Natural stone is a unique decorating material with possibilities of creating amazing designs that not only last for generations but also add value to your property. It is even said that stone features grow even more beautiful with years. However, in order to keep them in best shape, you need to know a simple set of rules for their maintenance.
It’s important to remember that natural stones, primarily calcite based ones, like marble, travertine, limestone and some of slates possess ma delicate chemical composition that may not tolerate cleaning solvents that are not designed for use on stone surface.
Start from Simple Rules
One of the simplest preventive measures is to use coasters under drinking glasses when placed on natural stone counters or table tops. This is especially important if they contain alcohol or citrus juices, as they might cause etching. Another advice is never to put hot item directly on stone surfaces. China, silver and ceramic may scratch the polished stone surfaces, so mats should be used under such items. Don’t be tempted to use glass cleaners on marble vanity tops or toilet bowl cleaner on marble floor tiles, as they contain chemicals that are aggressive to stone surfaces.
Watch out for the Spills
If not properly taken care of some spills will turn out to be detrimental to stone. Orange juice, lemonade, wine, vinegar, liquors, tomato sauce, yogurt, salad dressings, perfume, aftershave, are unlikely to damage granite or green marble surfaces, but are about to etch polished marble, travertine, limestone, onyx, alabaster and slates. It’s paramount to pick up any spills sooner the better. Also, you should pay special attention to oil spills. A spill should never be rubbed, only blot it. Unless the label specifies that it’s safe on natural marble, don’t use any cleaning product either.
Keep it Basic
When it comes to cleaning floors, it is not only a proper cleaning product that counts. Consider investing in a cleaning rag, paper towels, a scrubbing pad, squeegee, and so on. For mopping highly polished stone tiles a quality mop and an appropriate mopping bucket are like bread and butter. According to highly-rated suppliers of stone tiles, sponge mops are not the greatest choice for highly polished stone floors. A good sized closed-loop cotton string mop or even a micro-fiber mop gives far better results.
Remember to Seal
Sealing the stone surfaces in your home is as important as regular cleaning. Sealers don’t protect the surface of stone in any way, nor do they alter the color or texture of your tiles. They operate under the surface by being absorbed into the stone, clogging the pores. This reduces the absorbency of the stone and prevents accidental spills from being absorbed permanently into the stone. Not all natural stones need sealing. Marble and travertine, for example, are very compact and quite stain resistant. On the other hand, some types of granite are so porous that no sealer can make them 100% stain resistant.
Avoid Physical Damage
Finally, be sure to avoid any chipping, scratching or cursing the stone surfaces. The furniture in your home should have its feet padded with felt pads so it doesn’t damage the floor when moving. Welcome mats and area rugs on the inside of the entrance are also useful as they collect sand and dirt that can damage polished surfaces.
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Author Bio:
If one thing is true about Lillian Connors, her mind is utterly curious. That’s the reason why she simply can’t resist the urge to embark on all sorts of home improvement projects and spread the word about them. You can check her out on G+.
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