Marble and Granite Care

Granite and marble are two of the most popular natural stones used in countertops, flooring and other surfaces, known for their beauty and elegance. However, each stone has unique properties that require distinct care routines. Granite is a dense, durable material with lower porosity, making it resistant to stains and less prone to absorbing moisture. In contrast, marble, while equally stunning, is more porous and can be easily damaged by acids or harsh chemicals, requiring more careful maintenance. Understanding these differences is key to preserving their appearance and longevity. This article will delve into the specific care instructions for both granite and marble, exploring cleaning techniques, sealing recommendations and how to address common issues to keep your surfaces looking their best for years to come.

Differences Between Marble and Granite

Marble and granite are both natural stones, but they have distinct compositions that contribute to their aesthetic differences and maintenance needs. Marble is one of nature's wonders – a rare and beautiful material that is as functional as it is attractive, making it a traditional choice for tables, counter tops, lamps, windowsills, walls and fireplaces. This stone is primarily composed of calcium carbonate, a material that forms from limestone under heat and pressure. This gives marble its characteristic veining and range of soft, flowing colors. The veining is often the result of mineral impurities that were present during its formation, which makes each marble slab unique. Its softer texture and ability to polish to a high gloss are part of its appeal, especially in luxury settings. However, this softness also makes marble more vulnerable to scratches, etching and staining, particularly from acidic substances like citrus or vinegar. Marble’s higher porosity means it is also more susceptible to staining, especially from oils, wines or acidic substances. It requires more frequent sealing to help prevent liquid absorption and protect its surface. 

Granite, on the other hand, is an igneous rock formed from cooled magma, primarily composed of quartz, feldspar and mica. Its composition gives granite a more granular texture and a wide range of colors and patterns, from speckled to uniform. Granite’s hardness makes it more resilient to scratches and damage, and it is less reactive to acidic substances compared to marble. The durability of granite is one of the reasons it is often favored for high-traffic areas, kitchens and outdoor applications. Granite is less porous than marble, meaning it is less likely to absorb liquids and stain easily. This property allows for less frequent sealing, with most granite countertops requiring sealing only once a year or every few years, depending on the usage.
Understanding these differences is essential for choosing the appropriate cleaning solutions and sealing methods to take care of marble countertops and granite surfaces, keeping both stones in optimal condition.

Cleaning Solutions for Stone Surfaces

When it comes to cleaning both marble and granite, selecting the right cleaning solutions is crucial to preserve their beauty and integrity. Commercial cleaners specifically formulated for stone are often the best option, as they are pH-balanced and designed to clean without damaging the surface. 

For granite:

• Mild, non-abrasive cleaners are ideal to prevent scratches and maintain its shine. 
• A homemade cleaner of equal parts water and rubbing alcohol can be a great option for sanitizing and adding shine. 

For marble:

• Use cleaners that are free of acids or harsh abrasives, which can cause etching or dull the surface. 
• Avoid vinegar or lemon-based solutions, as their acidity can damage the surface. 

If you wish to take a more natural approach, homemade cleaning solutions can be just as effective. A simple mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap can be used to gently clean both types of stone. With the right cleaning products in hand, it’s important to remember that the care methods for granite and marble differ due to their unique properties, and understanding these distinctions will help you maintain each stone properly.

GRANITE 

With the proper granite care, your countertop will stay looking well-maintained for years. Here are a few simple steps to keep your hard surface clean and protected:

• Blot up spills immediately, before they penetrate the surface.
• Use Granite Wipes, such as those supplied by Weiman, to clean the granite, and always rinse and dry after washing.
• Call your professional stone supplier, installer or restoration specialist for problems that appear too difficult to treat. Ask a professional to remove or repair a scratch in granite.
• Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices.
• Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the stone surface.
• Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and place mats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that could scratch the surface.
• Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on the surface.
• Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers, scouring powders, or soft cleansers.
• Obviously, doing such things as dyeing your hair or using the sink for anything that relates to stains or dyes is a very bad idea as this may cause permanent marks in the surface of the granite.

MARBLE 

Keep your marble lovely by keeping it clean and properly protected! Learning how to care for a marble countertop is easy with a little effort and the right helpers. Through normal home use marble may dull slightly, losing some of its brightness and luster. This is easily reversed:

• Wash your marble with clean cloths and fresh luke-warm water.
• Twice a year wash it with mild detergent as an additional safeguard to remove any residual dirt, which can become ingrained.
• Protect your clean marble with a marble polish such as Weiman® Marble Polish. NOTE: Weiman® Marble Polish is not for use on floors.

