STAIN REMOVAL FOR STONE, CONCRETE, AND OTHER POROUS SURFACES
Cleaning surfaces with stains especially on natural stones is never fun. One can easily turn the situation into a disaster if incorrect methods and products are applied. While there are tons of DIY solutions available, it is essential that you know how and where to use these to avoid or lessen the damages. Here are some of the general first step cleaning actions in most types of stains:
Oil-Based Stains
These stains usually occur in areas where grease, cooking oil, tar, and cosmetics are present such as kitchen countertops and vanities which normally darkens the stone surface. These should be chemically dissolved so the source of the stain can be rinsed away. The most common approach to removing it is by cleaning with an approved stone cleaning detergent or a pH neutral product before using Lithofin Oil-Ex.
Biological Stains
Mildew, Algae, Lichens, Moss, and Fungi can potentially create Biological stains which can be removed using a suitable bleaching process with Hydrogen Peroxide as the most commonly used solution However this may etch sensitive surfaces like marble, limestone and travertine. Therefore it is best to engage a stone care professional when having to manage these type of stains unless used over granite, quartzite and all other not calcium containing materials.
Efflorescence
This type of stain is the usual white powder that is seen on natural stone surfaces that is caused by water carrying mineral salts that evaporated from below the surface of natural stone. In cases where the installation maybe new and efflorescence is light, dust mopping or vacuuming the powder will work. These may need to be done several times and if it has become hardened deposits, it will be necessary to use a suitable cleaning product to break it down. It will be best to call a stone care professional to remove these deposits for you.
Etch Marks
Etch marks are caused by acids left on the surface of the natural stone. These cannot be cleaned off as the physical properties of the surface becomes altered when marble, limestone and travertine is in question. If etch marks are light on a polished surface, perhaps by putting water on the surface and sprinkling it with a suitable marble polishing powder where it is then rubbed into the stone with a damp cloth or by a buffing pad with a low-speed power polishing machine may show some improvements. If there is no improvement, then it will be best to locate a professional stone restorer. However if the surface is of honed finished, do not attempt with polishing powders.
Scratches and Nicks
Surfaces with any kind of scratches will need the attention of a natural stone expert. The surface will need to be ground off with suitable abrasives, etc... Stone Doctor Australia takes pride with decades of experience in handling natural stone restoration and maintenance. Best to contact our team @ 03-9429 1223 to obtain a quote for your restorative needs.
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