General Care for Granite and Marble
Care and maintenance are important factors in guaranteeing a stone's lasting beauty. Incorrect applications can never be restored by care and maintenance; therefore, it is important to carefully choose the appropriate material for your particular purpose. The existing natural stones seem to be countless, as are their differences in compressive strength, abrasive hardness, acid resistance, skid resistance, water absorption, etc. Once you, the Architect, Designer, Developer, Contractor or Homeowner have made the right choice, care and maintenance are of the utmost importance.
In reference to the polished surface of any stone, please keep in mind that the more the surface is kept free of abrasive particles, the less likely it is to scratch or lose its polish.
Initial clean up after installation:
A thorough clean up of cement mortar residue immediately following the installation of your natural stone is essential. A newly installed floor/wall must be cured from 4-6 weeks. During this time, do not use any cleaner containing greasy soap or wax, since this will close the pores of the stone and restrict the evaporation of moisture from the setting bed. Unsightly rims and spots on the stone surface would result if the surface were sealed prior to curing.
Normal Maintenance for GRANITE:
Common care for granite involves only periodic washing with clean, potable water and a neutral (PH7) detergent soap or cleaner. Following the manufacturer's directions, wash in small, overlapping sweeps. Rinse thoroughly with clean, potable water to remove all traces of soap or cleaner solution. Dry with a soft cloth and allow to thoroughly air-dry. After drying, a sealer may be applied. Sealers designed specifically for granite use may be used to increase stain resistance.
Examples of Food / Beverages That May Cause Surface Stains on GRANITE:
Mustard, ink, salad dressings, oil, tea, mayonnaise, butter, peanut butter, cosmetics, and any oil-based caulks or adhesives.
Normal Maintenance for MARBLE:
Normal "housekeeping" maintenance for marble surfaces involves only periodic washing with clean, potable water and mildly alkaline cleaners. "Soapless" cleaners are preferred because they minimize streaking and filming. However, mild, phosphate-free biodegradable liquid dish soaps, soap flakes or powders are acceptable if rinsing is thorough.
Begin by applying clean, hot water (not boiling) on the surface. Next, using the cleaning solution (following the manufacturers directions) wash in small, overlapping sweeps. Rinse thoroughly with clean, potable water to remove all traces of soap or cleaner solution. Change the water in the rinse pail frequently. Dry with a soft cloth or cotton-flannel, and allow to thoroughly air-dry before applying top-dressings. Chamois skin may be used in lieu of cotton cloth in this process.
Suggestions for Care and Use for MARBLE:
Marble is a natural stone and should receive careful attention to prevent damage. It is common policy to use rubber-bottom coasters under all glasses; placemats or colourfast felt bottoms should be used under anything placed on the polished surface to prevent scratching. Many common foods and beverages contain acids, which could etch or stain the surface; spills of any type should be immediately wiped up and the area should be washed. Washing should be done with clean, soft cloths and lukewarm water; occasionally a mild detergent may be used.
Examples of Food / Beverages That Can Etch or Stain MARBLE:
Alcoholic beverages, fruit juices, vinegar, tomato products, mustard, carbonated beverages, ink, salad dressings, oil, tea, milk, coffee, butter, peanut butter, cosmetics, and any oil based caulks or adhesives.
