By: WAXIE Editorial Staff | August 12, 2011
Stone Floor Care Tips
There are thousands of types of stone that have been quarried throughout the centuries, and quarries are located all around the world. Stone is a natural solid formation of one of many minerals. These minerals came from the same liquid and gas minerals that formed the earth. Although these minerals are often difficult to identify, most of the minerals can be identified by their color, hardness and crystal formation. It is imperative to know the exact type of stone that is to be maintained.
Many people assume that stone is a permanent material that does not need maintenance or care, but if stone is neglected or abused, the natural beauty of the stone will not be preserved. After new stone is properly installed and protected with a penetrating sealer, permanent damage often occurs from neglect, incorrect cleaning methods and using chemicals that are not formulated for stone care.
Since natural stone is actually a chemical in a solid form, it can react to improper cleaning chemicals that are not specifically designed to clean natural stone surfaces such as marble, granite, limestone, slate, terrazzo, terra cotta, etc. Using chemicals that are not made for natural stone can cause fading, discoloration or dulling of the stone surface within days, weeks or even minutes. In order to preserve the natural beauty of stone surfaces, it is vital to use a daily maintenance program specifically designed for these surfaces.
Tip: Use coasters under drinks to help prevent rings from occurring on counters, etc.
Here are some general stone care recommendations:
If a stain is apparent in the stone, it usually can be removed with the proper procedures and products.
Natural stone and grout should be sealed with a penetrating sealer to help prevent staining.
Always maintain stone with clean rayon mops, sponge mops, towels and rags, and replace old ones because they lose their cleaning ability with age.
Always remove loose debris from stone surfaces to prevent scratching.
Pick up spills immediately to prevent staining and etching.
Use coasters under drinks to help prevent rings from occurring on counters, etc.
Use walk-off matting at entrances to keep outside sediment off the stone, and sweep, dust mop or vacuum floors and matting at least daily.
When mopping stone floors, change the cleaning solution every 500 square feet, since dirty solution can stain stone and grout.
Here are some common items that can damage stone surfaces: juices, shaving cream, alcoholic beverages, soda, perfume, cologne, nail polish remover, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, supermarket cleaning chemicals, dishwashing soap, hair perm chemicals, shampoos and body soaps that contain EDTA, rock salt, sand, toothpaste, drain openers, toilet bowl cleaners and any liquid that contains acid or alkali.
Always use soft bristled brushes, not floor pads, when cleaning stone floors with an autoscrubber.
Do not put coatings such as floor finishes on stone surfaces. Stone needs to be maintained naturally.
WAXIE Sanitary Maintenance Consultants can help you design a simple stone maintenance program for you. Whether you have stone floors, counter tops, shower walls, fountains, or vanities, we have a system for you. Contact us today at (800) 995-4466.