How often should I seal soapstone?

• <div><p>Due to soapstone's non-porous nature and antimicrobial properties, you don&rsquo;t need to seal it like other stone materials like marble or granite. However, even though sealing isn't required, it can enhance soapstone's natural stain resistance. Another protective option is to apply mineral oil once per month.</p></div>

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Buffing and Polishing questions, answered by experts

How long it takes to complete stone restoration work will vary from home to home and project to project. Overall, a professional can complete a one-room project in one to two days. When vetting your local contractors, be sure to ask them how long they think the project will take to factor in any that could speed up or prolong the completion of the project.

No, soapstone does not crack easily. The softness of the material protects it from cracking but makes it prone to other types of damage such as scratches. Scratches may need to be buffed out occasionally using fine-grit sandpaper. You can also conceal minor scratches in your soapstone countertops by rubbing the surface with mineral oil.

Maintenance includes regular cleaning with appropriate products, periodic sealing to protect against staining and wear, and addressing minor issues before they escalate.

Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:

Citrus
Acetone nail polish remover
Tomatoes
Ammonia

In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.

Due to soapstone's non-porous nature and antimicrobial properties, you don’t need to seal it like other stone materials like marble or granite. However, even though sealing isn't required, it can enhance soapstone's natural stain resistance. Another protective option is to apply mineral oil once per month.

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