“Dispelling Common Myths About Stone Care: Facts vs. Fiction”
When it comes to caring for natural stone surfaces, misinformation can lead to costly mistakes. As specialists in the field, Stone Guys NY is here to debunk some of the most common myths about stone care, ensuring that your marble, granite, limestone, or quartz remains as stunning as the day it was installed.
Myth 1: Vinegar is a Great Natural Cleaner for All Stone Surfaces
Debunked: Vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic substances are often touted as natural cleaning solutions. However, when it comes to most natural stone surfaces, especially marble and limestone, acidic cleaners can cause etching and dull the finish. Always use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for stone.
Myth 2: All Stone Surfaces are Indestructible
Debunked: While stones like granite are indeed durable, they are not indestructible. They can chip, stain, or crack if mistreated. It’s essential to handle stone surfaces with care and perform regular maintenance.
Myth 3: A Sealed Stone is Stain-Proof
Debunked: Sealers provide a protective barrier that gives you more time to clean up spills, but they’re not foolproof. Sealed stone can still stain, especially if spills are left unattended for an extended period.
Myth 4: Glass Cleaners are Safe for Stone
Debunked: Many glass cleaners contain ammonia or other chemicals that can dull the surface of stone over time. It’s best to avoid them in favor of cleaners meant for stone care.
Myth 5: Stone Can be Cleaned with Any Soap or Detergent
Debunked: Regular soaps and detergents can leave a film and potentially damage the stone surface. Specific stone soaps that are pH-neutral are the safest bet for cleaning stone surfaces.
Myth 6: Granite Doesn’t Need Sealing
Debunked: Granite is often celebrated for its sturdiness, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need a sealant. Sealing granite helps protect it from stains and should be part of regular maintenance.
Myth 7: New Stone Doesn’t Require Immediate Care
Debunked: New stone surfaces should be sealed and cared for from the start to prevent early damage and maintain their appearance.
Myth 8: Polishing and Sealing are the Same
Debunked: Polishing a stone involves grinding and buffing the surface to achieve a shiny finish, while sealing involves applying a protective sealant. They are two distinct processes in stone care.
Myth 9: Professional Stone Services are Unnecessary
Debunked: While regular home maintenance is important, professional stone care services like those offered by Stone Guys NY have the expertise, equipment, and high-quality products to handle deep cleaning, repair, and restoration that go beyond everyday care.
Conclusion:
Caring for stone surfaces requires specific knowledge and techniques. By steering clear of these myths, you can ensure that your stone surfaces remain beautiful and durable for years to come. Remember, when in doubt, consulting with professionals at Stone Guys NY can save you from the pitfalls of improper stone care.