Tips on how to care for natural stone to keep it beautiful forever!!!

Stone is a valuable decorative material. Whether it's marble, granite, sandstone, or synthetic stone, each has its own unique beauty. However, this beauty will last depending on proper care. If neglected or used incorrectly, the stone may dull, darken, develop stains, or crack prematurely. Therefore, this article will help you understand how to care for stone surfaces in detail, from choosing how to care for marble to using the right tools and chemicals to ensure your home or building will be beautiful and durable in the long run.

Why is it important to care for your stone face?

Each type of stone has different properties. Some are strong and resistant to impact but susceptible to stains. Some are beautiful and luxurious but highly porous. Therefore, caring for stone surfaces does not just involve general wiping and scrubbing. You must also understand the characteristics of the stone to choose the appropriate method. For example, marble is luxurious but susceptible to acids and stains. Granite is very strong but still needs a polished coating. Sandstone has a natural texture but is prone to algae growth. Synthetic stone is easier to care for but still requires caution against extreme heat.

How to care for different types of stones

Marble Care

“Caring for marble” is a term that many people worry about, as marble is fragile and susceptible to absorption, stains, and certain chemicals. Here are some care tips you can use to prolong the life of your stone and maintain its beauty:

What to avoid and what to use

• Acidic substances should absolutely be avoided: Acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon juice, bleach or acidic cleaners, as they will corrode the surface, causing stains and loss of shine.
• What to use: Use a low-aerosol detergent or soap for cleaning, as it contains low acid content and will not damage the stone surface.

Cleaning equipment

• Use a microfiber cloth, clean towel, or chamois to wipe clean instead of scrubbing harshly. Using a soft cloth will help protect the surface from minor scratches.

Recommended products for marble care

For those who require specialized cleaning and are looking for stain-resistant products, Siamtak offers products specifically designed for stone.

• Tenax Bravo Stone Stain Cleaner (TENAX Bravo) : is a concentrated cleaning formula that can effectively remove a variety of dirt and grease stains, whether they are natural or synthetic stains such as wax, paint, tar, synthetic oil, ink, oil stains, animal and vegetable fats, or soap stains that have clumped together.
• Waterproofing and stain protection coating for marble and granite TENAX Proseal 1L TENAX Proseal Waterproofing and stain protection coating for marble and granite
• TENAX Ager is a color enhancing stone coating that enhances the color intensity of the stone, making it look more vibrant and shiny. It also helps to prevent stains. It can be used on all stone surfaces.
  
  

Additional tips

• Apply sealer every 6 months to prevent seepage and maintain shine. 
• If there are wine, coffee or tea stains, immediately wipe them off with a cloth dampened with clean water because even if the coating is applied, if the stain is left for more than 24 hours, it can cause the stains to seep into the stone.

Granite Care

Granite is a strong material, suitable for heavy-duty areas such as kitchen counters, bathroom floors, or hallways. Use plain water or mild soap to wipe regularly. Apply a sealer 1-2 times a year to prevent oil stains. Avoid hitting with sharp objects. Even though the stone is hard, it can still be scratched.

Additional precautions

For black granite, acidic cleaners should not be used as they will damage the stone surface. No sealants should be used on black granite as they will stain the stone.

Sandstone Care

Sandstone provides a natural feel and is commonly used for walkways, gardens, and decorative walls. However, it requires special care. Regularly sweep away dust and dirt. Use clean water to wash it. Avoid using harsh chemicals. Apply a waterproof and anti-algae coating periodically to prolong its life and maintain its color. 

Additional precautions

Although most people prefer to use sandstone for both interior and exterior decoration, this type of stone has limitations: its texture is softer than other types of stone, making it easy to absorb dirt and stains, and its relatively low strength makes it prone to breakage.

Engineered Stone Care

Synthetic stone is a mixture of natural stone powder and resin, making it strong and stain-resistant. However, it also requires care. Wipe with a cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Avoid placing extremely hot pots directly on the stone surface. If small scratches occur, they can be polished with a specialized stone polishing solution. Within the synthetic stone category, there are different types of stone, including:

• Synthetic quartz stone (Quartz Surface)

Synthetic quartz is known for its strength and scratch resistance, compared to many natural stones. It is ideal for use as a kitchen top, table, or countertop that is exposed to heavy daily use.

• Daily cleaning: Use a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and water or a neutral pH cleaner to wipe away any stains, followed by a clean, dry cloth to prevent water marks.
• Things to avoid: Do not use bleach, strong acids, or strong alkalis, as they may destroy the resin bonded to the stone. Also, do not place extremely hot pots directly on them, as this may cause the surface to crack.
• Bonus tip: To enhance the shine, wipe with a quartz polish every 2–3 months to keep the surface looking fresh.

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• Artificial marble

Artificial marble is designed to mimic the look of natural marble, but is more resistant to stains and scuffs, making it ideal for use in bathrooms, countertops, or areas requiring a luxurious look.

