Top 3 Big Natural Stone Cleaning Mistakes To Avoid
Natural stone is ideal for a range of applications due to its many versatile characteristics. Providing a stylish yet durable surface, natural stone is commonly used for kitchen benchtops, paving, flooring, cladding and walls along with many other uses. This material is strong and durable, which is why it’s such a popular option in both residential and commercial properties.
Granite, Quartz, Marble, Travertine and Onyx are the most commonly installed natural stones found in Perth homes, each with their own advantages and sought after qualities.
Specific to your desired aesthetic, use for the stone and budget, installing natural stone in your Perth home can provide great benefits.
To maintain the shine and beauty of your natural stone, it’s important to regularly clean and care for the surface. Natural stone is commonly treated the same as hard wooden floors or glass windows when it comes to cleaning, which often leads to structural damage and scratches or stains. Some natural stones such as marble are chemically reactive and therefore must be cleaned in a particular way to prolong their lifespan.
Our experts here at Aurora Stone have compiled a list of cleaning mistakes to avoid to help you care for your natural stone:
Using Vinegar or Bleach
It’s crucial to avoid using vinegar, bleach or any other highly acidic liquids to clean your natural stone. Scientifically referred to as degradation by acids, due to the acidic nature of these liquids, when stones such as marble and travertine come into contact, it can degrade the stone rapidly. Burning and etching can occur, changing the colour of the stone and disrupting the smooth surface.
For granite stone, vinegar doesn’t cause any significant damage to the stone itself, though it can break down the applied sealer, meaning the stone will need resealing more frequently. It’s best to use cleaning products with a neutral pH level when cleaning your stone.
Take a look at some tips on how to clean and maintain your granite benchtops.
Using Abrasive Brushes and Sponges
Using rough or coarse sponges to try and remove stains or etching from your natural stone will not only be unsuccessful but also damage the stone even more. Scrubbing brushes have an abrasive effect and should never be used to clean natural stone.
The better alternative is using a mild solution and soft cloth to try and remove marks or stains. If your stone is scratched, the best way to repair your stone is by calling professional natural stone installers or repairers.
Unmaintained Sealing
Regular stone sealing is considered a part of general stone maintenance and care. Stone resealing is recommended every three to five years or more frequently for surfaces with high foot traffic and exposure to sunlight.
Unsealed stone becomes damaged rapidly. Staining can occur in just a few minutes, even after the spill is completely wiped up. Unsealed stone absorbs pigments and grease quickly which can lead to needing the entire stone replaced. Regular and proper sealing is essential in your stone care routine.
While natural stone is generally a long lasting, excellent material, its quality depends on the supplier you choose. Aurora Stone has been providing natural stone products to customers in the Perth area for over 30 years. As such, you can trust that we’ll provide you with quality materials and outstanding service from start to finish. Get a free measure and quote and Contact Aurora Stone today!
