To clean and protect stone surfaces, only use products that are designed for application on stone surfaces and have instructions for use on the packaging.
In order to preserve the properties and prolong the durability of the stone, we recommend strictly following the manufacturer’s instructions or engaging a professionally qualified contractor.
Limestone is acid-sensitive, so acid and strong alkalis treatments are not allowed on limestone and are discouraged on granite surfaces. Wine and fruit juices should also be removed immediately from limestone surfaces, even those already protected.
Limestone and marble surfaces, especially polished and finely ground surfaces, should not be mechanically cleaned with abrasive tools.
Warning against mechanical damage
All stone surfaces (e.g. floor and wall cladding, solid stairs, etc.) are resistant to normal use, such as walking, use of prams and wheelchairs, occasional deliveries by cars.
Activities that could damage the surface of the stone flooring and products are not permitted on stone surfaces, for example:
- pulling trolleys with metal wheels on the stone pavement,
- the use of mechanical cleaning nets in combination with acidic or other aggressive chemicals,the use and driving of heavy goods vehicles over pedestrian areas,
- transport over stone surfaces with vehicles that cause scratching (transport trolleys with metal wheels, skateboards, scooters, etc.),
- scouring surfaces with metal or other hard objects,
- driving vehicles that leave traces of rubber, plastic, silicones, etc. over stone surfaces
- the use of crystallised de-icing salt
- the use of chemicals and cleaning agents which, by dissolving, cause damage to the final stone surface.
Prior to the application of the protection, the surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned with suitable neutral and certified stone cleaners.
Cleaning removes mists of cement, oil, grease, as well as paint and plaster residues.
A suitable long-lasting, impermeable surface protectant should then be applied to the cleaned and dry surface to protect the surface from dirt and aggressive substances and to facilitate further surface care.
We also recommend anti-graffiti protection to protect stone cladding on walls and façades. In exposed external areas, we recommend cleaning the stone surfaces and applying a hydrophobic impregnation to prevent the negative effects of crystallisation, carbonation, water ingress and to prevent mould and algae formation.
The protective agent also prevents the negative effects of sodium chloride (NaCl), due to salting of surfaces in winter in order to minimize the risk of slipping.
