Natural Stone Care and Use
Congratulations on selecting natural stone for your project. By following
a few simple guidelines you will enjoy a lifetime of beauty and functionality
from your stone.
Granite
Use
Granite is by far the most resilient and durable of the stones commonly
used. Because of these characteristics, granite is an excellent choice
for inside as well as outside of your home. Hot pans and light cutting
have little effect except to cool your pans and dull your knives.
Sealing
Sealing is best done with an impregnating sealer (this also should
have been left by your installer). Sealers will let you know when they
need to be reapplied. When they are working, water will bead on the surface
like a wax job on a car. If the stone darkens from the water, it is time
to seal again. Read and follow manufactures recommendations.
Precautions
- Do not use harsh abrasive cleansers.
- Do not set large hot objects close to sink or stove openings.
- Wipe up spills as they occur.
Marble & Limestone
Use
Marble and limestone are calcium based materials and are susceptible to
etching and staining. These materials are relatively softer than granite
and scratch easier. Marble and limestone's creamy texture and rich colors
make them a desirable medium. With proper care and a few precautions marble
and limestone are very easy to live with.
Cleaning
Cleaning is best done with stone soap (which should have been left by
your installer), or as a second choice, a mild non-colored detergent may
be used. A dilute solution of ammonia and water (20 parts water to 1 part
ammonia) may be used occasionally to remove any soap residue.
Sealing
Sealing is best done with an impregnating sealer (this should have been
left by your installer). Sealers will let you know when they need to be
reapplied. When they are working, water will bead on the surface like
a wax job on a car. If the stone darkens from the water, it is time to
seal again. Read and follow manufactures recommendations.
Precautions
- Never use harsh or abrasive cleansers.
- Wipe up spills as they occur.
- Do not use colored cleansers or Windex.
- Use coasters under glasses.
- Use glass or ceramic coasters under plants.
- Wipe up spills immediately.
- Squeegee walls in tub surrounds and showers when through.
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