Granite countertops are one of the most durable and low-maintenance surfaces you can install in a Calgary home. With the right care, they can last decades while continuing to look polished and refined. Whether you’ve just installed new granite or you’re maintaining an older surface, this guide covers everything local homeowners need to know about sealing, cleaning, and preventing damage. To add extra insight, we included professional advice from Gary Alleyne, owner and lead installer at AAA Countertops, who has over 17 years of experience working with natural stone.

Why Granite Maintenance Matters

Granite is naturally strong and heat resistant, but it’s also a porous stone. Proper sealing and cleaning protect it from:

• Daily wear
• Staining
• Dullness or etching
• Water absorption
• Oils and residue

Fortunately, granite is one of the easiest countertops to maintain when you follow a simple routine.

1. Sealing Granite Countertops: How Often and Why It Matters

Granite should be sealed on a regular schedule to keep liquids and stains from penetrating the surface. Calgary’s climate, with its low humidity and temperature swings, makes proper sealing especially important.

How Often to Seal Granite in Calgary

Most homeowners can follow this sealing schedule:

• Newly installed granite: Seal once after installation.
• Most granite types: Once a year.
• Light, porous granite: Every 6–9 months.
• Dark, dense granite: Every 18–24 months.

Gary notes that the easiest way to check whether granite needs sealing is the water test: Pour a tablespoon of water on the counter. If the water darkens the stone after a few minutes, it’s time to reseal. If it beads on the surface, your seal is still holding.

What Sealant to Use

A penetrating, food-safe granite sealant is best. Avoid topical sealants, which can leave streaks or residue.

Quick Sealing Steps

1. Clean the countertop with mild soap and water.
2. Apply sealant evenly with a microfiber cloth.
3. Let it absorb for the manufacturer’s recommended time.
4. Wipe off any excess.
5. Allow curing for 24 hours before heavy use.

2. Daily Cleaning for Granite Countertops

Day-to-day upkeep is simple, and sticking with the right products prevents long-term issues.

Best Cleaners for Granite

• Warm water
• Mild dish soap
• Microfiber cloth

What to Avoid

• Vinegar
• Lemon or citrus-based products
• Bleach
• Ammonia
• Abrasive scrub pads
• Generic “all-purpose” cleaners with acidic ingredients

These can weaken the sealant and dull the finish over time.

Gary’s Cleaning Advice

“Most stains happen because something sits for too long. Wipe spills within a few minutes, especially oil, wine, coffee, and tomato sauce. Granite doesn’t stain easily, but no countertop is perfect.”

3. Protecting Granite from Heat, Scratches, and Damage

Granite handles heat well, but repeated exposure can cause thermal shock. Scratches are uncommon, but certain items can cause micro-damage over time.

Heat Protection

Use:

• Trivets
• Hot pads
• Heat-resistant runners

Avoid placing hot pots directly on the stone, especially near seams.

Cutting and Scratching

Always use cutting boards. Granite can dull knives, and sharp blades can scratch softer or lighter stones.

Preventing Damage from Chemicals

Acetone, oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and paint thinners can weaken or remove sealant. If you’re doing home repairs or renovations, cover the countertops.

4. How to Handle Chips, Stains, and Etching

Granite is tough, but accidents happen. Here’s how to handle the most common issues.

Small Chips or Dings

These usually happen around sinks or edges.

Repair process:

• Professionals fill chips with colour-matched epoxy and smooth the finish.
• Repairs typically take 30–60 minutes.

Gary often handles these for past installation clients, and he notes that most small chips are repairable without replacing the slab.

Stains

If a stain does develop, a poultice can lift oil or pigment from inside the stone.

A basic poultice includes:

• Baking soda
• Hydrogen peroxide or water

Spread the paste on the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it for 12–24 hours.

Etching

True etching is rare on granite but can happen with some lighter stones. If the finish looks dull or uneven, a stone restoration specialist can re-polish the area.

5. Seasonal Care for Calgary Homes

Calgary’s dry winters and warm summers create conditions that make granite maintenance slightly different than in other cities.

• Low humidity can cause sealant to dry out faster.
• Sun-filled kitchens can warm up stone near windows, leading to expansion and contraction.
• Homes with frequent winter heating cycles may see more movement around seams.

Gary’s recommendation: “A quick seal once a year is enough for most homes in Calgary. If your kitchen gets strong sun exposure or sees heavy use, twice a year keeps everything protected.”

6. When to Call a Professional

You should contact a professional if you notice:

• Deep or long cracks
• Loose under-mount sinks
• Seams separating
• Large chips
• Discolouration that doesn’t lift with a poultice

AAA Countertops handles granite repairs, re-sealing, sink reattachment, and surface restoration across Calgary. In some cases—such as sink detachments—Gary can complete the work within just a few days, as seen in past service calls from homeowners in the northwest.