Natural Stone Care and Maintenance Guidelines

Natural stones can be broadly classified into two categories according to differences in hardness. Marble, limestone and travertines types of natural stones are softer stones sensitive to acidic materials and vulnerable to scratches. Granite, quartzite and bluestones on the other hand are harder stones and not as sensitive as the limestone categories.

Stone care and maintenance

Harder or softer in nature, all stone surfaces need regular cleaning and maintenance practices to keep their natural beauty.

Limestone and marble requires a honed finish when used in the vicinity of acidic products, as acids can etch into the polish and leave dull marks. To avoid this, The Marble Man uses penetrating sealers which will protect the stone surface from acidic spills (lemon, wine etc.) that can enter deep into the stone through the slightly porous surface. The sealers thus help to preserve the natural look and feel of marble, limestone or sandstone.

Keeping the stone surface free of dust and dry sandy soil is the best way to reduce scratches and wear that occur from everyday use. Occasionally wash the stone surface with warm water and dry off with a clean, non-abrasive cloth, sponge or mop. Stone cleaning products can be used daily or weekly according to their strength. If proper cleaning materials are not used, your beautiful stone surfaces can get badly affected. Never use a cleaning agent that contains acidic ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice etc. or detergents that contain acid/alkaline chemicals that will etch or spoil the natural shine of the stone surface. 

Natural stone surfaces such as marble benchtops and floors need polishing to bring back their sheen - the floor machine, special polishing pads and polishing compounds can do the wonder to get a very natural finish. Newly polished marble or other natural stone surface needs to be treated with a solvent or water based impregnating sealer to minimise potential staining. A good quality impregnating sealer renders an invisible subsurface seal, penetrating deep into the stone and thus preventing staining from accidental spills or other causes.

Simple but important points to remember regarding natural stone maintenance:

• Remember to place small rug at entryways to trap dirt and sand from normal foot traffic that otherwise will scratch costly stone surfaces.
• Always wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining and to avoid permanent damage to the stone. Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing. 
• Heat can damage your stones. Use coasters, trivets or mats under hot plates, and also under glasses, if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.

   
The Marble Man Advantage   

   Get advice from our stone restoration specialists by calling them on 1300 627 626 or visit our website to know what type of cleaning materials are to be used for a particular type of natural stone surface, and how to keep your stone in a spick-and-span condition.