Extend the Lifespan of Your Flooring with Regular Tile Care & Maintenance
Natural Stone Tile
Regular Cleaning:
It is recommended to clean natural stone with warm water or pH-balanced natural cleaners. Do not use scouring powders or creams, as they will mar the surface. Do not use vinegar, any acidic cleaners, or strong alkaline agents. To prevent soap scum build-up, use squeegees in shower areas.
Spills:
Whether stone products are sealed or not, all spills must be cleaned up immediately to avoid possible staining or acid burns. Acid-based foods or drinks can etch into the polish of more delicate stones such as marble and onyx.
Dirt:
To prevent damage caused by tracked-in dirt, place mats inside and outside of exterior entrances. Regular sweeping and vacuuming will prevent loose dirt from abrading your floor. Dirt is an abrasive and can defile natural stone flooring surfaces.
Repair:
There are many natural variations in natural stone tile, including color and shade variation, irregular markings, voids, pits, veins, and density. It is standard to repair these variations by waxing, grinding, or filling natural stone. Normal wear and tear can cause cracks and voids to appear. These can be repaired using grout or epoxy.
Sealer:
A high-quality sealer can be used to penetrate natural stone while allowing the stone's natural beauty to shine through. Unsealed stone is more prone to absorbing moisture, dirt, and cleaning chemicals. Tile Direct San Marcos makes no recommendation for or against applications to seal. Each job is different, and the buyer is responsible for consulting with the contractor to determine which sealer should be used.
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