CONSIDERING PROFESSIONAL STONE RESTORATION

Thinking about putting your house on the market? Here’s why you should consider professional stone restoration first

If you’re planning to sell your home, maximizing your property’s appeal and value is likely at the top of your to-do list. While homeowners often focus on fresh paint or landscaping, one high-impact yet frequently overlooked detail is the condition of natural stone floors and countertops. Marble, granite, travertine, and other natural stone surfaces can significantly influence potential buyers’ first impressions. Here’s why investing in professional stone restoration before listing your home could provide a tremendous return on investment.

Elevate Your Home’s Aesthetic Appeal

Natural stone can be a showstopper—but only when it’s in good condition. Over time, foot traffic, spills, and everyday wear can cause dullness, scratches, and staining that diminish the elegance of your floors and countertops.

• Restored beauty: Professional restoration brings back the original shine and color variations that make natural stone so special.
• Cleaner, brighter space: Smooth, polished stone reflects light more effectively, making rooms appear larger and brighter.

When buyers walk into a home with gleaming marble floors or impeccably maintained granite countertops, they immediately get the sense that the property has been well cared for.

Remove Stains and Signs of Wear

Stubborn stains, etching, and scratches on stone surfaces can be challenging for homeowners to fix on their own. Professional stone restorers employ specialized techniques, such as:

• Diamond grinding and honing: To level uneven surfaces and remove deep scratches.
• Polishing: To bring back the stone’s natural luster.
• Sealing: To protect against future stains, spills, and wear.

By effectively removing existing imperfections and protecting against new ones, restoration ensures your stone surfaces look pristine for showings and open houses.

Increase Perceived Value

Buyers appreciate homes that appear “move-in ready.” Visible scratches or dull spots in stone flooring and countertops can send a message that the property needs additional work, potentially lowering offers or deterring buyers altogether.

• Higher asking price: A well-maintained home can command a higher price.
• Fewer buyer objections: Addressing aesthetic and maintenance concerns before listing can reduce buyer requests for concessions later.

Since high-quality stone installations often carry a premium price tag, making sure these features look their best can help justify a robust listing price.

Make a Great First Impression Online

Online listings are often the first place potential buyers see your home. If the photos showcase shiny marble floors or sleek granite countertops, it can pique interest right away.

• Professional photography: Stone surfaces that have been professionally restored will look especially impressive in high-resolution photos.
• More showings: Beautiful images encourage more buyers to schedule a viewing.

In a competitive real estate market, every advantage counts. Eye-catching details—like the sparkle of polished stone—can drive traffic to your listing.

Extend the Life of Your Stone Surfaces

Selling your house isn’t just about capturing short-term value; it’s also about providing peace of mind to potential buyers. Showing that your stone floors and countertops have been well cared for and recently restored signals that:

• You’ve invested in regular maintenance: The surfaces are less likely to have hidden damage.
• Buyers won’t face costly repairs soon: A major selling point if someone is on the fence between multiple properties.

A professional sealant applied during restoration extends the life of natural stone, keeping it looking great and reducing long-term maintenance expenses.

Restoration Is More Cost-Effective Than Replacement

Natural stone replacement projects can be expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, the vast majority of dull, stained, or scuffed surfaces can be revitalized without the need for a full replacement.

• Lower costs: Restoration often costs only a fraction of what you’d spend on new stone.
• Faster timeline: Skilled professionals can restore your stone more quickly than an installation crew can replace it, meaning your home can be on the market sooner.

This balance of lower cost and high impact makes professional stone restoration a savvy choice for home sellers looking for a strong return on investment.

How to Get Started

If you’re considering stone restoration:

1. Reach out to your stone restoration PRO : Schedule a time to evaluate your surfaces, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed quote.
2. Plan ahead: Schedule the restoration at least a couple of weeks before listing. This ensures the work is complete by the time your real estate photos are taken.
3. Coordinate with your real estate agent: They’ll likely have guidance on timing and staging the property to highlight your newly polished stone.

