How to Choose, Clean and Maintain Stone Surfaces

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How to Choose, Clean and Maintain Stone Surfaces

Counter tops made of granite or quartz or other stone materials have been the rave for home builders and buyers for several decades.

Stone has also made its way to the floor where carpeting, wood and linoleum were once the standard. Natural stone has also found its way into the bathroom vanity counters and tub and shower-stall walls.

General Rules for Cleaning and Maintenance of Natural Stone: ❖ Wipe up any spills immediately. ❖ Liquids like alcohol or citrus juices can actually corrode the stone surface if not removed quickly ❖ Don't place hot, wet, or abrasive objects directly on the stone. ❖ Use trivets or mats where needed. ❖ Regular cleaning with water and applying recommended dressing to the stone surface

Selecting the Right Stone Material: When shopping for stone, take into consideration three main things: â?– How will it fit into the other elements of the home in terms of looks and design. â?– Choose a stone that best suits the area it will be used in. â?– Weight the advantage of the price of stone over other material in longevity.

Four of the most popular stones used in houses are: 1. Granite: a. Unmatched in durability. b. Hard to scratch and even more difficult to stain.

Care: If cared for properly, granite will not fade over time. Use cutting boards to avoid scratching and scarring the countertops.

Never use an ammonia-based cleaner.

2. Marble: â?– Softer and more absorbent than granite. â?– Best used as backsplashes, floors, tub surrounds and vanity tops.

Care: Use water and a mild detergent to clean. Check with your flooring professional for the proper sealant and polish to use on marble.

3. Slate: a. Formed from the clay of ancient sea beds. b. Comes in deep greens, blues, grays and purples.

Care: Use only specialty cleaners with neutral or mild alkaline content.

Seal as needed.

4. Travertine: a. Has holes and divots in the natural surface that give it a spongelike appearance. b. Best used as bathtub surrounds, countertops and shower tiles.

Care: Be vigilant about wiping up spills quickly in order to keep liquids them pooling in the holes.

Corporate Headquarters:Granite Gold Inc. 9170 Chesapeake Drive San Diego, CA 92123 858-499-8933 800-475-STONE (7866)

For more information visit: http://www.granitegold.com

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