PRODUCT SURFACE
We seal all of our natural stone products at the factory to protect the
finish and help prevent stains. However, natural stone is a porous
surface so stains may still develop if spills are not removed
immediately. To further protect the grout joints and the surfaces it is
strongly recommended that all new cast stone products be resealed after
installation.
SELECTING SEALERS
Always use a high quality sealer that can be purchased from local retail
tile and stone stores (you can use one of these brands : Techniseal or Thompson's WaterSeal)
. It is recommended that you test any new sealer on an inconspicuous
spot to ensure that you are satisfied with the outcome before sealing
the entire surface area. When applying a sealer make sure that all
surfaces are clean and dry and then carefully follow the instructions
provided on the product packaging.
CLEANING
Cast stone should be cleaned regularly to avoid dust and dirt build-up.
You can easily clean the surface with just warm water and a clean white
towel. If the cast stone product surface has become soiled, you may use a
solution of 1 part mild detergent, such as 409, with 3 parts warm
water. Thoroughly rinse the entire area with clean warm water to remove
any detergent residue. If you require a stronger cleanser, retail home
stores or stone and tile stores sell general purpose cast stone
cleaners. Do not use products containing acids or alkaline as they may
damage the surface of the stone.
HANDLING SPILLS
A spill should be cleaned up immediately by carefully blotting the spill
with a paper towel or clean white rag. Do not “wipe” a spill as this
may force a potential stain deeper into the surface of the stone. A
neutral cleanser and cold water can then be used to clean the surface. A
persistent stain may be treated with a chemical poultice.How to best prevent common stains
CLEANERS
Do not use acidic or alkaline based products when cleaning cast stone
products as this may etch the surface. It is best to use a solution of
warm water and mild detergent and a clean white cloth.
PLANTS
Even a sealed stone surface can get water damage so it is best not to place plants directly onto the stone.
CANDLES
It is very difficult to remove wax from the surface of cast stone so it
is best to have a plate or other container under your candles to catch
any dripping wax.
SMOKE
Smoke can stain a cast stone surface so be careful with your fireplace ventilation system.
FOOD
Foods containing oils can stain cast stone so it is best to avoid placing food anywhere near the stone surface.
BEVERAGES
Although liquid spills can generally be cleaned up without damage if
caught early and blotted dry, it is best to prevent accidental spills by
not placing cups or glasses containing liquid near stone surfaces.
BURNT LOGS/SPARKS
You should exercise caution when pushing burning logs around in a wood
burning fireplace as sparks can etch the surface of the stone when they
land. Also, when cleaning the inside of your fireplace, always cover the
stone surface to avoid unsightly soot stains.
Conditions of Sale for Stone Products
All cast stone, honed & polished products have a degree of expected
variation in shade, texture and veining. These characteristic markings
are all part of the stone and are to be expected.
