Your natural stone is an investment in lasting beauty that will give you many years of enjoyment. This care guide gives you a few tips on how to properly care for your natural stone and help extend its life and beauty. Following some simple procedures, and using the correct cleaning methods and products, will ensure you a lifetime of enjoyment from your natural stone. SEALING YOUR STONE Natural stone has 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 is vital. Also, proper cleaning methods are vital to help the sealer last longer and keep your stone protected without damaging your stone’s natural beauty. We exclusively recommend that you contact our friends over at www.SDGraniteSeal.com and see their newest offerings in LotusCoat™ stone sealers. CLEANING PROCEDURES & RECOMMENDATIONS Using a neutral cleaner specially formulated for natural stone will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp cleaning leave behind. Orange County Granite Repair exclusively recommends a safe cleaner such as Refresh™ which is available online from GraniteDoc. The non-toxic, pH balanced formula is all you need for daily cleaning. Do not use general purpose cleaners or you may damage your stone or break down the sealer. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids as these may etch the stone surface and damage the polish. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface. Acids Can Etch Into Your Stone If Not Properly Cleaned & Revitalized Many common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface. In the bath area, some common spills are hairspray, cosmetics, toiletries (e.g., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash). These may contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer. It is important that these spills be removed from the stone as soon as possible. In the shower and other wet areas, remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. Also, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup. Dust mop interior stone 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 clear water as needed. WHAT TO DO WHEN A SPILL OCCURS No matter how careful you are, spills are going to happen. A quick response and the right solutions can keep spills from damaging your stone or the sealer. FOOD SPILLS - Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon. Blot with dry, white cloth. Spray area with a safe cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. LIQUID SPILLS — Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth, turning the cloth frequently. Spray area with a safe cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. MUD — Let the mud stain dry completely. Remove dried mud with a soft plastic or nylon brush. Spray affected area with a safe cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain remains, contact a professional cleaner. ETCH MARKS — Substances that are highly acidic, such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and many soft drinks, will “etch” some stones, such as polished marble — even if they are sealed. Although sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull area or etch mark in the stone. Cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone or degrade the sealer. That’s why selecting the correct cleaning products is so important to the lifetime beauty of your natural stone. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your natural stone’s finish.

OCGR Stone Care Guide