MAINTENANCE/INSTALLATION
Care and Cleaning of Natural Stone in Residential Applications
Natural stone products are more popular than ever. This trend will continue because stone is more affordable than previous years. In addition, customers are more conscious today of the durability of stone countertops in comparison to their other countertop choices.
The care of granite, while simple, must still be maintained. A silicone based impregnating sealer is applied on the granite tops prior to or at installation. Most granites will need to have this sealer re-applied every 6 months to 2 years depending upon the use of the granite tops. The color and density of the granite will effect the timing of this re-application process. The process involves applying the sealer with a soft cloth or brush, allowing the sealer to penetrate the stone, and wiping off the excess sealer. Water will bead on the stone when the process is successful. A good impregnating sealer will not change the color or texture of the stone.
On a daily basis, a good non-alkaline, PH balanced soap is the best product to use for daily cleaning. It is not recommended that you use any harsh chemicals to clean your granite tops. The Stone Resource maintains a line of Natural Stone Care Products from HMK. HMK is based in Germany and is the world leader in natural stone care products. The Stone Soap (P24) by HMK has a conditioner that will help to maintain the luster of your granite tops and can be used daily. It is mild enough to use on any natural stone product including marble and limestone.
All stone products need to be sealed. A marble floor, vanity or fireplace surround, can stain easily if an impregnating sealer is not used. The tumbled marble, now commonly used as a backsplash, will also stain without a sealer. If a stain occurs in your natural stone, do not think that it is ruined. Most oils and other liquids that will stain your natural stone can be removed with a poultice mixture. Acids do not stain the marble but actually burn or etch it. This is another situation that can be remedied, although the solution is not as simple. The marble has to be sanded and ground back to a polish. A professional marble restoration company with the proper equipment is necessary to accomplish this task.
As the trend for more natural stone continues to grow, we at The Stone Resource want to educate the marketplace on the proper maintenance of these products. Please feel free to call us with any of your questions.
