Don't Heed to Rumours About Natural Stones

If you are planning a smaller natural stone restoration/remodelling project such as a bathroom remodel (including a vanity top, or a bar top addition), or may be adding a granite fireplace surrounds, then you need not to take a full stone slab from a supplier. You may look for other providers of partial slabs which are the left over portion from a full slab, after a job is cut. Here the advantage is that you can save some money as you’ll be paying for the exact square footage that is actually required for your smaller job.

Don’t believe everything that you see about natural stones such as their usage, cost, maintenance etc. on various online sources via the internet. Some are only half truth as they might not have been written by stone care or maintenance experts.  One misleading point is that many sources say granite stains easily. Actually 90% of granite varieties are resistant to staining – only thing that there are a few colour variations (subtle blues, greens and greys) that are more porous than others and may require sealing more often.

Another false claim we see in the internet sources is that granite counter tops harbor bacteria. Actually natural granite countertops are cleaner than many commonly found countertop surface materials. Some companies misguide consumers, saying granite scratches easily in order to help them sell a competing product. Also did you know that many varieties of granite are less expensive than “quartz” products, contrary to some misleading claims in the net?!

One thing we should keep in mind that nothing can replace the beauty and quality of natural stones when they are used in our home or office. The use and popularity of natural stone surfaces has been consistent from time immemorial and natural stones fit in easily with any modern design.

Must Know Stone Care Tips for the Common People

Regular care is a must for your stone surfaces.

Natural stone surfaces that are regularly and correctly maintained will retain their magnificent look and feel for longer. There is no meaning in having costly stone surfaces if they don’t look fabulous. A little expertise from The Marble Man can do the wonders - stone care, stone restoration, marble repair etc. 

Benchtops
Clean the stone surface with a recommended product such as S-P Cleaner and a soft damp cloth after use to avoid the build up of bacteria and substances that may scratch or etch the surface. Spills are to be removed  immediately as acidic substances such as juice, coffee, tea, vinegar and wine will etch the surface of marble or limestone benchtops. Rinse the area after cleaning with fresh water to remove all excess dirt and detergent and dry with a soft cloth. DO NOT use abrasive cleaners or scourers, as scratches are highly visible on a glossy surface.

Floors
Sweep floors on a daily basis to prevent dirt from scratching the surface under foot and accumulating in the grout. A broom with soft bristles may be used but the most effective and gentle method for cleaning smooth surfaces is to use a Microfibre Mop, which has a soft pad. It can be used wet or dry. The mop we recommend comes with a large swivel head which makes sweeping quick and easy. It picks up the dirt and dust as it glides and can be easily manoeuvred into corners. The microfibre pad can then be removed and rinsed thoroughly.

Vacuum rough textured stone surfaces, as this is more effective than sweeping. The suction will pull the dirt from within the textured surface.Mop on a regular basis after sweeping or vacuuming. Damp mopping can be carried out with a damp Microfibre Mop to pick up any residual dirt after sweeping. Wet mopping or washing should be carried out with a wet Microfibre Mop, warm water and a recommended product such as S-P Cleaner, to give a more thorough clean. Rinse the stone floor after mopping to ensure the dirty water is completely removed from the surface.

Showers
Remove soap scum effectively by using a recommended product such as Stone Deep Clean and a recommended white pad scourer such as the Scrub-a-dub. DO NOT use acidic or abrasive products such as Ajax, Jif, Exit Mould, Domestos, Shower Power etc as these will dull the surface of the stone, especially marble and limestone. To prevent the build up of soap scum and mould the cleaner must be gentle enough not to damage the surface but effective enough to cut through the build-up and kill bacteria.

Remove mould effectively by using a mild bleach solution of 1 cup household bleach to 4 cups water and apply with a sponge, only to the affected areas. Leave on for no more than ten minutes then rinse off thoroughly with water. DO NOT allow bleach to accumulate on the floor of the shower, as it will dull the surface. Rinse the entire area. DO NOT mix bleach with ammonia, as it will cause a toxic chemical reaction. Be aware that over time if not done correctly this procedure may dull the stone surface.

Dry the area as thoroughly as possible after cleaning to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. Stone tiles in showers must be sealed professionally after installation and silicon applied in the corners and around edges to prevent moisture from accumulating behind the tiles. The grout must also be sealed professionally to prevent it from holding water and encouraging mould growth.

Outdoor areas
Sweep outdoor areas weekly with a medium bristled brush, as dirt can accumulate quickly and settle in the grooves of textured surfaces.

Hose the surface monthly using clean water and a mild neutral stone detergent such as S-P Cleaner to remove excess dirt. A heavy duty clean should be carried out yearly. If neglected, outdoor areas can look dull and stained due to the accumulation of dirt and pollutants. Many outdoor areas have slip resistant, textured surfaces, which can become difficult to clean if left too long without maintenance.

Remove organic growth such as algae, moss or lichen as soon as possible using only a scourer recommended by your stone care professional such as the white Scrub-a-dub. DO NOT use a wire brush. Clean the area with a sponge and a mild chlorine solution of 1cup chlorine to 4 cups water to kill bacteria. 

Furniture and ornaments
Dust furniture and ornaments regularly with a damp cloth to trap any dirt on the surface of the stone as a build up of dust, oils and dirt, can etch the surface of some stones. Repeat with a clean, dry, soft cloth to polish and remove streaks.

Clean monthly with a recommended product such as S-P Cleaner, but DO NOT use products such as Mr Sheen as these will leave a waxy build up on the surface of the furniture or ornaments. As furniture and ornaments are not subject to the same wear as a stone floor they do not need cleaning with detergent as often. Regular dusting and wiping with warm water and a soft cloth should suffice.

Visit our website blog for more info on stone restoration. Phone us on FREE CALL 1300 627 626.