Stone is a classic and beautiful flooring choice, but that does not mean it is maintenance-free. While stone floors are known for their durability, there are many common misconceptions about how strong they are and how they should be cared for.
Believing these stone flooring myths can lead to avoidable damage and costly mistakes.
Understanding the truth behind them can help you protect your floors, extend their life, and know when it is best to call a professional stone restoration service.
Stone Is Impossible to Damage
It’s only natural to equate stone with strong because it is! But that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to damage stone floors. For example, sliding heavy appliances across the top can lead to scratches, or a sudden drop of something heavy can cause cracks.
One way to mitigate this risk can be to add cushions, like cooking mats, in high traffic areas that can absorb any accidental drops. Finally, extreme heat can also cause natural stone to break, so anyone working with hot liquids in the kitchen on the stone floors should be extra careful.
Stone is Stain-Free
It comes as a surprise to some to learn that stone is actually a porous material, meaning it has small openings where liquids can penetrate the surface. In high use areas like the kitchen or bathrooms, this porous property makes your stone floors more prone to both staining and overall water damage.
Don’t make the mistake of many homeowners and leave dark substances like coffee or wine to sit too long! Once the stain has truly set in, it could take professional restoration or even replacement to correct.
All DIY Cleaners are Safe
The internet is fraught with claims that you can make safe and effective cleaners from ingredients you usually have in your home, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or baking soda. And while this might be true for some surfaces, the stone in your home isn’t the place to test it! As mentioned, stone is not impervious to damage.
Homemade cleaners tend to be very acidic, which can deteriorate the stone itself, seal, or grout. This damage is commonly known as etching, and it’s something seen regularly.
Further, many homeowners will use abrasive tools such as metal brushes or sponges, which further erodes the integrity of the stone floors. This compounded damage eventually leads to a phone call for professional restoration services.
All Sealants are the Same
Some homeowners opt to skip the professional restoration services and use at-home products when it’s time to reseal. But store-bought sealants simply aren’t the same as professional grade.
For starters, professional grade products are going to provide protection much longer than the typical over-the-counter product, meaning more time and less worry between coats. Additionally, DIY sealant application leaves room for error, such as missed spots or too thin layers that aren’t noticed until the damage is already done.
Finally, professionals have the tools needed to properly clean the stone prior to sealing. Unfortunately, many homeowners think they’ve cleaned it appropriately, only to lock in dirt and moisture beneath the new layer of sealant.
Stone Restoration Services are a Headache
Not only are stone restoration services possible in more cases that you might think, it’s also a much easier process than many homeowners are anticipating. For starters, with today’s tools (and regulations) a majority of stonework is completed “wet,” meaning there’s no risk of dust infiltrating your entire home. And depending on the size of the job, professionals can be in and out faster than it could take you to do everything yourself!
Stone Floor Recap
A lot of misinformation circulates about how to care for stone floors. But by busting these myths, you can see that stone floors are a great investment that can last a lifetime with just a little maintenance and proper care. If you’re ready to install new stone or looking into professional restoration services, contact a stone floor restoration company today.
Professional Stone Floor Restoration in the Brighton Area
No matter what condition your stone, tile, or countertops are in, Restore-A-Floor is ready to help. We provide professional cleaning, sealing, polishing, and repair services for a wide range of stone and tile surfaces.
Our Brighton area floor restoration team delivers impressive results that can renew the look and life of your floors and surfaces. If your stone or tile needs expert attention, contact Restore-A-Floor today and request your free estimate online.