Do Your Marble, Granite and Other Natural Stones Need Professional Cleaning?

                          

Experts in the stone care industry in Australia say that marble and stone floor tiles and countertops in your home need professional cleaning. There are structural pores in the surface of the stones and they tend to absorb dust, dirt and bacteria. Normal mop won’t remove such layered grime and so they require strong cleaners, abrasives and scrubbing machines. Tile grout is also an area of your floors that collect dirt over time. Dirty grout can degrade the look of any stone floors.

Three Types of Cleaning Methods Are Recommended for Natural Stone

There are different varieties of stone materials available in the market and each stone surface may pose a unique cleaning issue.  As a result, several products are required to solve these stone cleaning issues.

When cleaning stone tile floors, three main methods are implemented to achieve the best result possible. These are chemical, abrasion, and heat cleaning. These three stone cleaning processes are often used in conjunction to produce stunning results.

Chemical Cleaning

Chemical Cleaning is used to clean stone tiles to remove many different types of stains. Strong cleaning detergents are used to dissolve heavy oils and grease build up in the tiles and grout. Acids can also be used on some acid resistant stones such as sandstone to remove calcium based materials from the surface. These are the 2 main types of chemical cleaners used but there are many more depending on the stains and material we are working on.

Abrasive Cleaning

Abrasive cleaning is often used in conjunction with chemical cleaning to remove surface and ingrained dirt and stains in natural stone surfaces. There are different degrees of abrasive cleaning which range from using simple abrasive cleaners to using abrasive pads and machines to grind the surface of the stone.

Heat Cleaning

Heat cleaning is done for your stone floors to remove heavy grease and oil buildup. This is often implemented along with chemical cleaning to remove older stains. Heat cleaning is mainly done for stone surfaces used in car parks and other outdoor areas.

Call the best stone restorer on the Gold Coast and other main cities in QLD and NSW today to complete a test on your marble or stone tile floor or outdoor stone paving.

Given below are some of the stone cleaning services offered by the Marble Man stone restoration professionals:

• Wax removal
• Grout cleaning
• Tile cleaning
• Builders cleans of tiles
• Soap Scum Removal
• Mould removal
• Driveway cleaning
• Car park cleaning
• Hi-Pressure water Cleaning
• Hot water (100 degrees C) hi pressure water cleaning 

You can hire a Marble Man stone restorer in the following cities:

SYDNEY | CANBERRA | BRISBANE | GOLD COAST | SUNSHINE COAST | TOOWOOMBA | NORTHERN NSW.

Call the Marble Man company office today on 1300 627 626 to get an obligation free stone restoration quote or email them to book your onsite evaluation.

How to Select the Right Kind of Stone for Your Home or Office

Here are some tips to choose natural stone for residential or commercial use.

Location

It is important to know where the stone is going to be used. Location will decide which type of natural stone to be selected and what stone treatment to be given.

These points are to be considered before you go for the final selection.

• Will the stone be indoors or outdoors?
• Will the stone be in a wet area or dry area?
• Will there be constant foot traffic?
• Will the stone be exposed to the elements?
• Will the stone be exposed to spillage of acidic substances?
• Does the stone need to be slip resistant?
• Will the stone be exposed to the build up of soap scum?
• Will the stone be exposed to constant heat?
• Will the stone suit its surroundings or decor? 

Location Specific Guidelines for Choosing the Stone

Kitchen areas are subject to constant spillage of acidic substances so they require stone that is hardwearing and resistant to absorption. Marble will etch with acidic substances, which are often found in the kitchen. Granite is scratch and heat resistant, virtually non-absorbent once sealed, resistant to most chemicals and a better choice for the kitchen than marble and limestone.

Bathroom areas are subject to the build up of soap scum, oils, dirt and mineral deposits from water so they require stone that is fairly resistant to absorption and can be easily cleaned. Smooth surfaces such as polished marble, limestone or granite are ideal. The size of the tile is also important, particularly where drains are located. Small tiles are more easily laid when the fall towards the drain is steep.

Foyers, elevators, stairs and showrooms are subject to constant foot traffic but polished marble, granite or terrazzo will still work well in these areas with regular maintenance.

Outdoor areas will weather if exposed to constant sun, rain, pollution and chemically treated pool water so a stone that wears well, is slip resistant and has a matt finish such as sandstone is ideal.

