Owens Corning
Kitchen Countertop Care Tips
All the countertop material need the proper care to keep them looking great. In food areas, a good anti-bacterial soap should be used. All countertops should be cleaned immediately after food preparation. Water should not be allowed to sit. Here are some care tips for countertops:

Laminates:
Harsh abrasive cleaners should be avoided. Do not use soft scrub, comet, Ajax etc. Avoid large amounts of water. Do not cut on the laminate, use a cutting board. Do not place hot pots or pans on surface, use a hot plate.

Solid Surface:
Mars and scratches can be removed by sanding with wet/dry sandpaper. Many manufactures provide repair kits. Avoid placing hot pots and pans on surfaces. Light staining can be removed with abrasive cleaners.

Stone:
All stone surfaces should be sealed with a good penetrating silicone sealer. Clean spills from surface immediately. Avoid splashing from hot oil. Stains can be removed by using packaged poultice powders(available from home centers and stone suppliers). Do not use acid cleaners.

Tile:
Clean tile surfaces often. Grout should be cleaned with bleach and water and a soft scrub or tooth brush. Avoid dropping heavy objects on tile to avoid chipping. Abrasive cleaners are OK to use.

Wood Butcher Block:
Scratches can be repaired with sandpaper. An application on mineral oil will protect and preserve the surface. Avoid flooding to prevent warping.

One Last Word
Regardless of the countertop material you chose, always obtain care directions from the manufacturer.


Written by Fred Heuston, tile and marble expert; author
Reprinted with permission. HouseNet, Inc.

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