F R E Q U E N T L YA S K E DQ U E S T I O N S&T I P S

 

RECOMMENDED CLEANING PROCEDURES

Floor Surfaces
Dust mop interior 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 placed inside and outside an entrance minimize sand, dirt and grit that may scratch the stone floor.

The underside of the mat or rug should be a non-slip surface. Normally, it takes about eight steps on a floor surface to remove sand or dirt from the bottom of shoes.

Do not use vacuum cleaners that are worn. Metal or plastic attachments or damaged wheels may scratch the surface.

Other Surfaces
Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap (available at hardware stores or from Active Marble & Tile) or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water.

Use a clean rage mop on floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Change rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams as they contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Bath and Other Wet Areas
In bathrooms or other wet areas, soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a solution of ammonia and water (about ½ cup ammonia to a gallon of water). Frequent or over-use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface of the stone.

Vanity Top Surfaces
Vanity tops may require a penetrating sealer application. Contact Active Marble & Tile for recommended products. Application of a quality marble wax or non-yellowing auto paste wax will minimize water spotting.

Food preparation Areas
In food preparation areas, stone may require a penetrating sealer application. Contact Active Marble & Tile for recommended products. If a sealer is applied, use only a non-toxic product that is safe for use on food preparation surfaces. If uncertain, contact the sealer manufacturer.

Outdoor Pool & Patio Areas
In outdoor pool, patio or hot tub areas, flush with clear water and use a mild bleach solution to remove algae or moss.