Conclusion

When you’re preparing to sell, every detail matters. Natural stone floors and countertops, when professionally restored, can dramatically boost your home’s overall appeal and help justify a stronger asking price. The result? Beautiful listing photos, a memorable first impression for buyers, and the potential for a faster sale at a higher value.

So, if you’re thinking of putting your house on the market soon, consider investing in a professional stone restoration service first. It’s a transformative improvement that can pay dividends in your final sale price and make the process of selling your home a smoother and more rewarding experience.

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By Deborah Shaw Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

TILE AND GROUT CLEANING

Having your tile and grout professionally cleaned is a smart investment for several reasons, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.

Here’s why you should consider professional cleaning services for your tile and grout:

Improved Appearance:

Look around at your tile floors and surfaces. What do you see? Do you see stains? Are your grout lines the same color over here vs. over there?  Over time, tile and grout can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains that regular cleaning methods simply can’t remove. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions designed to break down and lift stubborn dirt and restore your surfaces to their original state of clean and pristine. This can make a significant difference, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms where grime tends to build up more quickly. Your floors, countertops, and shower walls will look brand new with a deep, thorough cleaning.

Healthier Environment:

Grout especially can harbor harmful bacteria, mold, and allergens, particularly in areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms. Professional tile and grout cleaning services use industry-grade tools that can remove mold, mildew, and bacteria, improving the air quality in your home or business. This is particularly important for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. Professional deep cleaning eliminates hidden bacteria and germs, contributing to a healthier living space.

Grout Sealing is a Game Changer:

Grout is naturally porous, so it absorbs moisture and dirt over time, making it increasingly difficult to clean. Sealing your grout lines helps protect against future stains, keeping your surfaces cleaner and more durable. Grout Color Sealing is a true game changer: it not only seals the grout lines but also lets you restore a consistent color—or even switch from dark to light, or vice versa. A high-quality professional grout color seal also contains continuous-acting mildewcides and can last for years, ensuring your grout stays fresh and protected.

Time and Effort Savings:

Cleaning tile and grout thoroughly requires more than just scrubbing with a mop or rag. It’s a time-consuming task that involves specialized tools and techniques. Professionals not only have the right equipment but also the knowledge to do the job efficiently and effectively, saving you countless hours of frustration and effort.

Preservation of Tile and Grout:

By investing in professional cleaning, not only can you have a cleaner, healthier environment, you can also protect your surfaces from damage, and also keep them looking great, which can save you money on repairs or replacements in the long run.

Talk to your tile & grout cleaning PRO about your tile surfaces. It is very much worth the investment.

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By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of Caring For It articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Thinking About Ripping Out Your Carpet and Restoring Your Terrazzo Floors? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve discovered terrazzo under your carpet, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure. Terrazzo floors, with their distinctive blend of colorful chips and smooth, glossy finish, can bring timeless beauty to your home. However, uncovering and restoring terrazzo isn’t as simple as yanking up the carpet—it requires careful handling to avoid damage.

Here’s what you need to know before you move forward with the restoration process.

Leave Tack Strip Removal to the Pros

One of the most important steps when removing carpet from terrazzo is dealing with the tack strips—the wooden strips with nails that hold the carpet in place. These strips are often nailed or screwed directly into the terrazzo. If they’re pulled out, they can take chunks of terrazzo with them, leaving behind holes and unsightly damage.

A professional will carefully cut the tack strips flush with the terrazzo surface to prevent damage. This method avoids unnecessary repairs and preserves the integrity of the floor.

Let the Experts Handle Adhesive Removal

In some cases, carpet padding may have been glued down, leaving behind sticky or hardened adhesive residue. Removing this residue requires the right tools and products to avoid etching or scratching the terrazzo surface. Your professional stone restoration contractor has specialized products and techniques to safely and effectively remove adhesive without harming the terrazzo.

