Simple maintenance tips for your natural stone floors, table, counter tops, and other surfaces

Do’s

  • Dust mop floors frequently
  • Clean floors with stone soap
  • Blot up spills immediately
  • Call a professional stone restoration company about any problems
 Don’ts

  • Don’t use vinegar as a cleaner, the acid will etch the surface
  • Don’t use cleaners that contain acid, such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub & tile cleaners
  • Don’t use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers

Daily Maintenance
Dust mop! Dust mop! Dust mop! Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces. Use a clean non-treated dry dust mop at least two or three times a day in high traffic areas and less often in low traffic areas. Walk-Off mats inside and outside an entrance will help minimize sand, dirt and grit that will scratch and dull the stone’s surface.

Cleaning
Clean polished and unploished natural stone surfaces daily in high traffic areas. Use a clean rayon or cotton string mop with cold or warm water and a good quality neutral cleaner. Follow the directions for the cleaner carefully; too much may leave a film and cause streaks.

Protection
Stone floors exposed to water and spills should be protected with a silicone penetrating sealer. Table and counter tops should also be protected with a penetrating sealer and paste wax to protect the stone against water rings and spotting.

Spills and Stains
Blot the spill with a paper towel; don’t wipe – it will spread the spill.
Flush the area with plain water and stone soap and rinse several times. Repeat several times if necessary. If the stain remains, a chemical poultice may be required. Check with your stone supplier or restoration firm for poulticing methods.

Restoration
Restoration calls for the knowledge and expertise of a professional. With regular maintenance, natural stone surfaces may not have to be restored of refinished for several years. But when it;s time for new life for your natural stone sufaces, call on a professional in stone restoration and refinishing.