General Maintenance Tips

Before installation, all stone will be sealed with an appropriate penetrating sealing product available at Cosa Bella. With all natural stone products, we recommend the use of a neutral cleaner. Harsh chemicals, especially acidic or alkaline products can cause damage to polished stones.

On countertops wipe with warm water and a mild cleaner that does not contain any abrasives, ammonia, bleach or vinegar.

Dust mop interior floors. Like all high-gloss materials, stone installed as flooring should be kept free of dust, sand and tracked-in soil. This sediment can damage the polished finish of even the hardest stone. A good "first line of defense" is the strategic placement of walk-off mats at any outside entrances. If the floor is sediment-free, mopping and rinsing with clean, warm water will be sufficient to keep your floor looking beautiful.

Prevent soap scum build-up in showers and baths by using a squeegee.

Granite
As one of the hardest of the natural stones, granite is especially appropriate for use as flooring or countertops. An igneous rock, granite handles heat extremely well; taking a hot pan from the stove and placing it on a granite countertop is perfectly all right.

Do remember, however, that some granite can be stained by some liquids or darkened by oils if not properly sealed with a penetrating stone sealer. Once sealed, granite shouldn’t require any special care other than regular cleaning with warm, soapy water.

Marble / Limestone / Travertine
Marble, limestone and travertine are calcareous (calcium-based) stones that are perfect for foyer and bathroom flooring, walls, bathroom counters and fireplaces. These natural stones are softer more porous stones that are not recommended to be used as a kitchen countertop.

After installation, seal with a penetrating stone sealer. Sealing will minimize any absorption of liquids that might stain the material. Polished marble, limestone and travertine can still, however, be damaged by acidic substances (such as vinegar, citrus drinks, mustard and more). These acids can dull a polished surface or roughen a honed finish if not wiped up promptly.

If necessary, clean with a stone cleaner, neutral Ph cleaner or mild dishwashing liquid. Never use abrasive cleansers, "soft scrub" products or harsh or acidic chemicals on any stone as these can scratch or dull the polished finish. A good rule of thumb is never to use anything on your stone that you wouldn’t use on your hands.

There are excellent stone-specific cleaning products available, including pH-neutral cleaners that are specifically formulated to be gentle to stone surfaces. Avoid cleaning products not specifically designed for marble, limestone or travertine.

Please visit your local Cosa Bella location for stone cleaning products and sealants. If you have any questions our staff will be happy to help you.

Vista Design Studio:
1102 Huger Street
Columbia, SC 29201
P 803.771.0522

Irmo Design Studio:
7210-F Broad River Road
Irmo, SC 29063
P 803.781.1169