Which types of flooring surfaces are the easiest to take care of? The answers can vary a lot depending on what is meant by a surface being easy to take care of.
For example, natural stone is broadly a very hard-wearing and long-lasting material that provides a beautiful and luxurious look for many homes and offices, but at the same time, it is also vulnerable to blemishes, chips and cosmetic damage that could need restoration work over time.
This is particularly true for porous stone surfaces such as marble, onyx or limestone, and there are a few simple mistakes that can cause noticeable marks and damage.
Using Acidic Cleaners
Most stones do not react well to acidic cleaning solutions such as those containing vinegar or lemon juice, and it can cause damage and make any existing damage even worse.
Many grout, tiles and bathroom cleaners contain acid as well, so it is essential to avoid using a lot of typical cleaning solutions as well.
In general, if your cleaning product does not specifically say it works on natural stone, assume it will damage it.
Using Abrasive Cleaning Tools
Cleaning the dust from a stone floor is an important part of regular maintenance, and it never hurts to take a dust mop or even a vacuum cleaner to your stone floor.
However, if your vacuum cleaner is old or has been used a lot, be careful with it as the wheels and attachments can potentially scratch the surface of the stone.
Similarly, avoid using wire wool, stiff brushes or abrasive cleaning solutions for the same reasons; they will often cause surface scratches that can be difficult to remove without professional intervention.
Applying The Wrong Sealant
Sealing the stone is an essential part of long-term care of the stone, but make sure you choose the right one for the type of stone you have, follow the instructions for application and use multiple coats as required for certain surfaces made from porous stone.