2024-25_NTCA_Reference_Manual_dig_dwnld

Maintaining Polished Stone Countertops and Bars

COUNTERTOPS AND BARS Countertops and bars pose a different set of circumstances for maintaining polished stone surfaces. Acids, alcohol, juices, and even water may stain, leave marks, or etch polished calcareous stone finishes. They also damage most wax finishes. When wet, waxed finishes on polished stone bars and countertops may become so slippery that glasses and other items tend to slide and often fall off the edges. Furniture polishes may perform better than waxes in some instances, but since they are not formulated for this purposed, the challenge of testing to determine suitability resides with the user. Siliceous stone varieties, such as granite or serpentine, are generally less problematic when used for countertops and bars. These stones have greater chemical and abrasion resistance, and as such, tend to be more durable than calcareous stones (e.g.: marble, limestone, travertine) and less likely to stain and become etched. Use of an impregnator or penetrating sealer is recommended.

Maintaining Polished Stone Walls and Base Molding

WALLS Care of polished stone walls and base molding varies, depending on the severity of use in areas where they are located. Since food or drink spills are not likely to be encountered in wall applications, impregnators or penetrating sealers are generally not required. An exception to this would be wall surfaces where frequent hand or hair contact is expected, such as near elevator call buttons or walls behind benches, where skin oils will penetrate the stone surface and create staining issues.

On shower walls, use a squeegee to minimize soap scum. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a specialty stone cleaner recommended for this purpose.

Photo courtesy of Miracle Sealants Company

NTCA Reference Manual | 2024 / 2025

Chapter 6 | Natural Stone Installations

157