Maintaining your Touch of Stone

Natural stone countertops require cleaning with specialized pH

neutral cleaners designed specifically for stone surfaces. These

concentrated cleaners preserve existing sealers and protective

coatings while effectively maintaining your stone's beauty.

**Important:** Never use acidic cleaners or bleach on natural stone.

Even mild solutions like vinegar and water will etch and

permanently damage many stone varieties.

**For routine cleaning:**

1. Apply a solution of pH neutral cleaner and water (mixed according

to manufacturer instructions) using a sponge or spray bottle

2. Allow the solution to dwell for the recommended time to ensure

proper penetration

3. Gently agitate with a soft sponge or soft-bristle brush

4. Remove the cleaning solution with a clean, damp sponge

5. Buff the surface dry with a soft cloth

Some textured stone surfaces may require specialized cleaning

methods beyond these general guidelines.

 When your stone surfaces require more intensive cleaning, use a

professional-grade heavy-duty stone cleaner and degreaser to

effectively remove accumulated dirt, grease, grime, and waxes

without damaging the stone.

**For deep cleaning:**

1. Apply the solution according to manufacturer instructions

2. Allow it to dwell for the specified time

3. Gently agitate with a soft sponge or brush

4. Remove the solution with a clean sponge

5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water

6. Dry the surface completely with a soft cloth

Replace your cleaning solution every 100 square feet to prevent

reintroducing contaminants. Always minimize the time liquids

remain on any natural stone surface and dry thoroughly after

cleaning.

Stone-specific poultice products can effectively remove stains and

grout haze. These fine, non-acidic, absorptive clay powders draw out

stains from both polished and unpolished natural stone surfaces.

The effectiveness of a poultice depends on:

- The type of stain

- How long the stain has been present

- The porosity of your stone

Select the appropriate poultice based on the nature of the stain. Deep

or long-standing stains may require professional treatment. Always

clean spills immediately, especially on light-colored marble and

limestone, which are particularly susceptible to staining.

**Caution:** Poultice treatments may temporarily dull polished stone

surfaces. If this occurs, use a quality stone polish to restore the

natural shine.

 If your natural stone has become damaged or shows significant wear,

we recommend consulting a professional stone restoration specialist.

Proper stone selection is crucial for environments where acid

exposure is likely. Calcium carbonate and calcite-based stones

(primarily marble and limestone) are especially reactive to even mild

acids like lemon juice, vinegar, and tomatoes.

Acid exposure causes etching—a permanent alteration of the stone

surface that cannot be removed without professional refinishing. On

polished surfaces, acid etching

Some white or very light-colored marbles and onyxes possess a

crystalline structure that naturally transmits light. This translucence

varies depending on the stone's thickness and finish. Rather than

being considered a defect, this natural property creates an

aesthetically intriguing, decorative attribute that enhances the

stone's unique character.