The care and cleaning of your tile floors, walls or countertops, should be a factor when choosing tile options. Especially, natural stone tiles and slabs. Marble, granite, travertine, limestone and slate are quarried products, and no two pieces are alike. Each stone tile or slab will have its own character, be it color, geological flaws, veins, even cracks. All these add to the natural beauty and will not impair the function or wearing qualities.
A regular regimen of maintenance will help your natural stone to become more resistant to scratching and wear. Natural stone, especially polished stone, is sensitive to harsh chemicals. Do not use vinegar or any cleaners containing acids or strong alkaline agents. Any spills should be wiped up immediately. Acid-based foods like citrus or tomatoes, can etch into the polish of more delicate stones like marble or onyx. Do not place hot articles on any stone other than granite.
Pro Custom Tile recommends wiping or mopping stone surfaces with warm water, followed by dry wiping or mopping. Products that are PH balanced can also be used to clean the stone.
When installing your stone tile, we strongly recommend a penetrating sealer be applied directly after installation of slabs. A quality sealer penetrates stone while allowing the stone to breathe, and permits more of the stone's natural beauty to shine through. Unsealed stone is more susceptible to absorbing moisture, dirt, and cleaning chemicals, leaving a dingy residue.