Avoid Scratches and Chips

Scraping at residue with metal tools, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals can cause scratches or even discoloration. Professionals know how to approach terrazzo with the care it requires, using gentle yet effective methods to ensure the surface remains intact and ready for restoration.

Prepare the Space for Restoration

Once the carpet is gone, your restoration team will take the necessary steps to repair, clean, and polish the terrazzo. Before they begin, make sure the room is cleared of furniture and valuables. Restoration work can sometimes produce dust, so you may also want to cover nearby areas and check that air vents are protected.

Terrazzo Repairs Require Expertise

If there are chips, cracks, or holes, your restoration contractor will repair them using materials that match the terrazzo’s color and composition. This process requires precision to ensure the repairs blend seamlessly with the surrounding surface. Attempting to patch these areas yourself with general fillers or patching kits can lead to mismatched, obvious repairs.

Trust the Process

Restoring terrazzo is a multi-step process involving deep cleaning, grinding to remove imperfections, and polishing to achieve that signature high-gloss finish. It may take time, but the result will be stunning, with a floor that looks brand new and shines for years to come.

Ask for Maintenance Recommendations

Once your terrazzo has been restored, your contractor will provide tips for keeping it in pristine condition. Most terrazzo floors do best with a pH-neutral cleaner and regular sweeping or dust mopping to prevent grit from dulling the surface.

Restoring terrazzo after carpet removal can transform your home and reveal a beautiful, durable surface. By hiring a professional to handle every step—from cutting tack strips flush to removing adhesive and polishing—you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure your floors look their absolute best.

If you’ve uncovered terrazzo and are ready to breathe new life into it, reach out to your stone PRO to guide you through the process and bring out the full potential of your floors.

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By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

SOAPSTONE CARE TIPS

Soapstone countertops are prized for their natural beauty, durability, and unique appearance, but they require specific care to keep their looks and functionality.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your soapstone countertops:

Daily Cleaning

For routine cleaning, simply use a soft cloth or sponge with mild dish soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface. Soapstone is non-porous, so it is naturally resistant to stains and bacteria, making everyday cleaning a breeze.

Regular Oiling/Waxing

One of the distinct characteristics of soapstone is its darkening over time. To ensure an even, rich color, apply mineral oil or soapstone wax periodically. Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly. Once dry, apply a small amount of mineral oil or wax using a soft cloth. Spread the oil/wax evenly across the countertop, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. Initially, you may need to repeat this process every few weeks. Over time, as the soapstone patinas, the frequency will reduce to a few times a year.

Handling Stains and Scratches

While soapstone is dense and less prone to staining, oil-based substances can darken the stone temporarily. For deeper cleaning, a gentle soap and water solution will usually suffice. If scratches occur, they can often be sanded out with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit, followed by 220-grit). After sanding, reapply mineral oil or wax to blend the repair with the rest of the surface.

Avoiding Damage

Despite its durability, soapstone is softer than some other countertop materials. To prevent damage, use cutting boards when chopping food and trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans. While it’s heat-resistant and can handle brief contact with hot items, prolonged exposure can cause cracking.

Long-Term Maintenance

Regular oiling/waxing and prompt attention to any damage are key to maintaining soapstone countertops. Over the years, the patina will develop, giving your countertops a unique and aged look. Embrace this natural evolution as part of the charm of soapstone.

Caring for soapstone countertops involves simple, regular maintenance and gentle handling. With proper care, these countertops can remain beautiful and functional for many years, adding a timeless elegance to your kitchen or bathroom.

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By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Did you know that the finish on your stone can be changed? Whether you’re looking to tone down the high-gloss of a polished floor, elevate a matte finish to a mirror-like sheen, or explore decorative finishes, transforming your natural stone’s finish is an option to give your space a fresh, new look.

