Ask Julie

Are my granite counters sealed? 

Dear Julie,

I recently had new granite counters installed in my home and since then I've been told be several friends that their contractor did not seal the counters at the time on installation. How can I tell if mine have been sealed?

Sherilyn Klueber
Louisville, KY

Dear Sherilyn,

One method you can use to check if your granite needs to be resealed is to sprinkle some water on your countertops. If the water soaks into the stone and does not bead up, then we would recommend resealing or in your case sealing your granite. With proper care, the seal with last for years. I recommend Ultimate Pro. It does a great job and you can see the difference right away!

How di I get water deposites off my granite and marble? 

Dear Julie,

My countertops are sealed but I still have hard water build-up all around my sink.  How can I remove them seafely - can I use an acid based cleaner? 

Carole Otto
Brea, CA

Dear Carole,

The best way to remove hard water deposits is with StonePro Stone Scrub.  This is a great cleaner and deposit remover and DOES NOT contain acid..  It has a citrus base to it that also searves to degrease the surface.  It smells great and works even better.  A note about acid cleaners: Acid cleaners like StonePro Quick Clean can be used on granite but NOT marble.  Calcium-based stones like marble and travertine will be damaged by the acid.  Please be aware that granite that has been treated to enhance it's color will also react to the acid and demage the surface.  This may have been done at the quarry and you may not be aware of it.  Also acid based cleaners can damage metal sinks and fixures, Stone Scrub is your best bet!  To minimize the reoccurance of water deposits use Crystal Clean Daily Cleaner and Finishing Touch Polish.  They will work together to repel the water.