There are three distinct types of problems that occur with marble:

• Soiling: Soiling is a haze or film caused by smoke, soot, dirt, dust, etc., which dulls the stone, hiding its beauty. Soil does not penetrate the marble but simply lies on the surface.
• Stains: Blemishes and discoloration caused by colored material penetrating the marble. Tea, coffee, tobacco, ink and soft drinks, color from paper or textiles can all stain marble. Oily materials such as milk, salad dressing, meat, hand cream, etc., can also cause severe staining.
• Etching: Etching is caused by the action of acids on marble when part of the surface of the marble is actually eaten away. Alcohol, wine, beer, fruit juices, soft drinks, condiments and salad dressings can all etch marble. Rings and dull spots are usually etch marks. An etched surface feels rough or depressed to the touch.

Soiling: Apply Marble Polish to a soft cloth. Wipe marble surface until soil has been removed and its luster and veining is bright and clear. The surface should be dry.
Marble Polish helps seal marble pores, inhibiting staining. It also leaves behind an invisible protective coating that slows down an etching action.
Alcohol and fruit juices will mar the finish of marble, and it is advisable to use coasters under glasses when placing them on marble tops. Any liquid spilled on marble should be washed with clean water as soon as possible.

Staining: Most stains can be removed with the application of a poultice. Make your poultice of white blotting paper, white paper napkins, or white cleansing tissue. The poultice should be soaked in the required solution and kept moist while it is on the marble. To keep your poultice moist, cover it with a plastic wrap to keep the moisture from evaporating while the stain is being drawn out. Drawing out a stain may take from 15 minutes to 24 hours, depending on the age and the severity of the stain.

Obviously, doing such things as dyeing your hair or using the sink for anything that relates to stains or dyes is a very bad idea as this may cause permanent marks in the surface of the marble.

Clean the marble after removing the poultice with clean water. Use Marble Polish to polish and protect the marble.

• Organic Stains: Organic stains are caused by tea, coffee, soft drinks that have no citric acid, wet bark, flowers, leached colors from paper or textiles. These usually take the shape of the staining object. Wash with clear water. Apply poultice of hair-bleach strength hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia.
• Oil Stains: Oil stains are caused by butter, milk, cream, salad oils, peanut butter, meat scraps, mustard, hand cream, modeling clay, etc. Wipe off with cloth dampened with ammonia. Apply poultice of equal part amyl acetate (available in drug stores) and acetone.

Etching: Wash area with clean water. If stain remains, make a poultice according to the type of stain you have. If the area feels rough, or a cavity has formed, it will be necessary to polish the marble. If you can find it—as this material is mostly available only through professionals—Putty powder (tin oxide) can be used to polish dulled or etched surfaces. Rub on the Putty powder with a damp cloth, folding and refolding to clean damp areas. An electric polisher is preferred for buffing. If surfaces are severely scratched or etched, always call a professional.

Preventing and Managing Stains on Stone Surfaces

Preventing stains on porous stone surfaces like marble requires proactive measures to protect the stone from absorbing liquids, oils and other substances. One of the most effective ways to prevent staining is by regularly sealing marble countertops and other porous stones. Sealing creates a protective barrier that reduces the stone’s ability to absorb liquids, thus minimizing the risk of stains. For high-traffic or frequently used areas, it’s advisable to reseal the stone annually or as recommended by the manufacturer. In addition, using coasters, placemats and trivets under drinks, hot pots or dishes can significantly reduce the chances of spills. For granite, while it is less porous than marble, sealing is still beneficial in protecting against any potential staining, particularly from oils or food items.

If a spill occurs, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent it from soaking into the stone. For both marble and granite, immediately blot the spill with a soft cloth or paper towel, never rubbing, as this can spread the stain. If a stain persists, particularly on marble, a poultice made of a powdered substance (such as baking soda) and water can be applied to draw out the stain. It's also essential to regularly clean and dry surfaces to prevent moisture from sitting too long and causing damage.

Regular maintenance and proper cleaning are essential to preserving the beauty and durability of your granite and marble surfaces, from kitchen countertops to bathroom vanities and everywhere throughout your home. By understanding the unique properties of each stone, you can tailor your cleaning and care routine to ensure long-lasting results. Using appropriate products to clean granite countertops, learning how to care for a marble table and taking preventative measures can help shield your stone from stains, scratches and damage. Investing in the right care now ensures that these natural stone countertops and surfaces remain beautiful, functional and easy to maintain for decades.