Natural stone can provide warmth, character, and an everlasting look to floors, walls, patios, and other surfaces. Lots of people like using limestone and travertine for their natural variation or interesting texture. But as with all surfaces that are used frequently, they can stain, scratch, and otherwise become dull or show signs of wear over time.
Fortunately, most common stone issues can be addressed and resolved through proper cleaning and restoration methods.
Stains and Discoloration
Natural stone is one of the most obvious issues that suffer from staining. While all stones can show signs of marking, porous stones like limestone and travertine are most susceptible to them with food, drinks, dirt, oil and other substances.
The first step is to determine the cause of the stain. If a wrong type of household cleaner is used, then it can often make the issue worse or damage the surface finish. For regular maintenance, a pH-neutral stone cleaner is typically the better option.
If the stains are more difficult to remove, professional cleaning might be an option. A limestone cleaning specialist in Sydney can make a determination as to the most appropriate limestone cleaning method without causing any unnecessary damage to the stone surface.
The surface may become scratched or worn with use.
Over time, high traffic areas can become their own "new look. These fine scratches, scuff marks and dull areas can be more noticeable if people are in there frequently or if they are moving furniture.
Petrifying holes and pits can also be found in travertine. The stone has these features, but may require attention if damaged or deteriorated. Depending on the condition, restoration can include cleaning, hone or polish some imperfections, or filling.
Before attempting aggressive DIY solutions it is better to consider the overall surface condition before determining how to deal with individual marks.
Etching and Dull Patches
Some natural stone materials may have adverse reactions to acids. Acidic cleaners (citrus juice, vinegar), can dull or lighten the look of calcium-based stones like limestone and travertine.
Not all these marks are typical stains on the surface. In a few instances, the surface has been altered. Simply applying more cleaner may not remove the problem.
Professional stone restoration can help determine whether the surface needs honing or polishing to restore a more consistent appearance. Depending on the type and finish of the stone a suitable stone polish may be used as part of the restoration work.
These areas are prone to cracking, chipping and deterioration.
Small chips and cracks should NOT be overlooked. Certain flaws can be cosmetic, whereas other flaws can be evidence that a section of stone needs repair.
If the homeowner has a damaged travertine, a service for performing home repairs can be able to assess the damage and suggest one method of repair. The appropriate treatment will vary based on the damage size, location and type.
To keep these beautiful stones looking their best, follow these general care tips:
It's typically more convenient to prevent major damage than to repair it. Remove dirt and grit regularly, clean up spills quickly, and don't use cleaning agents that are acidic or abrasive, unless they are recommended for this particular stone.
Remember, it's not always the same as ceramic tile or other hard surfaces either, and that's why limestone and travertine repair in Sydney should not be treated the same. They are porous and calcium-based and need careful handling.
If you need to hire professional help, you will find Sydney Stone Polishing to be a one to consider for natural stone cleaning and restoration.
Limestone and travertine surfaces can have a wonderful look for many years if they are properly maintained and treated for stains, wear and damage in time. The crucial thing is to know the nature of the problem to decide on the cleaning or repair technique.
Posted by Waivio guest: @waivio_joe-mathew