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Even granite needs a little TLC Yes, granite is extremely durable. But even this hardest wearing of natural stones has its limits if you want to keep it looking at its best for a lifetime. Here are some helpful tips from Steve Bunyan, MD of Graniteman. You'd be correct in thinking that your granite worktops can withstand pretty much anything. But there are, as always, exceptions to the rule. Standing on them to change a lightbulb, reach high shelves or paint the ceiling (and make sure your decorators heed this too) is bad news. The weight of even an average-sized person can lead to the joints coming apart. Similarly, sitting on worktops can be damaging, and it's also wise to steer clear of weaker areas such as the hob and sink sections. Granite can stand heat, making it perfect for the kitchen, however, extreme exposure to hot metal could prove detrimental. Try to remember to use trivets for hot pans just in case. Also make sure you cut food on a proper chopping board for a number of good reasons. At best, granite will blunt your knives. You could also finish up leaving a residue of steel on the granite which can be removed, but not easily. At worst, knives with tungsten blades (for example, Kitchen Devils) will leave scratches. And, while diamonds may be a girl's best friend, beware of your ring when you pick up stacks of plates or dishes because it will most definitely mark your worktop. Items that get placed on the floor - plastic laundry baskets being a classic example - can pick up shards of flint and other abrasive material. Dust off the bottom before you place on your worktop to avoid the risk of dulling or scratching. Wipe up spillages as soon as possible. Some liquids – such as hot oil, alcohol, decorating chemicals – could stain if left in a pool for too long. And here's one fruit that definitely belongs strictly on the chopping board: lime. It's highly acidic and could etch the surface of your granite if traces of juice are left overnight. Clean your worktops with soapy water and polish dry with a coarse cloth. Avoid proprietary brands as some contain abrasives which could dull the surface. In hard water areas, calcium deposits may build up around taps, drainer grooves, etc. These can be easily removed with vinegar and 0000 grade wire wool. Damp the area with vinegar, leave for five minutes and then scrub with the wire wool. Any minor residues can be covered with wax and polished. (Shoe polish is ideal, but do make sure the shade is appropriate for obvious reasons.) And in case you were at all worried, 0000 wire wool will not damage stone, chrome, glass or stainless steel. (By the way, on a completely separate note, here's another top tip: a clogged up showerhead can be cleared by simply soaking it in a glass bowl filled with vinegar overnight.) Believe it or not, you can chip granite worktop edges if you try hard enough. A good clout with a cast iron pan will do it. Accidents do happen but most stains and chips can be repaired. If you can observe these few simple procedures, both you, your family and your friends can look forward to admiring those classic, classy granite worktops for years to come. Enjoy.” STEVE BUNYAN
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