Protection and Maintenance

A limestone or a marble that is properly maintained will keep its beauty for centuries to come. Proper care may vary depending on the use and the type of stone that you have. The following are general maintenance and care tips, if you have any questions, contact us or a stone care professional such as StoneTech Professional.

Your Limestone and Marble have been formed over millions of years, but improper care can ruin nature's beauty. Although we usually think of stone as "hard", it is a porous material that can absorb spills and stains if left untreated. Sealing your stone with a quality impregnating sealer will prevent most spills from damaging your investment.

There is a wide variety of sealers available, so you need to select one for your specific needs and natural stone type. Impregnating sealers, with new, advanced fluoropolymer technology, penetrate the stone and help protect it against water and oil-based stains. Industry professionals now recognize that natural stone is best protected with a fluoropolymer-based sealer.

Once sealed properly, your stone is protected against everyday dirt and spills. Proper cleaning will help the sealer last longer and keep your stone protected without damaging your stone's natural beauty.

Caution: Do not choose an impregnator sealer to protect the stone from acid etching. Impregnating sealers do not make the stone acid resistant.

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Cleaning Procedures & Recommendations

Keeping your stone free of dust and dry, sandy soil will minimize the scratches and wear-patterns that can develop from everyday use. Sweep or dust all natural stone surfaces regularly to remove loose soil and dust.

Clean your natural stone on a regular basis with warm water and a clean, non-abrasive cloth, sponge or mop. In addition, using a neutral cleaner specially formulated for natural stone will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp mopping leave behind. We recommend StoneTech Professional Revitalizer. This cleaner is developed especially for natural stone and tile care. Its unique blend of neutral cleaning agents makes it gentle on your stone while leaving behind an impregnating protective shield every time you clean.

Household chemicals are not formulated to clean your stone: do not use general purpose cleaners or you may damage your stone or the sealer applied. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids as these may etch the stone surface and damage the finish. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Countertops and Vanities Use an appropriate neutral PH cleaner on a spray bottle on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface. Also, some common toiletries (e.g., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer. New generations of cleaners not only clean but also reapply a thin coat of sealer in a single application.

Floor Surfaces Dust mop interior floors frequently using a clean non-treated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the potential damage from these particles. In addition, be careful when using a vacuum cleaner as the metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface.

Damp mop the stone floor with a neutral cleaner or stone soap. Keep off floor until completely dry, as wet stone floors may be slippery. Follow the directions on the label.

In most cases it is advisable not to put coatings or waxes on your natural stone floor. Coating can restrict the flow of air through the stone causing moisture related problems.

Baths and Showers Periodic use of a neutral PH cleaner will remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. In the bath, or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup. It is absolutely necessary to seal your stone showers. If mildew begins to grow in your shower or on your stone, it can be difficult to remove. Use a neutral cleaner to remove scum and mildew.

Proper care and maintenance may vary depending on the condition and type of stone that you have. If you have any questions, contact a stone care professional such as StoneTech Professional.