Natural stone is a beautiful investment which will last for years to come. Simple care and maintenance of your stone will keep it looking its best. In addition to the care information on this site, Bertini also provides cleaning and care products which are available at our showroom location. See our map and directions for locating our showroom.


Tips on Caring for your Natural Stone
Stone’s durability has been tested throughout the ages—in homes, commercial buildings, cathedrals, and even pyramids. Use the following care tips to ensure that your stone will not only last, but will stay beautiful as well.

Sealants
Many stones need or benefit from a protective sealant. Your fabricator may apply the correct sealant based on the type of stone you choose and how it will be used after installation.

Floor Care
Keep a natural stone floor well swept using a dry, non-treated dust mop. Dust and dirt carried inside on people’s shoes acts as an abrasive on stone floors. Putting mats or area rugs inside and outside doorways will help catch dirt from outside.

To clean, use a sponge mop that is slightly dampened and change the rinse water frequently. Do not use a string mop that can flood the stone with dirty water.

When mopping, use a recommended pH neutral cleanser. Never use an acidic cleanser (like vinegar or lemon) or harsh chemical/abrasive cleanser.

Wipe up wet spills immediately, especially acidic liquids like citrus juice, alcohol or soda. Put protective felt pads under the feet of furniture, especially metal furniture. Keep plants up off the floor, as condensation under a plant saucer can create damaging rings.

Table and Countertop Care
Wipe up wet spills immediately, especially acidic liquids like citrus juice, alcohol or soda. Use coasters under drinking glasses.

Use recommended cleaning products that are pH neutral. Never wipe your table or countertop with an acidic cleanser (like vinegar or lemon) or harsh chemical/abrasive cleanser. Also, use soft cloths to wipe the surface instead of an abrasive pad (such as steel wool) that might scratch it.

Dust tabletops with a dry clean cloth. Never use an oily or waxy polish on your dust cloth. Waxes can make some natural stone turn yellow over time.
Many types of natural stone can be damaged if a hot or metal dish is placed directly on top of it. Use trivets and placemats under dishes.

Shower and Bathtub Care
Use a squeegee after showering or bathing to help minimize soap scum buildup. Use only a recommended pH neutral cleansing product. Never use a harsh chemical/abrasive cleanser or abrasive cleaning pad (like steel wool) on natural stone—it will eventually scratch and dull the surface.



For more information, visit the Marble Institute of America's page about caring and cleaning marble.


Bertini Marble & Tile has cleaning and care supplies available at our showroom location.

3355 SE Crossroads Drive
Grimes, Iowa 50111 (515).222.9600


Daily Cleaning:

* Use MARBARMIST ready to use spray.
* Spray a fine mist onto the stone surface.
* Let set for ten seconds.
* Wipe off the surface with a soft clean cloth.
* Rinsing is not required.



Disinfectant Cleaning:

* Counteriffic is ready-to-use spray.
* Spray a fine mist onto the stone surface.
* Let it set for minimum of 5-10 minutes to eliminate bacteria and germs.
* Wipe off the surface with a damp clean cloth.
* If streaks develop, spray MARBADAN PLUS again and immediately wipe off.


Sealing:

* Use Stone Shield 611.
* Clean counters so they are free of debris, dust, oil, grease, mildew, etc.
* Ensure surface is completely dry.
* Cover entire surface of stone with stone shield.
* Allow sealer to sit 15-20 minutes.
* Use a soft, clean rag to wipe excess sealer from the surface.