Maintaining the Solid
Granite and Marble Slab in Your Toronto Home
Homeowners that install solid granite and marble slab
Toronto in their Toronto homes know the importance of maintaining and caring
for their stone surfaces. The addition of natural stone in any homebuilding or
renovation project can be a significant investment. Many first time homebuyers
do not have any experience with the different types of natural stone and may be
considering natural stone surfaces for their natural beauty and elegance.
However, homeowners choosing natural stone countertops or floors for their home
need to be aware of how to take care of their investment. Natural stone
surfaces can bring a luxurious element to any living space; however, they can
also be quite porous. This means that they are susceptible to absorbing liquids
and can be affected by acidic agents, such as fruits, beverages, alcohols and
household cleaning products. In order for homeowners to properly care for their
surfaces, they must learn more about their natural stone.
Marble & Granite – Maintenance and Care
While marble makes for a beautiful surface or countertop, it can be easily
scratched, stained or chipped. To help prevent staining and scratching, most
natural stone surfaces should be coated with protective sealers and resealed
regularly, depending on how frequently you use your surface. Marble is much
softer than granite, making wear-and-tear more visible. Heat can also damage
your marble countertop. Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on your
countertop or surface to avoid any physical damage.
While more durable than marble, granite is also susceptible
to scratches and stains. Though more resistant to heat, it is still recommended
to use heat pads rather than placing very hot items directly on your granite
countertop. A well-sealed granite countertop is relatively impervious to
bacteria. Hot water and mild dish soap will be more than adequate for daily
sanitizing. Heat pads and coasters are other great ways of protecting your
natural stone surfaces.
The main difference between the maintenance and care requirements of solid granite
and marble slab Toronto is the negative effect that acidic solutions have on
marble surfaces. Items commonly found in your kitchen can do a great deal of
harm to your marble surfaces. Acidic foods, beverages, alcohols and household
cleaning products can scratch or stain your surface if not taken care of
properly. It is recommended that all spills be blotted immediately. To clean
your countertop, it is recommended to first remove the loose debris, blot any
spills before they spread and flush the area with plain water and a mild soap.
After rinsing several times, dry the area with a soft cloth and repeat as
necessary. Common household cleaning solutions such as vinegar and other
cleaners can actually damage your surfaces.
When considering granite and marble slab surfaces as a part of your Toronto
home, you owe it to yourself to make your way out to one of the marvellous
showrooms in the area. Visiting a marble and granite showroom gives homeowners
the ability to get a better idea of what they are purchasing and how it will
look in their home. Feel more comfortable about investing in solid granite and
marble slab Toronto as part of your home and visit a showroom near you.