Sigma Marble and Granite, Inc.

Marble, Limestone Countertops and Vanities

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 FLOORS, 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 and limestone counters are:

1.      Keep your counters clean. That will definitely reduce the wear and tear on them and the need to refinish them.

2.      Do not use harsh chemicals to clean them.

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 stains.

·        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.

·        Always use coasters under your drinks. Carbonated drinks and wines will etch the surface even if it is sealed.

·        Wipe off spills immediately. Soaps and perfumes will affect the finish on your counters.

·        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 counters.

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

·        Don’t step, stand or lean heavily on your counters (especially near cutouts). They may break.

·        Don’t lay hot pans or irons on the Counters since they may break due to uneven expansion.

·        Avoid dragging boxes and other containers on the counters, since many times these have sand and dirt on the bottom that may scratch the surface. This happens a lot when moving in and out.

·        Avoid chopping or cutting on your counters. Metal will scratch them.