KLD Guide

Stone Care

Routine Care

  • Daily Cleaning

    When caring for natural stone countertops look for neutral cleaning products that are specifically designed to clean stone. Do not use just any cleaning product, as they may contain acids that will damage the stone over time. Neutral cleaning products have beneficial ingredients that will not damage the stones seals and coatings. Apply solution and allow it to sit per the manufacturer's instructions. Then, work it in using a sponge or soft-bristled brush before removing with a clean sponge and buffing dry. As always, refer to the product instructions based on the stone cleaner solution you choose.

  • Avoiding Acid

    Stone reacts noticeably to acid. For mild acid exposure, an etching of the stone could result. This etching is not a stain that cannot be removed but must be refinished in order to restore the glossy surface once again. For places in your home with frequent acid exposure, such as countertops, it’s important to select a stone that works well in these conditions to avoid stone etching and wear. For this reason, marble and limestone are popular choices.

Extensive Cleaning

  • Deep Cleaning

    For difficult grease, wax, or dirt removal, you can deep clean your stone with a concentrated stone cleaning solution. When working with the solution, apply with a sponge and allow it to stand for the specified amount of time. Then, use a clean sponge to remove the dirty solution ensuring you replace the bucket with new solution roughly every 100 square feet to ensure dirty water isn’t being used. Dry the surface well when finished.

  • Stone Stain Removal

    A mixture of non-acidic, absorbing clay powder can be used to clean and remove stains on polished and unpolished stone or grout when made into a poultice. Always use a solution specific to the needs of your stone, and follow manufacturer instructions. Always clean up spills as quickly as possible to avoid staining. If the stain is deep, using a poultice may dull the shine of the polished stone upon removal of the stain. If this happens, you can use a stone polish to bring the shine back once again.

Routine Care

  • Stone Sealing

    To provide maximum stain protection, we recommend sealing your natural stone. The sealer you select is important and should be of high quality. Check with your stone fabricator to determine how they seal the stone. It’s customary to reseal your stone every couple of years based on your stones manufacturer's recommendations.

  • Sealing Products

    As far as types of sealing products go, there are two categories: Stone enhancers and penetrating/impregnating sealers. Both are no-sheen sealers; however, the stone enhancer is meant to highlight the natural color of the stone through darkening and enriching, and rejuvenating the stone to improve the appearance of wear and tear. Stone enhancers also protect the stone for many years and are used for both indoor and outdoor stone. There are also penetrating/impregnating sealers, a standard choice for honed or polished natural stone countertops. It provides a no-sheen, natural look. In either case, apply with care following the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines.