CARE & MAINTENANCE
NATURAL STONE
SOAPSTONE is a natural stone that requires a little different care. The environmentally conscious appreciate soapstone as a green building material. It's completely chemical-free and 100 percent recyclable. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth at least once a week to remove dust and dirt or if needed a damp cloth. If you are considering soapstone, be aware it is a soft stone that can scratch and will show wear and tear if you like a worn look. But, what soapstone lacks in hardness, it makes up in density. Some of the advantages include: nonporous, nonabsorbent, anti-bacterial, heat resistant and for the most part, soapstone is a stain-resistant material. Soapstone cannot be cleaned like other surfaces. Occasionally, however, something may seep through the surface and leave a dark stain. Oil and grease can discolor new soapstone, so wipe up spills promptly and, if necessary, rub a bit of acetone (nail polish remover will suffice) on an oil stain to lighten it. Once your soapstone countertop reaches its full patina, oil discoloration won’t be a problem. Soapstone darkens over time, through a natural process similar to oxidation, so it will eventually develop a distinct patina. Enhance your counter’s natural darkening progression by applying mineral oil to the surface every week or two and rubbing it in thoroughly. The mineral oil treatment will help make the patina more uniform. It usually takes seven to nine months for the countertop to reach its full patina. Once the patina is fully developed, apply mineral oil if the countertop begins to look dry to restore luster and sheen. Once or twice a year is usually sufficient. Please note, while ECC cannot warranty any natural stone, we will stand behind our craftsmanship.
NATURAL stone can last a lifetime if properly maintained and cared for. Knowing how to clean your stone and taking proactive precautions will make a huge difference in the long-lasting appearance of your natural stone. Porous by nature, your stone will need to be sealed regularly. This is a simple process that any homeowner can do on their own. It is suggested to seal your countertops once a year. More porous stone such as marble should be sealed twice a year. Always clean spills up immediately by blotting and not wiping to avoid spreading the spill. Wash the area with a mild soap and rinse thoroughly. Although most stone products can withstand heat, it is always advisable to use trivets for hot pans on a counter as well as coasters for glasses. It is best to use a neutral cleaner, stone soap or mild dishwashing detergent that is a water based for everyday cleaning. Avoid abrasive pads or creams as they may scratch the stone’s surface. Natural stones such as slate, granite, soapstone and sandstone are typically resistant to acids, but acidic cleaners are still not recommended as some of these stones may have a mineral in them that can be damaged by acidic solutions. Stones such as marble, limestone, travertine and onyx can etch if exposed to anything acidic. Often mistaken as watermarks or stains, etching is a chemical reaction from exposure to liquid acids that causes dulling of the surface. Common household cleaning products, fruit and acidic juices, vinegar, wine, coffee, soda, bleach, and ammonia can cause etching. Honed, brushed, and leathered finishes are becoming more popular and have a matte finished look. This might make etching less noticeable but won't stop it from happening. Please note, while ECC cannot warranty any natural stone, we will stand behind our craftsmanship.
Recommended Sealers & Cleaners Include:
Stone Essentials | Stain-Proof | Bullet Proof |
Recommended Stain Removers:
ENGINEERED STONE
PORCELAIN: This material is gaining momentum in design. Additional care and maintenance information coming soon.
QUARTZ: In general, quartz counters are pretty low maintenance. In fact, some would say they’re maintenance-free. However, that doesn’t mean you can neglect them completely. Generally, warm, soapy water takes care of cleaning. If you spill something, clean it up as soon as you can. Quartz countertops are stain resistant but not stain proof. This means they can develop stains, especially if the spill is very acidic or left to linger. Generally you should always use a cutting board when cutting on a surface regardless of material choice. Avoid cutting directly on the surface without a cutting board. Although very hard, the surface can be scratched if enough downward force is asserted. If you find oil stains on your counter, use a cleanser with a degreasing agent that is labelled as safe for use on quartz. Lastly, while quartz is chip-resistant is it not chip-proof. If you drop something on a corner or it hits the countertop at the right angle, quartz can be chipped. There are ways to repair your quartz countertops if this does occur. Please note, while ECC does not warranty quartz, each brand will have their own manufacturers warranty’s and any defects will need to be filed by the customer directly with the manufacturer. ECC will however, always stand behind our craftsmanship.
