How to Protect and Care for Natural Stone
Although natural stone is one of the simplest surfaces to maintain, some basic care is required to maintain the appearance and avoid wear. To keep the shine and look of your investment, follow these easy steps for maintenance.
Make sure that before you begin to use your new natural stone entryway or countertop you get it properly sealed by a professional. Most professionals will tell you that the surface will require annual resealing. Many homeowners find it easier to make it part of their spring cleaning task so they don’t forger.
A professional will ask for the manufacturer’s details for the type of stone they will be sealing. The type of sealant required will vary depending on the porosity, density, or even surface preparation of the material. The manufacturer’s guidelines may also recommend a specific sealant to use.
After your natural stone has been sealed, make sure that you clean it everyday. This means wiping up spills as soon as they occur in addition to giving them an all over cleaning with a soft cloth and some water. Always dry the surface after cleaning, it can cause build up if you have hard water.
Occasionally you might need to use a product to restore the gleam of your natural stone. On natural stone you should be careful to only use a pH-balanced cleanser. This means the cleanser is neutral, or has a pH level of 7.0. Cleansers that are not balanced can remove the sealant on the surface and allow it to stain more easily.
If you don’t want to buy a special cleanser, dishwashing detergent can work, as long as it is pH-balanced. Check the label or buy a test kit to make sure that it will not harm natural stone.
Do not use window cleaner, vinegar, or ammonia to clean your natural stone. Also, avoid anything that might be even slightly abrasive. This includes steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive cleansers.
If you have a surface that traps dirt, such as slate, some scrubbing may be occasionally required. If this is the case, use a pH-balanced cleanser and a soft bristled brush to clean away any stains or dirt. Be sure to rinse and dry the surface after you have cleaned it.
A professional should handle stains and other cosmetic problems such as loss of shine. Although there are kits that promise to draw out stains in natural stone or restore the shine to your countertops, some of these products can do more harm than good.
If you notice a stain, clean it the best you can with water and call a professional. They will know what steps to take based on the type of stain and the type of stone to avoid permanently setting the stain. Often this service comes with a money back guarantee, so there is little risk if the stain is permanent.
By following these steps you can insure that your natural stone will continue to look new and wear well. Simple steps like regular cleaning, choosing the right cleanser, and asking for professional help can preserve your investment for decades to come.