• Daily cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with clean water or mild soap to wipe the surface, then wipe again with a dry cloth to prevent water marks.
• Stain Management: If coffee, tea, or soap scum stains occur, wipe them off immediately. For stubborn stains, use a mild cleaner suitable for artificial marble.
• Things to avoid: Do not use toilet cleaners, hydrochloric acid, or wire brushes as they can damage the surface and cause discoloration.
• Additional tip: To maintain a shiny finish, use a marble polish every 3–6 months to help maintain its new look.

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• Crystal Composite

Composite crystal stone has a shiny, glassy surface that gives it a luxurious and modern feel. It is suitable for interior decoration, countertops, and dining tables, but it requires extra care as the surface is susceptible to stains.

• Daily cleaning: Use a warm, damp cloth to wipe away any stains that occur immediately, especially stains from dark-colored foods such as coffee, sauces, or soups.
• Treating stubborn stains: If the stain won't come off, use an ammonia-based cleaner. However, avoid strong acids or alkalines, as they can corrode the stone surface.
• Maintenance: It is recommended to polish at least once a month. Apply a water-based polish to the entire surface, let it dry, and then wipe it with a dry cloth until it shines. This will help maintain its beautiful shine for a long time.
• Things to avoid: Do not use a Scotch-Brite or wire brush as this will scratch the surface and cause it to lose its shine.

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• Terrazzo

Terrazzo is highly durable and is commonly used for floors or countertops that require durability and beautiful patterns. However, proper care will help the surface look good for a long time.

• Daily care: Sweep or vacuum to remove dust, then use a mop dampened with clean water or a neutral pH cleaning solution to wipe the surface.
• Stain Management: If oil or dark stains occur, wipe them off immediately. Do not leave them for a long time as they may penetrate the stone.
• Long-term maintenance: A sealer should be applied every 1–2 years to prevent stain penetration and enhance the shine. If the surface begins to dull, a sanding and re-coating can be used to restore it.
• Things to avoid: Avoid using strong acidic cleaners such as vinegar or bathroom cleaners, as they can corrode the surface and cause discoloration.

Tips for taking care of your stones to keep them looking new

Clean immediately if there are water stains or food spills. Clean daily by sweeping and wiping gently. Prevent scratches by placing pads under furniture. Check the condition regularly. If stubborn stains or cracks are found, call a professional. Do not save money in the wrong way, such as using cheap bathroom cleaners, as this may damage the stone surface.

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Tools and equipment used for rock care

• Microfiber cloth – reduces scratches from wiping
• Chamois cloth - is a soft cloth that creates a shiny surface on the stone.
• Specialized stone cleaner – gentle and non-abrasive
• Stone Polisher – Used to restore shine in cases where the stone has become dull.
• Sealer/Coating – Prevents stains and increases durability.
• Furniture mats – reduce pressure and prevent scratches

What are the differences between different stone care products? Which ones are suitable for which applications?

TENAX Bravo concentrated cleaning solution

• feature

It is a specialized cleaning solution. It does not have any coating or color-removing properties. It is used to remove stubborn stains such as oil, fat, wax, paint, tar, and other stains.

• Suitability for use 

Used for cleaning heavy stains and stubborn stains on marble, granite, and terrazzo. 

TENAX Proseal waterproofing and stain protection coating

• feature 

Coating to prevent water and oil penetration without darkening the stone color (no wet look), therefore suitable for stones that need to maintain their original color.

• Suitability for use 

Suitable for all types of stone (marble, granite and other natural stones) that have undergone various surface treatments (e.g. flame blasting, sand blasting, rough grinding) and require color-preserving stain protection.

TENAX Easywet Stone Color Remover (Wet Look)

• feature 

Visibly intensifies the color of the stone, creating a "wet look" effect or making the stone look wet/juicy all the time. Quick drying, easy to use.

• Suitability for use 

Suitable for marble and granite that require special enhancement of color and pattern intensity and prominence.

TENAX Ager, a stone surface coating that helps to bring out color and protect

• feature 

It has similar properties to Easywet, namely, it darkens the color of the stone, making it look more vibrant and shiny. It also has the properties of a protective coating on the stone surface and helps prevent stains at a basic level.

• Suitability for use 

Suitable for marble, granite and natural stones that require both darkening and surface protection. Can be used for both interior and exterior applications.

TENAX Cera Fluida Wax/Polishing

• feature 

It is a wax used to add shine to stone surfaces. It can increase the level of shine and is used to cover minor scratches that are not too deep.

• Suitability for use 

Ideal for polishing and restoring the glossiness of marble and granite surfaces with shallow scratches.

Caring for marble and all types of stone surfaces is an important matter that should not be overlooked. Stone is a material that adds value to homes and buildings. Investing a little in cleaning, care, and maintenance will help extend the life of the stone, keeping its beauty and luxury like new for a long time.

If you're looking for products to maintain the durability and beauty of your stone, you can get advice and more information from stone experts at @LINE Siamtak and Facebook Siamtak , or call 029841680.

Discover the idea of decorating the house, how different types of stones can fill your home through Instagram @ Siamtak Stone decorated from nature and endless possibilities.

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