Fine Crafted Stone Surfaces
To get the longest life and preserve the beauty of your natural stone, follow these simple tips:
Coasters: Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices.
Trivets: While many stones can withstand heat, the use of trivets or mats is recommended.
Cutting: Refrain from cutting directly on your stone counter; use a cutting board.
Spills
Common staining items such as red wine, mustard & oils, should NOT be left on your counter for any time; immediate clean up is best. Do not allow oil- or ink-based rubber products to sit on your countertop for any time.
Everyday Cleaning
Clean stone surfaces with a neutral cleaner, stone soap, or mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water.
Similar to any item cleaned in your home, an excessive concentration of cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Use a soft cloth for counter surfaces for best results. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with soap and dry with a soft cloth.
In the bath or other wet areas, soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a solution of ammonia and water (about 1/2 cup ammonia to a gallon of water). Frequent or over-use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface of some stone types.
Many suppliers offer products used for stone cleaning.
Products containing lemon, vinegar or other acids may dull or etch calcareous stones. Scouring powders or creams often contain abrasives that may scratch certain stones.
Many commercially available rust removers (laundry rust stain removers, toilet bowl cleaners) contain trace levels of hydrofluoric acid (HF). This acid attacks silicates in addition to other minerals. All stones, including granite and quartzite, will be attacked if exposed to HF.
Sealing is a common step taken on some stones as an extra precaution against staining. In fact, the sealing products used in the stone industry are “impregnators,” which do not actually seal the stone but more correctly act as a repellent rather than a sealer.
Sealing does not make the stone stain-proof; it makes it more stain-resistant. Many stones do not require sealing. However, applying an impregnating sealer is a common practice.
