Few things make your bathroom look more luxurious than granite countertops. You probably know how well granite works as a countertop material in the kitchen, and these benefits extend to the bathroom, as well. However, the bathroom environment is a little different from the kitchen. Here are some things to know, when you're thinking about installing granite countertops in your bathroom.

Regular Cleaning Prevents Staining

Bathroom countertops have the potential to develop entirely different stains than those found in the kitchen. Toothpaste, cosmetics, soap scum, and hair care products can leave stains or a filmy residue on the counters. Mildew might even develop, if the bathroom is humid and the counters aren't cleaned frequently. To prevent the buildup of hard water deposits, soap scum, and other stains, you should clean your countertops daily. Simply wiping them dry keeps them free from water and wipes away things that could turn into stains. You can clean your counters with water and mild dish detergent, or you can use a product made to clean granite countertops, on an occasional basis. You want to avoid anything acidic, as these products are too harsh. This includes homemade cleaners that contain vinegar that you might use elsewhere in the bathroom.

The Countertops Should Be Sealed Regularly

When you have your countertops installed, be sure to ask the contractor for a recommendation on how often the granite should be sealed. This is extremely important in a bathroom environment, where the granite is exposed to water daily. You might need to seal the countertops every year or two, or even more often. As long as water beads up on the surface, the sealer is still good. If water seeps into the stone, the protective layer has worn off and should be replaced as soon as possible. Sealing granite is as easy as polishing furniture, so you don't want to put it off.

The Bathroom Floor May Need To Be Reinforced

If you have a large downstairs bathroom, installing granite countertops will be easier than if you want to install them in a small bathroom upstairs. Your contractor might have difficulty getting the slab up the stairs and around tight corners. Another thing to consider about putting granite in an upstairs bath is the weight of the material. Make sure your floor and the cabinet base can handle the weight of a granite slab. An older home built with lighter materials might need to have the floors reinforced, if you're putting in a large piece of granite.

Granite countertops are very durable, and as long as you keep them sealed and wiped down regularly, they will look beautiful for years to come. Granite is an excellent material for bathrooms, especially when you want countertops that add a touch of luxury and beauty to the room.

For more information, talk to companies like Artisan Granite & Marble.