Sigma Marble and Granite, Inc.

INTERIOR MARBLE, TRAVERTINE, LIMESTONE WALLS AND SHOWERS

CARE AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

Marble and limestone are natural products that have 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 WALLS AND SHOWERS, TO MAKE SURE THEY DO NOT HARM THE FINISH.         

INTRODUCTION                            

Marble and limestone are mostly composed of limestone and other sedimentary materials. Acids and Alkalis will react with these materials and will dull their finishes. In general their rank on the hardness scale is medium. That means that anything with a higher hardness (Quarts (found in sand), steel, etc.) will scratch them. Many of these materials are permeable (absorbent) depending on their composition and finish and can easily be stained by different liquids.

PREVENTIVE

With all this in mind, the three basic items to remember when caring for a marble & limestone walls and/or showers is:

1.      Keep wall clean. That will definitely reduce the wear and tear on it and the need to refinish it.

2.      Do not use harsh chemicals to clean it.

3.      Wipe off spills immediately, so the damage is minimized.

DO’s

·        Clean frequently with a CLEAN rag and CLEAN WATER.               

·        Use PH Neutral detergents to clean deposits, fingerprints and discolored grout and caulk joints.

·        In showers rinse soap and scum immediately after use. That will minimize the formation of hard soap deposits.

·        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.

·        In case of stains try “K2R” spot remover (test first). Call a stone maintenance professional to remove harder stains.

DON’Ts

·        Do not use abrasive pads or cleaners to clean the walls.

·        Do not leave soap deposits overnight even if the walls are sealed. Sealers do not protect the finish against etching.