Natural stone stands in a league of its own among surface materials, offering an unparalleled blend of durability and adaptability. Unlike other surfaces that may need complete replacement when worn or damaged, natural stone can be restored to its original glory—even if it’s scratched, cracked, or chipped. But restoration is just the beginning. With natural stone, you have the unique opportunity to dramatically transform its appearance—for example, taking it from a high-polish finish to a sophisticated matte or satin sheen, or vice versa. This ability to refinish and reinvent makes natural stone not just a material choice, but a long-term investment in versatility and style.

Before diving into the possibilities, let’s briefly explore the most common stone finishes:

1. Polished Finish: Achieved by grinding the stone surface with fine abrasives, this finish creates a reflective, high-gloss surface that highlights the stone’s natural colors and veining.
2. Honed Finish: Offers a smooth, satin-like surface with less shine than polished stone, making it a popular choice for floors and countertops where subtle elegance is desired.
3. Matte Finish: A non-reflective surface that gives a soft, natural look, ideal for creating a rustic or understated aesthetic.
4. Decorative Finishes: Includes unique textures like leathered, flamed, brushed, or sandblasted finishes, each adding distinct character to the stone.

Changing Your Stone’s Finish

Thanks to advanced stone restoration techniques, you can transform your stone’s finish to suit your design vision or functional needs.

From Polished to Satin or Matte Finish

If you have a high-gloss polished floor and prefer a softer, understated look, changing to a satin or matte finish is a straightforward process:

• Honing: Technicians use diamond abrasives to remove the polished layer, revealing a satin-like finish underneath.
• Benefits: Satin or matte finishes are less reflective, making imperfections like scratches or smudges less visible. They also provide better slip resistance, which is ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with children and pets.

From Matte to High Polish

Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with the luxurious look of polished stone and want to elevate your existing matte finish. This transformation involves:

• Polishing with Fine Abrasives: A combination of polishing compounds and diamond pads restores the stone to a high-gloss sheen, amplifying its natural colors and details.
• Benefits: A polished finish is perfect for creating a luxurious ambiance and enhancing the vibrancy of the stone’s veining and patterns.

Is It Right for You?

Changing your stone’s finish can:

• Refresh Your Space: A new finish can dramatically alter the look of your room, giving it a modern or classic feel.
• Improve Functionality: Different finishes offer varying levels of slip resistance, maintenance requirements, and durability, allowing you to choose what best fits your lifestyle.
• Highlight New Trends: As design trends evolve, a new finish can help keep your space looking current.

The Process

While some minor maintenance can be done by homeowners, altering a stone’s finish is a process that requires professional equipment and expertise. Your skilled stone restoration contractor will use specialized tools and techniques to ensure the surface is transformed without compromising the stone’s integrity.

Maintenance After a Finish Change

After altering your stone’s finish, remember, proper care will keep it looking beautiful:

• Sealing: Depending on the stone type and finish, your technician may recommend sealing the surface to protect it from stains and moisture.
• Cleaning: Use stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaners to avoid damaging the new finish.
• Periodic Maintenance: Regular professional maintenance can help preserve the finish and extend the life of your stone.

Final Thoughts

Changing the finish on your natural stone is a powerful way to update your space without the expense of replacing the material. Whether you’re going from polished to satin, matte to high-gloss, or exploring decorative finishes, the possibilities are endless. With the help of your stone restoration PRO, you can achieve a look that aligns with your aesthetic and functional needs while enjoying the enduring beauty of natural stone.

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By Deborah Shaw Nelson. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Natural stone surfaces, such as marble, granite, terrazzo, and limestone, are beautiful, durable, and timeless. However, even the toughest stones are subject to wear and tear over time. Foot traffic, spills, scratches, and exposure to the elements can leave stone surfaces looking dull, scratched, or stained. That’s where professional stone restoration comes in.

If your once-lustrous floors or countertops have lost their shine, stone restoration can bring them back to life. Let’s explore how this transformative process works and the stunning results it can achieve.

