Use and Care Guide

Fairmont Beach FM07 tile shown
TILE CARE & MAINTENANCE PAGE 4 OF 6
TILE CARE &
MAINTENANCE
NATURAL STONE NEW INSTALLATIONS continued)
Sealing
A premium natural look penetrating/impregnating sealer is the
normal choice on polished or honed marble, limestone, granite, or
where the natural color of a slate is desired. A stone enhancer sealer
is often used on tumbled, antique stones or on slate where a darker,
enriched or highlighted character is desired. When choosing either
one of these types of sealers, make sure the brand you have chosen is
formulated to provide maximum stain protection for stone products.
Stone products should be tested periodically per manufacturer’s
instructions to insure that the sealer is working eectively.
Penetrating/impregnating stone sealers are a no-sheen, natural look
sealer that can be water-based or solvent-based, good for interior
and exterior applications. Most quality sealers of this type are rated
to protect the stone for several years. Stone enhancer sealers are
also a no-sheen, penetrating/impregnating sealer that is formulated
to darken, enrich and highlight the natural color and beauty of stone
products. They will rejuvenate and improve the appearance of worn
and weathered stone.
Always test loose pieces of stone to ensure desired eect with
enhancing sealers. However, they will also darken the color of grout
joints. They are, generally, suitable for interior and exterior use,
and rated to protect the stone for several years. Always reference
manufacturer’s literature for specific information on the duration
of the sealer’s protection and make sure that the sealer is applied in
strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Finishing
A stone floor finish should be applied to a polished Natural Stone
floor only. This type of product will help enhance the shine and
provide a protective coating for “soft” or polished marbles.
Verify the finish is a wax-type finish designed to add luster and
enhance the beauty of sealed and polished Natural Stone only.
A topical finish may change the appearance and performance of
your stone, so always test a small area first. Application of topical
sealer or wax should never be done as an attempt to add a shine to
a honed, scratched or non-polished stone product. This will only
create maintenance and/or a slip resistance problem.
MANUFACTURED STONE
Routine Care
Care should be taken to avoid smearing mortar on the surface of
the veneers. Accidental smears should be removed using a dry
whiskbroom only after mortar has dried completely. Never use a
wet brush or wire brush. Do not power-wash, sandblast, use acid or
acid-based products. Dirt or other materials may be removed with
a strong solution of granulated soap or detergent and water with a
bristle brush. Do not use a wire brush, as it will cause damage to the
surface. Rinse immediately with fresh water. Regular maintenance
only requires rinsing the surface with water occasionally
to remove dirt.
Sealing
Seal with a breathable, non-film forming masonry sealer, to prevent
staining from rusty downspouts, splattered mud, etc. Sealing is
strongly recommended for dry-stacked applications and/or for
harsh environments.