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Natural stone has been the premium building material of choice since the beginning of time. Stone countertops have been used for centuries in European homes and have proven to stand the test of time.
Today they are very popular in America and are comparable to other hard surfaces in price. Quarried from rock beds formed millions of years ago, natural stone is used in residential and commericial settings and comes from all parts of the world. Stone is a natural product and simple care and maintenance will keep it looking beautiful for years to come.
Available in a striking array of colors, granite's durability and longevity make it ideal for kitchen countertops and other heavily used surfaces, including table tops and floors. While some synthetic surfaces scratch easily and melt under hot cookware, granite resists heat. Granite is also the most bacteria-resistant kitchen surface, and it is not affected by citric acid, coffee, tea, alchohol or wine. It is nearly impossible to scratch, and with proper cleaning, will not stain under normal use.
Natural stone can be classified into two general categories according to its composition: siliceous stone and calcareous stone. Siliceous stone is composed mainly of silica or quartz-like particles. It tends to be very durable and relatively easy to clean and maintain. Some types of siliceous stones are granite, slate and sandstone. Types of calcareous stone include marble, travertine, limestone and onyx.
Granite is most commonly used in kitchens because of its durability. Marble and travertine are used mainly in bathrooms. Natural stone can be used on countertops, table tops, wall panels and floors. It is also used as an architechtural accent to add beauty to the face and base of a fireplace, thresholds or window sills.
Here are some Do's and Don'ts in stone care:
- Make sure the surface has been sealed properly before using it.
- Clean stone regularly with mild detergent (dish soap and water).
- Blot up spills immediately and rinse with water
- Do not use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners with acids on marble, limestone, travertine or onyx surfaces.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners.
Marino Tile & Marble Inc. relied on the Marble Institute of America ("Care and Cleaning for Natural Stone Surfaces" and "Beautify Your Home with Natural Stone") to verify the above information.
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