Now is the time to think about your marble, granite, limestone, slate or travertine counter tops, vanities and floors, according to Stone Care International Inc.
Here are some tips from the company on how to treat and care for your valuable stone:
Test the sealer. Check to see if it's time to reseal your surfaces by placing a drop of water on the stone and letting it sit for about 15 minutes. If the surface darkens or the water is absorbed, reseal it as soon as possible. If the drop remains on the surface, clean it up but there is no need to reseal.
Reseal with care. If the stone does require resealing, select a water-based stone sealer, such as Stone Spray-NSeal that protects the surface from staining and is safe for kitchen and bathroom use. This and similar products are available at home improvement stores' kitchen departments.
Prevent dull surfaces. Polish your stone countertops and vanities to enhance color, prevent dulling, and to avoid beverage rings and shower wall streaks. If you are polishing countertops, be sure to use a product that is safe for kitchen and bathroom use.
Last minute clean up. If the seal is good and your surfaces are protected, be sure to wash stone surfaces before guests arrive with a water-based stone cleaner. Use products made for stone surfaces that do not require rinsing. Always avoid any acids, harsh chemicals, oils and standing water. Also, when using cleaners on countertops, make sure they are safe for food handling.
After the holidays. Once the guests are gone, check your stone surfaces to identify any stains. To remove stains, use a product that contains poultice powder, which works by reabsorbing stubborn stains from the natural stone surface.
For more: www.tulsaworld.com/countertop
Originally published by Staff Reports.
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