Natural Stone Maintenance Tips
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning.
Natural stone flooring is a beautiful, permanent surface that gives a house a homely feel. On top of the visual aesthetic, natural stone exemplifies safety and durability. Incorporating regular care and maintenance is essential to keep natural stone looking pristine.
Follow these handy tips to keep the natural stone surfaces and flooring clean and look new.
Helpful tips for natural stones
Most natural stones can take high heat. However, mats or trivets are still recommended to keep them in good condition.
One should use coasters for glasses, especially when drinking citrus juices or alcohol since stone is slightly porous. Placing rugs or mats at entrances minimizes tracking in sand and dirt that can scratch the surface of natural stone floors. The undersides of these mats and rugs also need to be slip-resistant.
Always blot spills with a paper towel, and avoid wiping since this spreads the spill. After blotting, wash the spot with a solution of mild soap and water and rinse repeatedly, then dry the section by blotting with a gentle cloth.
Abrasive dirt can damage natural stones. So, mop floors regularly with a non-treated, clean, dry mop. Keep the vacuum cleaner’s wheels or attachments clean and intact, as worn-out plastic may scratch natural stone surfaces.
Cleaning tips for natural stones
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning. These instructions will outline the appropriate cleaning equipment and solutions.
If there aren’t any official cleaning recommendations or products from the manufacturer, all hope is not lost. One can clean natural stone surfaces with warm water, stone soap, a neutral cleaner, or a mild dishwashing detergent.
Always use clean mops or soft cloths for better results. Avoid excessively concentrated soaps or cleaners, which can cause streaks and leave films.
After washing the stone surface with a soapy solution, rinse it properly and dry using a soft cloth. When rinsing, change the water often since accumulated dirt can be abrasive.
For bathrooms or other wet stone-covered areas, minimize soap scum by using a squeegee after every use.
Persistent soap scum is unattractive in the home. However, one can use a water and ammonia solution (around half a cup of ammonia per one gallon of water) or non-acidic soap scum removers. Please note that overusing ammonia can eventually make some stone surfaces dull. Always utilize protective equipment when handling ammonia products. For areas around hot tubs or pools, wash with a mild bleach solution and clean water to remove moss or algae.
Sealing tips
It’s important to note that sealing won’t make a stone surface stain-proof but will make it more resistant to stains. Consult a reputable stone supplier to determine if the surface requires sealing, as some don’t. Regardless, sealing is a customary practice. Select a non-toxic and safe sealer for food areas, and consult with a supplier on the right sealer type and how often it should be used.
Maintain and repair natural stones
Contact a professional stone supplier for advice or an appointment. These experts will inspect and personalize recommendations for maintaining and refurbishing natural stone surfaces.
North Valley Stone Supply LLC is a family-owned and operated hardscape materials company serving Phoenix and surrounding areas. We strive to bring our customers natural stone and quality materials at affordable prices. Call us today at (623)244-8657