Stone Information:

Marble, granite, limestone, travertine, sandstone and slate are the most common natural stones used today. Other less common stones are onyx, flagstone and soapstone.

Marble is a metamorphic rock that is best known for having veins. Although all marbles do not have them, all marbles will have calcite or dolomite. Ideal uses of marble are floors, furniture tops, bathrooms, foyers and hearths. Marble will react to acidic material and care programs are highly recommended to owners.

Granite is an igneous rock that is known for its hardness and dense crystalline grain. The primary mineral in granite is quartz. Ideal uses of granite are floors and kitchen countertops and sidewalks if flamed. Granite will not react to acids like calcium containing stones, but should still be protected from stains and soil damage.

Limestone is a sedimentary rock that is known to contain fossils. Uses include floors, countertops, and wall cladding.

Travertine is a limestone that is best known for having holes. Polished travertine will have its holes filled with Portland cement. Popular uses of travertine are floors and wall cladding.

Sandstone is a sedimentary rock and is best known for its sand-like appearance.

Slate is a metamorphic rock that has earthy tones and sheet-like characteristics. Its uses include pavers, fireplaces, floors and roofing.

Additional Information:

• Do consider a plan for the care of your stone
• Do educate all day cleaners, night cleaners and maids on care of stone
• Do dust mop floors often
• Do clean surfaces with mild detergent or stone cleaner
• Do thoroughly rinse and dry surface after cleaning
• Do blot up spills immediately to minimize damage to your stone
• Do use coasters under glasses
• Do use trivets or mats under cookware
• Do use place mats under all dinnerware
• Do use a rug or entry mat at every entryway to trap dirt.
• Do use a separate dust mop, mop, bucket and micro fiber cloth just for your stone

• Don’t use vinegar, citrus or any acid-containing cleaners on marble, limestone, travertine or onyx material.
• Don’t use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners.
• Don’t use abrasive cleaners
• Don’t use alkaline cleaners that are not made specifically for natural stone
• Don’t assume a granite cleaner can be used on marble, limestone, travertine or onyx