• Granite is an a type of real rock called igneous rock, which means it was once molten and it formed as it cooled deep within the earth. Different minerals within granite typically appear as small specks and flecks throughout the stone, creating the salt and pepper look in the counter top .

• Granite is extremely hard and durable, and practically scratchproof. It can be highly polished and shiny or finished in a variety of other ways. These countertops are easily cleaned because of its low porosity. Granite is available in a wide range of colors.
• Quartz --Unlike granite, you never have to seal or polish quartz .
  
• Soapstone --Soapstone countertops in your kitchen are a natural, non-porous material, which means it won't stain and isn't affected by chemicals, acids, temperatures, etc but is is darkened by mineral oil. For this reason, some people pre-treat soapstone with mineral oil.
• Pyrolave is enameled lava rock. This is a natural rock that has had an additional heat treatment finish applied.
• WilsonArt Earthstone : the look and feel of natural stone countertops.

Man Made Counter top surfaces include :

• Corian Solid Surface countertops is distributed and sold by DuPont worldwide
• Compac Marmol & Quartz
• SwanStone
• Formica Stone Natural Quartz Surfacing is a new material for kitchen countertops. It not only offers the elegant look and durability of granite and it's virtually maintenance free. Nonporous so there's nowhere for bacteria to hide. More heat resistant than solid surfacing and high-pressure laminate.

• Zodiaq Countertops quartz surfaces is a new category of surfacing material from DuPont made with natural quartz for interior use in homes and commercial buildings. More info
• Okite Solid Surface material is made in Italy . Okite is a specially developed quartz based stone surface material.
• Caesarstone is a man made stone with all the properties of natural stone.
• Ceramic Tile Countertops- Ceramic, porcelain, and stone tile can successfully be installed on all manner of countertops. Selecting the right backing beneath the tile is very important.

Granite is Tough; Taking Correct Care of It Isn't
Edward Green
Granite is Tough; Taking Correct Care of It Isn't

Crystal like granite countertops and spa type bathrooms built with natural stone are all the rage in home interiors, but not surprisingly it will lose its investment value fast if not properly maintained.

Up to now, only ammonia based cleaners were the granite cleaning choice outside of soap and water for homeowners, regardless of the fact that these products in reality damage natural stone.

Marble Master's stone cleaning product line safely cleans and conditions countertops, floors and wall surrounds made of granite, marble, travertine and other natural stone. For more information, visit www.marblemasteruk.com

Ammonia-based products remove the seal of natural stone, allowing stains to penetrate the surface and set more easily, said Edward Green, Technical Director of Marble Master. The damage caused by these products increases the chance that the stone will have to be refurbished or replaced, which is a costly undertaking.

Natural stone is hard-wearing, but still needs appropriate care to continue its inherent beauty. When treated correctly, it is a low maintenance surface that will hold its gleam longer than any other surface known to man, and can enhance the value of your home.

Marble Master's set of non ammoniated, inexpensive products features its Daily Cleaner, Daily Cleaner Wipes, Polish/Protector, Stone Soap and Penetrating Sealers. The line protects and extends the life of stone countertops and gives customers high quality cleaning power. The line is non toxic, safe on all food preparation surfaces, features a streak-free formula and is easy to use.

Marble Master Products are also effective when used on natural quartz surfaces and engineered stone and can be safely used on ceramics or porcelain tile and grout. This exclusive product line, which contains the highest grade of quality ingredients, is user friendly, non toxic and safe for the environment.

The Marble Master Stone Care System is specially formulated and developed by stone care professionals with more than 40 years of experience in the natural stone industry. For more information or to purchase the products, visit www.marblemasteruk.com or call 020 8807 8889.

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About the Author

Edward Green owns and operates the highly successful Marble Master Ltd company. Marble Master specializes in Restoration and Refinishing of all types of natural stone and consultancy services to Architects, Restoration Companies and Interior Designers.