1. What is Stone Restoration?

Stone restoration is a specialized process that involves cleaning, polishing, and repairing natural stone surfaces to restore them to their original appearance. Whether it’s countertops, floors, or walls, stone restoration can eliminate imperfections like scratches, stains, and etching, all while enhancing the stone’s natural beauty. Stone restoration can also include changing the finish from a high-polish to a satin finish, for example, and vice-versa.

It goes beyond regular cleaning or sealing – it’s about restoring the stone’s shine, texture, and structural integrity, often making it look better than new. This process is ideal for both residential and commercial spaces that rely on the timeless elegance of stone.

2. Common Issues with Stone Surfaces

Over time, natural stone can suffer from a range of common problems that diminish its appearance and durability:

• • Dullness: Stone surfaces, especially high-traffic areas like floors, can lose their original shine. Foot traffic, dust, and everyday wear leave a dull finish.
  • Stains and Etching: Acidic substances like coffee, wine, or lemon juice can cause etching on stone surfaces, leaving visible marks or dull spots.
  • Scratches: Moving furniture, dropping heavy objects, or abrasive cleaning tools can leave scratches and gouges on the stone.
  • Chips and Cracks: Even strong stones like granite and marble can develop chips or cracks over time, compromising their appearance and function.

These issues not only detract from the aesthetics of the stone but can also lead to long-term damage if left untreated. Stone restoration addresses these problems at their root.

3. The Stone Restoration Process: From Dull to Dazzling

Here’s a breakdown of the key steps in a typical stone restoration process:

• • Inspection and Assessment: A professional will evaluate the stone’s condition, looking for areas that need repair, polishing, or sealing. Understanding the type of stone and its specific issues is essential for selecting the right restoration method.
  • Deep Cleaning: Specialized cleaning solutions are used to remove embedded dirt, stains, and grime from the stone. This step prepares the surface for the polishing or repair work ahead.
  • Grinding and Honing: If the stone surface has deep scratches, etches, or unevenness, a professional will use diamond abrasives to grind and hone the stone. This removes the damaged outer layer and restores a smooth, uniform surface.
  • Polishing: After honing, the stone is polished to restore its natural shine. This process uses progressively finer abrasives to bring out the stone’s glossy, reflective surface.
  • Crack and Chip Repair: For damaged areas, fillers are used to repair cracks and chips, blending them with the surrounding stone to create a seamless finish.
  • Sealing and Protection: To protect the newly restored surface, a professional will apply a high-quality sealer. This protects against future staining and helps maintain the stone’s glossy finish for years to come.

4. Benefits of Professional Stone Restoration

Stone restoration offers more than just a visual upgrade – it provides several key benefits:

• • Enhanced Aesthetics: Restoration revitalizes the natural beauty of stone, bringing out its vibrant colors and intricate veining. A polished stone surface can dramatically enhance the overall look of a room.
  • Cost-Effective: Restoring stone is often far more affordable than replacing it. Professional restoration can make old, worn stone surfaces look brand new at a fraction of the cost of new installation.
  • Longevity: Stone restoration repairs minor damage and adds a protective layer, increasing the lifespan of your stone surfaces. This preventative care ensures that your stone remains strong and beautiful for years to come.
  • Increased Property Value: Restored stone surfaces can significantly improve the appeal of a home or business. Polished stone floors, countertops, and entryways create a luxurious impression that adds value to any space.

5. Why You Should Hire a Professional Stone Restoration Company

While some cleaning and polishing tasks can be done at home, professional stone restoration requires specialized tools, knowledge, and experience. Hiring a professional stone restoration company ensures:

• • Expertise: Professionals understand the unique properties of each type of stone and can tailor the restoration process accordingly. They know how to achieve the best results without damaging the stone.
  • Advanced Tools: Stone restoration requires professional-grade equipment, including diamond abrasives and high-quality polishers that produce a flawless finish.
  • Time and Efficiency: A professional can complete the restoration process quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruption to your daily routine.

6. When Should You Consider Stone Restoration?

If your stone surfaces look dull, stained, scratched, or chipped, it’s time to consider professional stone restoration. Regular maintenance such as sealing and cleaning can extend the time between restorations, but eventually, every stone surface benefits from a professional touch.

