NATURAL STONE CARE

Natural stone requires a different maintenance routine than ceramic tile. Many of the cleaners acceptable for use on ceramic tile can stain, damage, or dull stone. Natural stone should be cleaned with neutral cleaners (should never contain acid or bleach, but they should be concentrated neutral pH cleaners that will not affect existing sealers or wax-type coatings). Even a light solution of vinegar and water, will etch and eventually damage natural stone.
A solution of the cleaner and water mixed to manufacturer instructions should be applied to the tile surface with a sponge or mop. On walls, kitchen counters, or vanity tops, a spray bottle can be used to apply the cleaning solution. Be sure to change out the cleaning solution every 100 square feet to avoid reintroducing dirty water during the cleaning process. Rinse thoroughly with clean water when finished. After cleaning you may apply the Spray-Buff wax-type floor finish to enhance the beauty and luster of polished stone (including countertops). Apply the finish with spray applicator and buff immediately with a white nylon pad. Reapply as often as needed, depending on volume of surface traffic and consistency of routine maintenance program. This product is not designed to restore the original shine, but is intended to maintain and protect the original shine.

If a marble polish has become dull, scratched or etched, you can restore the natural shine through the use of a marble polish. Some marble polishes are available in kits. The process can be enhanced with the use of floor buffing machines. The process is generally a re-crystallization process to remove fine scratches and restore the original shine and polish to the stone. This is not an application of a topical sealer or wax to cover-up damaged or worn surfaces.

When stone areas have been neglected, you will need to use a heavy-duty stone cleaner and degreaser to effectively remove dirt, grease, grime, waxes, and floor finishes. These cleaning products are concentrated and designed to deep clean the stone without damaging it.