Care and Preservation Guide for Natural Stone
Professional maintenance standards to protect your investment for years to come
New England Granite & Marble
2350 SW Gtwy Pl Suite 200, Stuart, FL 34997
Care and Preservation Guide for Natural Stone
To ensure your stone surfaces remain a centerpiece of your home for years to come, please follow these professional maintenance standards:
- Protective Barriers: Always utilize coasters under glassware—especially those containing citrus or alcohol—and place trivets or mats under hot cookware.
- Floor Maintenance: For stone flooring, use a clean, non-treated dry dust mop regularly. Sand and grit act as abrasives and can cause permanent scratching.
- Entryway Care: Place slip-resistant mats or rugs inside and outside entrances to capture dirt before it reaches your stone. Ensure vacuum cleaner attachments are free of worn metal or plastic parts that could mar the surface.
- Spill Management: If a spill occurs, blot it immediately with a paper towel; do not wipe, as this spreads the liquid. Flush the area with water and a mild stone soap, then dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- Cleaning Products: Only use neutral cleaners specifically formulated for stone. Avoid products containing lemon, vinegar, or other acids, as they will etch calcareous stones like marble. Stay away from scouring powders or abrasive creams.
Marble Disclosure & Expectations
Marble is a luxury natural stone celebrated for its unique veining and classic aesthetic. It is formed through the recrystallization of limestone under intense heat and pressure, which introduces varied mineral movements and colors.
Key Marble Characteristics
Understanding marble's natural properties helps ensure proper care and realistic expectations for your investment.
Geological Characteristics
Marble is naturally porous and contains inherent veins, fissures, and microscopic cracks. These are not defects but natural traits that may lead to variations in tone, etching, or minor chipping.
Inspection Window
We require that all countertops be thoroughly inspected for damage within 24 hours of the completed installation.
Sealing Protocol
We apply an initial seal during fabrication. However, since construction adhesives and chemicals can compromise this barrier, we recommend resealing your marble every 6 to 18 months. Note that sealing may slightly deepen the stone's color.
Seams and Tolerances
Due to the lighter, porous nature of marble, seams may be more visible. Minor flaking during the cutting process is common, and seams up to 1/8" are considered within standard industry tolerances.
Kitchen Usage
Marble is not generally recommended for high-traffic kitchens as it is susceptible to damage over time. For those who prefer the marble look in a kitchen, we strongly suggest a honed surface rather than a polished one, as it disguises scratches and etching more effectively.
Quartzite Disclosure & Expectations
Quartzite is a high-end natural stone valued for its durability and striking visual depth. While natural stone varies, quartzite is primarily formed from the recrystallization of sandstone rather than limestone.
Quartzite Properties
Quartzite offers exceptional beauty with unique characteristics that require specific care and maintenance considerations.
Natural Variations
Like all natural products, quartzite features unique inconsistencies in color, density, and porosity. New England Granite & Marble is not responsible for these natural occurrences, including staining or scratching.
Moisture Retention
During the fabrication process, quartzite can trap moisture. It may take several days for this to evaporate completely; until dry, light-colored slabs may appear temporarily darker.
Sealing and Care
To maintain the integrity of the surface, we recommend a resealing schedule of every 6 to 18 months.
Seams
Joins in quartzite may be visible due to the stone's light tones. Adhesives may cause a slight darkening at the seam edge, and seams up to 1/8" are considered industry standard.
Warranty
Because no two slabs are geologically identical, there is no formal warranty on the wearability or density of natural quartzite.
Care Guide Inquiries
Phone: (772) 283-8667
Email: frontdesk@newenglandgranite.net
Last updated: 2026