Natural Stone: How to Maintain it and Prevent Damage

We all agree that the natural stone you have in your home or building was a real investment on your part, that will last in your home for many years to come. However, damages are bound to happen in the wear in tear of everyday life, and we are here to help you out with that. 

Today we are going to talk about the two most common damages to natural stone, etch marks and scratches, and how to prevent them. 

ETCH MARKS 

Etch marks fall into the chemical surface damage category. This occurs to a natural stone finish when it is exposed to acidic or high alkaline substances. Also, water rings are considered etch marks, left by coffee cups, wine glasses, etc. 

Note: Granite is not as sensitive to acid, so you don’t have to worry about granite etch damage. 

So, how do you prevent etching?

Read the label on your cleaners! Avoid cleaners containing acids and other substances containing acids such as vinegar, lemon juice, ketchup, milk, fruit juice, milk, fruit juice, and wine on marble, limestone, travertine, onyx, or terrazzo surfaces. 

Accidents happen, so when they do clean up spills and splashes immediately with a pH neutral stone cleaner. Invest in a large cutting board to stop juices from splashing on the countertop!

Have your countertop and floors professionally and sealed.

SCRATCHES

Usually, scratches occur on the floor more than the countertop, and these can happen in a variety of ways. These ways can include moving around heavy objects on the floor, such as furniture, tracking dirt and sand in the house by wearing shoes inside in high traffic areas, and unkempt claws on our furry friends. 

Prevention:

Be sure to apply felt padding to all furniture that sits on your natural flooring, avoid wearing shoes in the home, and be sure to have your house pets claws clipped and groomed. 

WHAT IF THESE METHODS DON'T WORK?

Sometimes, no matter what you do, etch marks and scratches to flooring and countertops are just too deep to handle on your own. In this case, we recommend that you have them professionally restored to prevent any further damage. That’s where Marble Magic Restoration comes in; we are here for all your natural stone restoration needs, give us a call to set up a free consultation, at 904-881-2702.