Caring for Natural Stone: A Simple Guide
Understanding the Visual Characteristics
The visual characteristics of natural stone include color, pattern, and texture, which are formed by the geological processes that formed the stone over millions of years.
One of the challenges of using natural stone is ensuring consistency in the appearance of the material from slab to slab. While the overall pattern and color of a particular type of stone may be consistent, the exact veining, spotting, and color variations can vary from slab to slab. This is because natural stone is a product of nature and not manufactured in a controlled environment.
The Basics
Clean regularly: Regular cleaning is important to maintain the appearance of natural stone and to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the surface, and rinse with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid exposing natural stone to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, drain cleaners, and acidic substances, which can cause etching and discoloration.
Seal the stone: Proper sealing can help prevent liquids from penetrating the surface of natural stone, which can reduce the risk of staining and etching. Re-seal the stone as needed, based on manufacturer's recommendations and the frequency of use.
Clean up spills promptly: Clean up spills promptly to prevent liquids from soaking into the stone and causing stains. Use a soft cloth or sponge to blot up spills, and rinse with clean water if necessary.
Protect the surface: Use coasters and placemats to protect the surface of natural stone from spills, and place hot pans and dishes on trivets or hot pads to prevent thermal shock.
Avoid abrasive cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, such as steel wool and scouring pads, which can scratch the surface of natural stone.
Seek professional help: If you are unsure how to care for or maintain your natural stone, seek the help of a professional stone restoration specialist.
Placing a coaster on a wet surface of natural stone can be problematic because moisture can seep underneath the coaster and damage the stone. Moisture can cause the stone to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking and other types of damage
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your natural stone retains its beauty and durability for many years to come.
Calcareous Stones
Calcareous stones are a type of natural stone that are composed primarily of calcium carbonate. This type of stone can be found in various forms, including limestone, marble, and travertine. Calcareous stones are prized for their beauty and durability, and are commonly used for flooring, countertops, and other decorative surfaces.
in general, calcareous stones are considered to be relatively soft compared to other types of natural stone such as granite or quartz. This softness can make them more susceptible to scratches, chips, and other damage.
Calcareous stones can also be porous, meaning they have small spaces or voids in the material that can absorb liquids and stain.
Exposure to acidic substances can have a negative impact on the appearance and durability of calcareous stones. Acidic substances, such as red wine, citrus juices, and vinegar, can react with the calcium carbonate in the stone and cause etching, which results in a dull, matte appearance on the surface of the stone.
Additionally, strong acids, such as hydrochloric acid or muriatic acid, can cause severe etching and discoloration of calcareous stones. These reactions can occur quickly and can be difficult to repair, so it is important to clean up spills and stains promptly and avoid exposing the stone to harsh chemicals or acidic substances.
To minimize the risk of damage from acidic substances, it is recommended to clean up spills promptly and avoid exposing the stone to harsh chemicals or acidic substances. Additionally, it is recommended to use coasters and placemats to protect the surface of the stone from spills, and to properly seal the stone to help prevent liquids from penetrating the surface.
Siliceous Stones
Granite is a type of natural stone that is prized for its durability, strength, and beauty. This type of stone is formed from cooling magma or lava and is composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
In terms of performance, granite is known for its resistance to scratches, chips, and impacts, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas and outdoor applications. It is also resistant to staining and etching, making it a practical choice for kitchen countertops and other surfaces that are exposed to spills and stains.
Granite is also resistant to heat, making it a good choice for fireplace surrounds, hearths, and other areas where the stone may be exposed to high temperatures.
However, it is important to note that granite is a porous stone, which means it can absorb liquids and stain if it is not properly sealed. Additionally, some types of granite may be more prone to staining and etching than others, depending on their composition and the conditions in which they were formed.
Overall, granite is a durable and versatile option for various decorative and functional surfaces. To maintain its appearance and performance, it is important to properly seal the stone to help prevent staining and etching, and to clean up spills promptly.
Your Sealed Stone
Olivya Stone takes great care in protecting its natural stone options by applying a top-notch sealer, unless so requested for honed options. This added layer serves as a safeguard against potential staining caused by spills or other contaminants. While no sealing solution can provide 100% stain protection, the quality of the sealer Olivya Stone uses provides a longer window of time for cleaning up spills and minimizes the risk of staining. It's important to keep in mind that unsealed natural stone is much more susceptible to staining, compared to its sealed counterpart. To maintain the highest level of protection, Olivya Stone recommends reapplying the sealer every 1-3 years, based on the type of stone and usage frequency.