Colour of the Stone

Colour may be determined by the stone you choose, or alternatively the colour you require may determine your choice of stone. Slate is usually dark in colour, granite varies from beige to black, marble varies from white to black, onyx comes in a variety of beautiful translucent light to dark colours, sandstone and limestone are usually light coloured. The colour and stone choices are endless.

Points to keep in mind:

• Does the preferred stone come in the required colour?
• Is the space where the stone will be installed large or small?
• Does the colour appear to enlarge or reduce the space?
• Is there much natural light or is it a dark space?
• What type of artificial lights will be used that may affect the colour?
• Are the ceilings high or low?
• Will there be more than one colour used?
• Will the colour tone in with other colours in the room?
• Will the colour show scratches, stains, dirt or dust?
• Does the room need to feel warm or cool?
• Does the colour suit the purpose of the room?

Finish

Finish will be determined by the purpose of the stone and the type of stone chosen. Marble can be polished to a high gloss whereas sandstone cannot. A marble vanity in a bathroom would look appealing with a high gloss, whereas an outdoor, sandstone area would be better left matt or textured to enhance slip resistance. A low sheen finish is practical for a high traffic area, whereas a high gloss is ideal in a low traffic area and in a shower.

Considerations:

• Does the stone have a functional or aesthetic purpose?
• Will the stone be exposed to water?
• Does the stone require slip resistance?
• Will the stone be subject to dirt from foot traffic?
• Will the area be subject to high or low foot traffic?
• Will the stone take a polish?
• Will the finish compliment the décor?
• Is the stone in a bathroom where soap scum may build up?
• Is the stone in a kitchen where acidic liquids may be spilled?

Stone Care and Maintenance

Natural stone maintenance factor assumes importance, as it will determine the true cost of the stone. If the correct stone is chosen with an appropriate finish, maintenance will be manageable and affordable. If the wrong stone and finish are chosen maintenance could be costly and ineffective. A high gloss finish may be desired on a marble floor in a foyer with high foot traffic therefore the cost of regular polishing or resurfacing must be taken into account.

The cost of maintenance will also depend upon how often the stone need to be cleaned, sealed and repolished. 

For any queries regarding selection of natural stone or its maintenance needs, you may contact Australia's Number One marble and other stone restoration specialists. Call a stone repair professional now: 1300 627 626.  

More Stone Care Tips and Maintenance Ideas for Your Natural Stone

Installation of natural stone comes with an even greater responsibility to maintain it regularly and restore it whenever necessary. Routine cleaning of marble, granite and other natural stones prevents damage and keep the stones beautiful. The Marble man, Australia’s top marble floor and countertop restoration company, specialises in restoring the natural beauty of stones through various processes and thus providing immediate solution to any stone surface problem so encountered. Besides, the Marble Man experts also offer valuable advice to the clients concerning protection of their natural stones from all possible damages. In order to maintain the natural stone, homeowners need to emphasize on three most important things namely prevention of damage, cleaning without damage and removing stains.

To prevent damage of natural stone, daily cleaning is must, though it is not enough to ensure future protection. Regular cleaning along with routine maintenance by stone repair and natural stone restoration professionals will enhance the value and longevity of your stone surface. Most importantly, try to prevent contact between the materials that cause stain and the stone surface. Put large mats at the entrance to collect the outside dirt and soil which enter the house via the shoes. These mats must be shaken and vacuumed frequently. Also, vacuum the stone surface regularly and ensure that the dirt and soil is removed.

Good quality stone sealers must be applied professionally to prevent stains from penetrating into the stone surface. Resurfacing the stone surface will replace the dull, worn out stone by a smoother and harder finish that prevents staining and wear. Also, it is easier to clean a smooth surface as dirt and grime do not get trapped into the uneven spots.

Another most important part of stone maintenance is cleaning it without damaging the floor. The best method is to use the right cleaning material which is a pH neutral cleaner specially recommended for cleaning natural stone. Remember not to use abrasive cleaners on the stone surface and nylon scrubbing pads as they are harder than marble and will eventually scratch it. Professionals recommend the use of soft cleaners and sponges instead of thick cleaners as the latter will stick to the stone. Check out the Cleaning Products recommended by The Marble Man's professional team for better stone care. 