Conclusion

Stone restoration is a game-changer for anyone who wants to revive the beauty and longevity of their natural stone surfaces. From dull to dazzling, the transformation is remarkable, giving your floors, countertops, and other stone features a fresh, elegant look. If you want to enhance the appearance of your space while protecting your investment, professional stone restoration is the answer.

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By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

When it comes to cleaning natural stone surfaces, it is very important to choose the right cleaner—or more importantly NOT choose the wrong cleaner —to maximize your stone’s beauty and integrity.

Natural stones, such as granite, marble, limestone, and travertine, require special care due to their porous nature and susceptibility to damage from acidic or abrasive substances. You might hear what sounds like sage advice from your Aunt Lois to just use vinegar and water, or a mixture of baking soda and something, but those are common myths that could result in damage to your stone.

First, it is essential to avoid acidic cleaners, as they can erode the surface of stone. This includes vinegar, lemon juice, and any cleaners with high acidity levels. Acidic substances can etch the stone and cause permanent damage.

Instead, always opt for quality pH-neutral cleaners specifically formulated for natural stone. These cleaners effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains without compromising the integrity of the stone.

Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads that can scratch the surface of the stone. Even seemingly soft materials like baking soda can be abrasive, so it’s best to be cautious and only choose gentle options.

You may hear for routine cleaning a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water is good to use. However, unless you rinse the stone very well, soap haze can build up and leave your surfaces dull over time.

In the case of stains, identify the type of stain and choose a cleaner designed to address that specific stain. For example, an oil-based stain may require a different approach than a water-based stain. Refer to our stain app or give us a call for specific instructions for treating stains safely and effectively.

Remember, regularly sealing natural stone surfaces helps protect them from stains and enhances their longevity. Consult with your stone care PRO to decide the proper sealing schedule for your specific type of natural stone.

Choosing quality, pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaners, will go a long way in preserving the beauty and durability of your natural stone surfaces.

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By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

If you’ve found yourself worrying that your beautiful granite countertop is secretly poisoning you, you’re not alone. There’s been quite a bit of chatter over the years about the potential dangers of granite countertops, particularly concerning radon gas and bacteria. But how concerned should you be?

Let’s dive into the facts so you can put those fears to rest and continue enjoying your kitchen with peace of mind.

The Radon Rumor

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that, in high concentrations, can be harmful. You might have heard that granite, being a natural stone, could emit radon, thus posing a risk to your home. While it’s true that granite, like many other natural materials, can contain trace amounts of radioactive elements, the amount of radon it emits is so minuscule that it’s virtually undetectable. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has looked into this issue and found that the levels of radon from granite countertops are insignificant. In fact, the radon levels emitted from granite are often lower than the background levels of radon that naturally occur in the air we breathe every day.

So, be assured and take comfort in your granite countertop is not a radon hazard and won’t contribute to any health risks in your home.

The Bacteria Buzz

Another concern that homeowners ask about is whether granite countertops harbor harmful bacteria. This worry likely stems from the idea that natural stone has tiny pores where bacteria could potentially hide and multiply. However, the reality is that granite is much more resistant to bacteria than other common kitchen surfaces. Granite is a dense and non-porous material, especially when properly sealed. This means it doesn’t provide the kind of environment that bacteria need to thrive.

When you clean your countertop with a simple soap and water solution or a gentle disinfectant, you’re effectively removing any bacteria that might have found their way there. Compared to other surfaces, like wood or, even certain types of synthetic countertops, granite is a top choice for maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen.

Granite Is Completely Safe

With all the myths debunked, it’s clear that granite countertops are not only beautiful and durable but also safe for you and your family. The fears about radon and bacteria are largely unfounded, and reputable studies have consistently shown that granite is a harmless and excellent material for kitchen surfaces. So, the next time you admire the elegance and natural beauty of your granite countertop, you can do so with complete confidence. Your granite countertop isn’t poisoning you—in fact, it’s one of the safest, most reliable choices you can make for your home. Enjoy it, and let it serve as the stunning centerpiece of your kitchen, worry-free!

