They need routine care to keep your natural stone floors, countertops, and other surfaces looking their best. Follow these tips to keep your stone clean, maintain its luster, and protect it from the harsh effects of daily traffic.
Different types of stone require different kinds of care. Knowing your stone’s geological classification will help determine the best commercial stone maintenance, NY.
Clean Regularly
A commercial stone floor requires a little extra care than other flooring options. You want to avoid damaging the softer natural stones by using abrasive sponges, scouring pads, and brushes.
Always use a mild soap and water solution to clean your stone. Wiping with a microfiber cloth, duster, or mop will help remove dust without leaving scratches on the surface.
You should also be aware of common stains on the stone that can cause permanent damage to the surface. These stains include iron, rust, copper, and bronze.
These stains can often be removed with a commercial-grade poultice, but you should consult a professional if the stain persists after a thorough cleaning. Please do not use bleach, as it can etch the stone.
Clean as Needed
One of the most important aspects of stone maintenance is cleaning as needed. This includes regular dust mopping to remove sand, dirt, and grit from the surface of your stone floor or counter.
Daily dust mopping can prevent a lot of wear and tear on your stone surface and keep it looking its best. If sand and dirt are left unattended, they can quickly build up and scratch your stone, dulling its sheen.
Keeping your stone clean will help reduce the number of stains you must deal with and prevent unsightly water spots and rings. Stains that are difficult to remove may require a professional stone restoration company to treat them.
Seal Once a Year
Stone is porous by nature, and certain liquids will easily stain natural stone surfaces when it isn’t sealed. Sealing a stone prevents these types of stains and ensures the longevity and beauty of your countertop or floor.
A sealant will also protect your stone from etching that’s caused by acidic foods and cleaning products. However, sealant will only provide an extra barrier for your stone; you still need to clean up spills quickly and use trivets or cutting boards when meal prepping.
When determining the appropriate time to seal your stone, remember that it’s best to re-seal it once a year for high-traffic areas and less often for out-of-the-way rooms (like guest bathrooms). Keeping your stone in good condition will make your home look great and healthy.
Keep it Clean
One of the most important aspects of commercial stone maintenance is keeping it clean and tidy. Stone floors receive a lot of footfall and are susceptible to stains, dirt, and grime.
Taking care of your stone floor regularly can greatly extend its life. Using a soft-bristle broom or dust mop daily removes most of the abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
It is also important to avoid cleaning your natural stone with products that contain lemon juice, vinegar, or acids which can dull and etch the surface of your stone. Instead, use a neutral liquid “All-Purpose-Cleaner”, detergent, or a cleaning solution that is specifically designed for stone.
Mix a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide for tough stains to make a stain remover. This will remove stains without damaging the stone.