To prevent stains, wipe up spills immediately. In case the stain has already appeared, try to determine whether it is water-based or oil-based and clean it accordingly. You may not be able to do this without the assistance of the expert stone repairers. Stone care professionals will examine the damage caused and treat it properly so that your stone is protected from further damage. Before applying any chemical to clean stone surfaces, seek The Marble Man’s expert advice and save your stone from damages. In case damage has already occurred, it’s time to turn up to the stone restoration specialist as their professional techniques will bring back the old shine on your stone tiles.

Get Your Natural Stone Surfaces Inspected Today by Australia's Top Stone Restorers

Some of your greatest blessings come with patience. Yes, patience is the key- whether you're doing natural stone restoration or leading a family life!

When asked what's the gateway to a great family life, a homemaker lady said, "It's not a very costly house, but a moderate one with adorable natural stone floors and kitchen countertops will contribute to a great family life!"

Fill a house with Love and it become a Home

And decorate a house with marble or other natural stone tiles, and it becomes a Lovely Home.

Marble and other natural stone surfaces are an integral part of any awesome indoor designs!

It doesn't matter where from you bought your natural stone - let it be from anywhere around the globe, The Marble Man stone restorers can handle their repair, resurfacing, polishing, sealing etc.  

Nothing can replace the elegance and robustness of natural stone. Their maintenance cost is also less compared to other surfaces.

Nature is a very creative artist - Only thing is that you should have the sensibility to appreciate natural things and their beauty and quality. With some elegant stone decor elements at home, your stay indoors will be inspirational always!

In addition to marble floors, your granite countertops also need proper maintenance...otherwise stains and dirt will affect its look and finish. 

For inspecting the natural stone countertops and floor tiles in your home or office and giving a Free stone restoration quote, call the most reliable stone restorers in Australia now.

Stains on stone countertop or flooring can affect the elegance of your stylish kitchen design. We can give a renewed look to your dull stone surfaces. Consult The Marble Man stone restorers on the Gold Coast catering to several places in QLD and Northern NSW for a free stone restoration quote today.

Our stone care professionals can bring in some wonderful stone effects into your home decor .

Call now ☎ 1300 627 626 or visit The Marble Man website.

Spring is the Ideal Time for Cleaning, Polishing & Sealing Your Natural Stone Surfaces

The Marble Man is a professional stone restoration, cleaning and sealing company that specialises in services and products for natural stone tiles such as marble, granite etc. Our stone restoration works consist of polishing, sealing, repairs (including grout repairs and chip repairs), re-surfacing and stone cleaning using steam or chemical washing. We’ll always help you (both home owners and businesses) to preserve and maintain your costly investment in natural stone.

Decorative natural stone is not as hard as a rock – it’s beautiful and delicate, and should be treated with utmost care. Natural stone like marble can transform an environment and create everlasting beauty and joy; only thing to remember that it should be properly maintained and cared for. Proper care means deep knowledge on different varieties of stone and how it's used, and then applying correct products and maintenance methods.

The Marble Man has been in the stone restoration industry for over 20 years and can advise you on the daily routine maintenance to keep your natural stone floors, counter tops and tables looking amazingly fresh and beautiful. Natural Stone tiles are long lasting and will remain awesome for a lifetime if you routinely utilise the services of stone restoration specialists on the Gold Coast, Sydney and other places in QLD and NSW.

Even if you have not preserved your natural stone for a long time, we can use state-of-the-art technologies and highly skilled labour to rejuvenate your worn and damaged tiles. We make sure that your natural stone products give a lifetime of aesthetics and utility to your home or business establishment.

For safe and effective maintenance, The Marble Man offers a range of home products that you can purchase to keep your stone looking and feeling like ‘NEW’. Natural stones such as marble, travertine, and limestone have a delicate chemical composition and so will react with unsuitable cleaning products. So never compromise on quality while purchasing cleaning products, and once you know what to use, all you have to do is follow our stone care guidelines and your elegant natural stone surfaces will give you years of beauty and lustre. 

Our stone care technicians receive hands on, practical training on stone repair and restoration processes and new techniques around the globe. They continually improve and are kept up to date with the latest techniques and technology on natural stone care. We service: GOLD COAST | BRISBANE | SUNSHINE COAST | NORTHERN NSW | TOOWOOMBA | SYDNEY | CANBERRA.  Call our office today on 1300 627 626 to arrange an obligation free stone restoration quote.

