A beautiful countertop can transform your kitchen’s look, boost home value, and serve you for years-but only if it’s properly maintained. Unfortunately, misinformation runs rampant when it comes to taking care of different countertop materials. In Canada’s diverse housing market, where quartz, granite, laminate, marble, and emerging surfaces coexist, it’s easy to fall for outdated or flat-out wrong advice.
In this article, we debunk the most common myths about countertop maintenance and give you practical, designer-approved solutions to keep your surfaces in top condition.
The truth: While quartz is durable, it’s not invincible. It can be damaged by high heat, harsh chemicals, or improper cleaning tools.
What to do instead: Always use trivets under hot pots and pans. Clean daily with a soft cloth and mild soap or a quartz-specific cleaner. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or anything containing bleach.
The truth: Granite is porous and can absorb liquids, leading to staining and bacterial buildup if not sealed regularly.
What to do instead: Seal your granite countertop at least once a year. To test if it needs sealing, drip a small amount of water on the surface—if it soaks in within minutes, it’s time to reseal.
The truth: While vinegar is a popular natural cleaner, it can damage stone surfaces like marble, granite, and some types of engineered stone.
What to do instead: Stick to pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone or the surface type you have. For tough spots, use baking soda paste (only if approved for your surface).
The truth: Modern laminate is much stronger than its predecessors and can last over a decade with proper care.
What to do instead: Use cutting boards, avoid placing hot pans directly on the surface, and clean with a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser.
The truth: Marble requires care, but it can absolutely thrive in a kitchen—especially in homes where aesthetics are a top priority.
What to do instead: Seal marble regularly, wipe spills quickly, and avoid acidic substances like lemon juice. Embrace its natural aging process (a.k.a. patina) rather than fearing it.
The truth: While regular upkeep is key, some issues require professional intervention. Stains, etching, or chips may worsen if handled improperly.
What to do instead: For anything beyond routine cleaning or sealing, call a professional. Many Canadian cities have surface specialists who can restore or repair damage without needing full replacement.
Different countertop materials require different types of care. A one-size-fits-all approach can shorten the lifespan of your surfaces.
Your countertops are among the most-used surfaces in your home. Whether you’re slicing vegetables, serving coffee, or just admiring the finish under morning light, those surfaces matter.
By busting these myths and committing to the right maintenance habits, you’re not just preserving beauty-you’re protecting your investment.
At TecCorp Stone, we help Canadian homeowners choose and care for countertops that last. Because the right surface, maintained properly, can serve your family for generations.
