Quartz Mineral Surfaces:
Mindful solutions for long-lasting beauty.
Caring for your quartz mineral surface countertops is simple and rewarding, ensuring they maintain their stunning appearance for years to come. There is minimal differences between the care of natural stone and quartz mineral surfaces. Start by wiping down the surface with a soft cloth and mild soap or a gentle cleanser regularly to remove dirt and spills. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface. For stubborn smudges, a non-abrasive sponge and a bit of baking soda can work wonders. While quartz is resistant to scratches, using cutting boards for food preparation will help keep your countertops looking pristine. Additionally, protect them from high heat by using trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans. With these easy care tips, your quartz countertops will continue to shine, combining beauty with functionality in your home.
Quartz mineral surfaces are an engineered product and each manufacturer varies slightly in their recommendations for care and cleaning. World Stone Group highly recommends that you research the care and cleaning instructions from the specific manufacturer your countertop originates from.
Natural Stone:
A little care can go a long way
The natural stone you have in your home, office, or commercial building is an investment that will give you many years of beauty, use, and reliability. Simple care and maintenance will help preserve your stone’s beauty for generations to come.
The information below is provided by the Natural Stone Institute.
Natural Stone Identification
Natural stone can be classified into two general categories according to its composition: siliceous stone or calcareous stone. Knowing the difference is critical when selecting cleaning products.
Siliceous stone is composed mainly of silica or quartz-like particles. It tends to be very durable and relatively easy to clean with mild acidic cleaning solutions. Types of siliceous stone include granite, slate, sandstone, quartzite, brownstone and bluestone.
Calcareous stone is composed mainly of calcium carbonate. It is sensitive to acidic cleaning products and frequently requires different cleaning procedures than siliceous stone. Types of calcareous stone include marble, travertine, limestone and onyx. What may work on siliceous stone may not be suitable on calcareous surfaces.
Granites and marbles are quarried throughout the world in a variety of colors with varying mineral compositions. In most cases, marbles and granites can be identified by visible particles at the surface of the stone. Marble will normally show “veins” or high concentrations. The minerals in granite will typically appear as small flecks distributed uniformly in the stone. Each type of stone is unique and will vary in color, texture and marking.
Natural Stone Care & Precautions
Here are some general tips that are helpful for most countertop options. Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the surface of many stones. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and placemats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that can scratch the surface.
Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap (available at hardware stores or from your stone dealer), or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a clean soft cloth 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. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
Natural Stone Do’s & Don’ts
Do clean surfaces with mild detergent or stone soap.
Do thoroughly rinse and dry the surface with clean, clear water after washing.
Do blot up spills immediately.
Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice, or other cleaners containing acids on marble, limestone, travertine, or onyx surfaces.
Don’t use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, or tub & tile cleaners.
Don’t use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
Don’t mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.
Don’t ever mix chemicals together unless directions specifically instruct you to do so.