How to Select the Ideal Natural Stone for Your Home

Different types of natural stones, having unique qualities, are readily available these days. Due to these extra options, we often make mistakes in choosing the correct type of stones for the purpose they are expected to serve. Every natural stone has its own advantages and disadvantages and therefore, cannot preferably be used for any and every purpose. 

Moreover, we tend to finalize a stone only by seeing a sample. For maximum satisfaction, it is advised that you should examine either the entire slab or a considerable number of tiles out of those to be used. To get the best value for your money, you must consult an experienced stone craftsman or any stone installation company and The Marble Man reigns supreme in this field. They are also the most sought after natural stone restorers in the QLD and NSW regions. 

When should I choose granite? 

Granite, as a building material, has proved its durability since ages. Due to its heat and stain resistant capabilities, granite can be used for both interior and exterior applications, preferably in flooring, paving, buildings, bridges, countertops and stair treads. Granite is easy to clean and harbours no bacteria. It possesses a natural appearance and a long-lasting value.  

Why should I choose marble? 

Marble mainly consists of calcite and is typically white in color. Marble, being resistant to erosion and fire, has been widely used in building monuments since time immemorial. Apart from this, marble gives a spectacular feel and can be used for beautiful interior decoration. Now-a-days marble is used for both residential and commercial purpose in flooring, roofing, wall-cladding as well as in sculptures. Even if a stain gets imprinted on any such flooring, you can get the marble floor restoration done by The Marble Man. 

Use of travertine 

The Marble Man also specializes in travertine which is generally used for flooring, furniture, fire place surrounds, wall cladding etc. However, it should be used once proper precaution is taken as it is not as durable as granite or marble. 

Coming to stone benchtops, its most common type is Caesar stone and Quantum Quartz. Caesar stone is not porous and hence requires less maintenance to retain its new and glossy look. It can stand brief exposure to heat but cannot tolerate strong chemicals or cleaning agents. However, Quantum quartz is resistant to heat, chemicals and acids and hence are easy to maintain. 

Before buying natural stone for our home or work place, it is essential that we determine its suitability and this requires professional expertise. The Marble Man, Australia’s leading natural stone restoration company, offers world class services in stone repair and stone maintenance. So, before beautifying your home and workplace, take their help and get the best value for your money. 

When Does Your Natural Stone Surface Require Restoration?

Do you own a commercial or residential building? Are you planning to renovate your building? If yes, then you need to search for specific natural stones for floors, walls, benchtops etc. Selecting the stone material is indeed a tedious job, because there are several types of tiles and stones available in the market. Choosing one which suits your budget and purpose is confusing and overwhelming too. It’s better to take useful tips from a stone care specialist in Australia.

How can stone restoration make your homes beautiful?

We all know that things become dull and worn out as years pass by. Stone floors and tiles also undergo wear and tear after some years. Floor tiles, table tops, bathroom tiles and other stone surfaces may start cracking when they are used repeatedly. Stone restoration is the process of restoring or repairing the worn out tiles of marble and other natural stones to a brand new condition. The result is amazing! After stone restoration, your old surface will look like a brand new one.

Stone restoration services require proper equipment, training and qualified professionals. You should always choose a stone restoration specialist service in the QLD and NSW regions which has the latest equipment, well trained technicians and supporting staff.

Stone restoration involves one or more of the following processes: 

• Tile repairs
• Stone resurfacing
• Polishing
• Cleaning using chemicals or steam
• Repairing the grouts and washing
• Chip repairing
• Sealing the tiles to prevent them from further damage 

How is stone restoration done?

Restoration of natural stone or marble involves the removal of scratches or damages to the surface by means of mechanical abrasion. It is popularly known as diamond grinding.

Restoration process may differ from surface to surface. Normally, natural stones reflect light and do not need much coating to achieve the desired finish. After restoration, polishing is done to give the surface the desired look.

What is stone resurfacing? ­­­­­

Floors may become damaged after years of repeated use. If you want to rejuvenate your floor tiles, stone resurfacing can give you the desired result. In this process, an epoxy stone coat is applied over the damaged stone surface. One of the biggest advantages of stone resurfacing is that you can get a beautiful surface without removing the existing one.

The glamour of your home decor greatly depends on natural stone surfaces. They are to be handled delicately. If you are on the lookout for natural stone restoration, you should always choose a reliable company that offers affordable stone repair services in Australia.