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By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Natural stone countertops and floors add an elegant and timeless appeal to any home. However, maintaining their beauty requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to cleaning methods. Steam cleaners, known for their ability to sanitize and deep clean without chemicals, are popular for many surfaces. But are they safe for natural stone? Let’s explore this in more detail.

The Nature of Natural Stone

Natural stone surfaces, such as marble, granite, limestone, and travertine, are porous materials. Their pores can absorb liquids and are susceptible to staining, etching, and damage if not properly maintained. These stones often have a sealant applied to protect against such issues. Understanding the interaction between steam and these characteristics is crucial.

Potential Risks of Cleaning with Steam Cleaning

1. Sealant Damage: High heat and moisture from steam cleaners can degrade the sealant on natural stone surfaces. This compromises the protective barrier, making the stone more vulnerable to stains and damage from everyday use.
2. Moisture Penetration: Natural stone is porous, and excessive moisture can penetrate the surface, potentially leading to discoloration, weakening of the stone, or even mold growth in the long term.
3. Thermal Shock: Rapid temperature changes from the steam can cause thermal shock, especially in more delicate stones like marble. This may result in cracks or other forms of damage.

Steam cleaners are highly effective for many surfaces, but they may pose significant risks to natural stone countertops and floors, especially if used frequently. The high heat and moisture can damage sealants, penetrate the stone, and cause thermal shock. To preserve the beauty and integrity of natural stone, it’s best to stick with pH-neutral cleaners and gentle cleaning tools. Proper care ensures that your stone surfaces stay stunning and durable for years to come.

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By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Have you experienced your granite under appliances retaining its original color compared to the surrounding areas that have darkened over time? Here’s why and some tips to prevent and manage this issue.

Granite countertops are prized for their beauty and durability, often serving as a central piece in kitchens worldwide. However, homeowners sometimes discover a curious phenomenon: granite under appliances like toaster ovens or beneath placemats retains its original color, appearing lighter compared to the surrounding areas that have darkened over time. This article explores the causes behind this discoloration and offers tips on how to manage and prevent it.

Understanding Granite Discoloration

Granite is a natural stone composed of various minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and mica, which contribute to its color and pattern. While granite is known for its toughness, it is not wholly impervious to the effects of exposure to light, chemicals, and heat.

• Sunlight Exposure: Constant exposure to sunlight can cause the granite’s color to fade or darken, depending on the types of minerals in the granite. If the granite has been reinforced with resins, the resins may be affected by UV rays. Areas covered by appliances or mats are shielded from these effects, hence they retain their original appearance.
• Heat and Moisture: Heat from appliances like toaster ovens can influence the coloration around these areas. Moisture, whether from cooking, cleaning, or ambient humidity, can also seep into the stone if not properly sealed, leading to darkening due to mildew or other moisture-related reactions.
• Chemical Exposure:  In general, granite is very resilient and will not etch from common cleaning agents or spills from acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice, but some granites have binders that may react with certain chemicals and alter their color. Areas under appliances or mats are often protected from such exposure, preventing these chemical reactions.

Prevention and Remediation

To manage and prevent discoloration of granite countertops, consider the following tips:

• Regular Sealing: Apply a sealant to granite countertops at least once a year to protect against moisture and chemical penetration. This barrier can help maintain the uniformity of the stone’s color.
• Consistent Cleaning Practices: Use gentle cleaners specifically designed for natural stone. Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbing pads that might scratch or etch the surface.
• Sunlight Management: If possible, use blinds or curtains to minimize direct sunlight exposure on the granite surfaces, especially in areas prone to long-term sunlight exposure.
• Rotate Accessories: Periodically move appliances, mats, and other items sitting on granite surfaces to allow uniform exposure to light and air.

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By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.