Sigma Marble and Granite, Inc.

GRANITE FLOORING AND WALLS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

Granite is a natural product that has many varying characteristics according to its color and finish. The following instructions are general and are meant to help understand the nature of this product in order to maintain it properly. Please do not hesitate to contact us at (214) 637-5200 if you have any questions or concerns.

NOTE: ALWAYS TEST A SMALL INCONSPICUOUS AREA WITH THE CHEMICALS AND DETERGENTS, THAT YOU INTEND TO USE ON THE FLOORS, TO MAKE SURE THEY DO NOT HARM THE FINISH.         

INTRODUCTION                            

Granite is mostly composed of igneous materials. It is a lot harder than marble and easier to maintain. In general its rank on the hardness scale is high, right below quarts. In fact many granites have quartz crystals embedded in them. Some granites are softer than others (Black) which make them more susceptible to wear and tear. Traffic patterns and the loss of polish on stone floors is mostly caused by dust, dirt, sand, and any other particles that may be present on the surface of floor during foot traffic. Many of these materials are permeable (absorbent) depending on their composition and finish and can be stained by different liquids. In general most granites are resistant to acids and alkalis found in detergents (Always test an area first- See above). The most vulnerable parts of a granite floor are the grout joints (staining). The stone itself is also susceptible to staining according to its color and finish and traffic patterns (Flamed and sandblasted finishes are more absorbent than polished).

PREVENTIVE

With all this in mind, the basic items to remember when caring for a Granite floor is:

1.      Keep the floor clean. That will definitely reduce the wear and tear on it and the need to refinish it. Black granites are softer than others and show traffic patterns quicker.

2.      Wipe off spills immediately, so staining is minimized to the grout joints and the stone.

DO’s

·        Clean frequently with a CLEAN MOP and CLEAN WATER and detergent, especially in high traffic areas               

·        Use brushes and detergent to clean scuffmarks, deposits and discolored grout joints.

·        Use mats at entryways to reduce the amount of dirt tracked in.

·        Clean spills immediately.

·        Use only penetrating sealers recommended by your installer or stone manufacturers on the more absorbent materials to minimize stains. Sealers should be applied by a professional.

·        Seek the help of a professional stone maintenance contractor for long-term care and maintenance.

DON’Ts

·        Do not use a DIRTY MOP. It may stain your granite and grout.

·        Do not roll heavy loads directly on your floor. The corners of the tile may break off. Use plywood or any other material to distribute the weight.