Granite counter tops are considered by many to be the best of the best. Offering great durability, natural beauty that is simply hard to beat and a usability level that meets or exceeds many other options, these counter tops are favored by many for good reasons. Still, granite counter tops will take some special care to maintain their beauty.

Granite counter tops are tough, very tough. Yet, they are not indestructible. With this in mind, there are a few basic tips in regard to safe use for these counters. They include:

* Avoid dropping heavy items on them. Although granite is incredibly strong, it can be chipped and even broken, especially if a hit takes place on a fissure line. Try to use at least a little care when placing heavy objects on these counters and when lifting items over them.

* Don't stand on them. Here and again, it is simply not a good idea to stand directly on the overhangs in particular. These can break and chip if weight is too much.

* Do not cut directly on them. This is especially so if the granite has been treated with a sealer. While the cutting won't likely damage the granite itself, it can scratch the sealant and level behind a bit of streaking.

* Avoid placing hot pots on them. While it is almost impossible to burn or melt granite counter tops, the sealer can be damaged when this is done. It is almost always recommended that hot pots and pans be placed on a trivet or hotplate instead.

Granite counter tops are known for their beauty and durability, but to keep them looking great, they must be cleaned. These counters require slightly different attention that others for routine cleaning. Here are some basic tips for keeping these counters looking great:

* Wipe up daily. Use a soft rag and mild cleanser or stone soap on a daily basis to clean and wipe down the counters. This will just help keep surface dirt and dust away and keep the counters looking great. If heavy dirt or stains are present, clean them up right away. If the stain does make it into the granite, a special cleaner might be necessary to remove it.

* Buff it up. Every so often these counters will need to be buffed out to remove any streaking that occurs. A regular old terry cloth towel works great for this purpose.

* Polish. Stone polish designed for granite counter tops can also help keep things looking great and prevent any potential staining problems.

* Seal it. These counters are normally sealed at the time of installation, but a reapplication should take place every few years. This will help protect the appearance of counters over the long haul. If a homeowner isn't comfortable with doing this, pros can be hired.

Granite counter tops are considered among the best for their natural beauty and lasting durability. Taking care of them correctly can extend the lifespan of their appearance for years into the future.