Any house, whether having the stones in the kitchen or bathroom or outside, would really stand up through all those years with all kinds of durability. The reason remains to be maintained properly so that over the years, they’d appear just great. Maintenance along with the technique does wonders so that stones are utilized over years while maintaining all that natural beauty and that great durability. Here are five ways to extend your lifetime with stone surfaces, including keeping it at its best.
1. Clean with Mild, pH-Neutral Products
A simple way to care for stone surfaces is to employ mild, pH-neutral cleaning products. Stone surfaces, by their nature, are porous. It absorbs the harsh chemical components of most cleaning materials, which could then lead to discoloration or erosion after some time. Acidic and alkaline cleaning agents can also break stone surfaces and remove the surface oil of the stone so it will look well-polished. Use mild soap and water or a cleaner that is specifically designed for natural stone. Regular, gentle cleaning not only preserves the color and texture of the stone but also minimizes the chance of staining, which keeps your surfaces looking fresh and well cared for.
2. Seal Stone Surfaces Regularly to Prevent Stains
Sealing your stone surfaces is one of the most important things you can do to protect them from spills, moisture, and stains. A sealant acts as a barrier, reducing the porosity of the stone and preventing liquids from penetrating and causing long-term damage. Depending upon the type of stone and its location, sealing may be necessary every six months to two years. For high-traffic areas, such as kitchen countertops, resealing more frequently is advisable. Ensure that you follow the instructions in sealant products, for their proper application can lengthen the life of your stone by preserving its natural beauty as well as safeguarding it from everyday wear and tear.
3. Granite Refinishing
Granite refinishing by professionals will definitely give a new life to aging stone and restore the former shine of the stone itself. The stone surfaces made of granite might become dull over time. This is due to frequent use, scratching, and exposure to moisture. Resurfacing involves polish and resealing to shine and remove imperfections at the surface. No one but a professional will polish the stone without causing it to be damaged. By scheduling refinishing within your routine maintenance, you would have the opportunity to go on enjoying the shine in your granite for years, making your home stay pretty and in shape.
4. Protect Stone from Heavy and Sharp Objects
The stone surfaces are tough and resilient, but they may not be able to sustain the scratches, chips, or cracks that are made of heavy or sharp objects. Keep an eye on where your pots, pans, and heavy appliances land so that they don’t receive a direct hit on your stone countertops. Use cutting boards to avoid direct cutting that may scratch the surface and take away its sheen when using knives. You can also place felt pads underneath heavy objects so that their weight will be spread and not cause pressure points, which may crack.
5. Wipe Up Spills Immediately to Avoid Staining
Stone surfaces are porous and thus susceptible to stains from liquids, such as wine, juice, coffee, and oil. If the spills are not cleaned up immediately, the liquids seep into the stone and permanently stain it. Clean spills as soon as possible to prevent them from being absorbed. Use a mild stone cleaner for oily spills because soap and water are not effective. This would help you avoid the onset of spots on your stone surfaces and ensure that it remains clean and polished for many years.
Conclusion
A few simple steps maintained consistently can really prolong the life of your stone surfaces and preserve their beauty. Gentle cleaning products, periodic sealing, scheduling a date for granite refinishing, protection against heavy objects, and quick cleaning of spills can help your stone surfaces remain in great condition. Next are some easy ones, but they do make all the difference: keeping your stone fresh and healthy and maintaining its appearance for longer periods.
