Can You Trust AI for Proper Care Tips for Your Natural Stone?

Can You Trust AI for Proper Natural Stone Care Tips | {location}

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is everywhere today. From answering quick questions to helping with home projects, many people turn to AI for advice. But when it comes to something as valuable as your natural stone surfaces, can you really trust AI for proper care tips? Here is some valuable information from {companyname}.

The Problem with AI Learning

AI doesn’t think for itself. It “learns” from the vast amount of information available on the internet. That sounds good at first—until you realize just how much misinformation is out there. For example, one of the most common bad tips you’ll find is to clean your natural stone with vinegar and water. While that may sound harmless, vinegar is acidic, and acid can etch and dull the finish of marble, limestone, travertine, and other calcareous stones.

AI, unfortunately, can’t always separate solid expert advice from myths and mistakes that have been repeated online. That means if you rely solely on AI, you may end up with tips that sound right—but could damage your stone.

Why Getting It Right Matters

Natural stone surfaces are an investment. Improper care can lead to:

  • Etching and dull spots from acidic cleaners.
  • Permanent staining from wrong sealing advice.
  • Costly repairs that could have been avoided with the right maintenance.

When bad advice comes from a search engine or even an AI tool, the damage can happen quickly and sometimes irreversibly.

Where to Turn Instead

For trustworthy stone care information:

  • Rely on professional stone care experts. Companies that specialize in stone care and maintenance are trained to understand each stone type and its needs.
  • Use reputable resources. Our Caring For It™ articles, free Stone and Tile Care Guide, and stain treatment app are all created by professionals in the industry.
  • When in doubt, ask your PRO. A quick call to {companyname} can save you the headache of following bad online advice.

The Bottom Line

AI is a powerful tool, but it’s only as good as the information it pulls from. Because natural stone care has so much misinformation floating around, it’s risky to rely on AI for cleaning and maintenance tips. If you want your stone to stay beautiful for years to come, skip the guesswork and go with trusted, expert advice.

If you have questions about caring for your stone, contact us. We’ll make sure you get the right answers—backed by real expertise, not internet myths.


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Hardwood Floor Care Checklist: Daily, Weekly, Yearly

A breakdown of regular wood floor maintenance tasks

Hardwood Floor Care Checklist: Daily, Weekly, Yearly

Staying on top of hardwood floor care doesn’t need to be complicated. A consistent schedule ensures your floors stay clean, polished, and protected all year long. Here’s your go-to checklist to keep handy.

Daily Tasks

  • Sweep or dust with a microfiber mop to remove dirt and grit
  • Spot clean spills immediately with a soft cloth
  • Wipe pet paws and shoes at entryways

Weekly Tasks

  • Vacuum with a hardwood-safe attachment (no beater bar)
  • Damp mop with a pH-neutral hardwood floor cleaner
  • Buff high-traffic areas with a dry microfiber cloth

Monthly Tasks

  • Inspect for new scratches or signs of wear
  • Clean under rugs and furniture
  • Rotate area rugs to prevent uneven fading

Seasonal / Quarterly Tasks

  • Deep clean with a wood floor cleaning system or call in your PRO
  • Check humidity levels in your home (aim for 30–50%)
  • Apply protective pads to furniture or replace worn ones

Annual Tasks

  • Schedule a professional floor inspection and cleaning
  • Recoat floors if the finish is dull or worn
  • Reassess floor mats and rugs for wear

PRO Tip: Download this checklist as a printable PDF to keep posted in your laundry or utility room!


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Why Your Carpet Smells and How to Fix It

Fixing Carpet Smells

If your carpet smells musty, sour, or just “off,” there’s usually more going on than meets the eye. In fact, the real reason your carpet smells — and how pros make it fresh again — comes down to what’s trapped deep inside the fibers. W’ve helped countless homeowners eliminate stubborn carpet odors caused by pets, spills, moisture, and more. Here’s why carpets hold onto smells and what professional cleaning can do to restore that fresh, clean scent.

Pet Accidents and Dander

Pet urine can soak into the carpet pad, where it’s nearly impossible to reach with standard cleaning methods. Over time, bacteria break down the proteins in urine, creating a lingering ammonia-like odor. Professional odor treatments neutralize these odors at the source.

Moisture and Mold Growth

Even small amounts of moisture from spills, humidity, or over-wetting during cleaning can lead to mold or mildew growth. These fungi release musty odors that won’t go away with air fresheners. High-powered drying and antimicrobial treatments are key to eliminating the problem.

Food and Drink Spills

When liquids like coffee, wine, or juice seep into carpet fibers, they can leave behind organic residues that smell over time. Professionals use hot water extraction and specialized stain removers to break down and remove these residues completely.

Dirt and Dust Build-Up

Everyday dirt and dust can trap odors from smoke, cooking, or the environment. Without deep cleaning, these smells can become embedded and persistent. Regular professional cleaning helps prevent this buildup.

Old or Worn Carpets

Sometimes, a carpet’s age is the issue. Fibers naturally absorb odors over years of use, and in some cases, professional cleaning is the only way to revive it before considering replacement.

Why Professional Odor Removal Works

Unlike DIY methods that mask odors temporarily, professionals use enzyme-based treatments, high-heat extraction, and deep rinsing to remove odor-causing bacteria and residues. The result is a truly fresh carpet — not just a perfumed cover-up.

Say goodbye to stubborn carpet odors for good. Contact us for professional carpet odor removal and enjoy a fresher, healthier home.


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

True or False: Countertop Edition

Countertop Care Quiz

Your countertops are one of the most beautiful features in your home — but do you know the facts about caring for them? There are plenty of myths out there about stone and quartz surfaces, and some can be misleading. Take our quick True or False quiz to see how much you know (and pick up a few easy tips to keep your counters looking their best).

True or False: Quartz is 100% maintenance-free.

False. Quartz is very low maintenance, but not “no” maintenance. It resists stains better than natural stone, but dyes, markers, or excessive heat can still cause damage. A little routine care (like wiping spills and using trivets) keeps it flawless.

True or False: Marble is too delicate for kitchens.

False. Marble has been used in kitchens and architectural masterpieces for centuries. With proper sealing and routine care, marble countertops can stay beautiful and functional for decades.

True or False: All stone needs to be sealed.

False. Many types of granite are so dense they don’t need sealer, and quartz never requires sealing. For natural stone, a simple DIY “water test” can show if your counters would benefit from a fresh seal.

True or False: Vinegar and citrus cleaners are safe for stone.

False. They’re acidic and can react negatively with some stones, leaving dull spots or etching. Always use a pH-neutral cleaner made for stone or quartz.

True or False: You can cut directly on your stone counters.

False. While stone is strong, cutting directly on it can leave scratches and will quickly dull your knives. Cutting boards protect both your counters and your blades.

True or False: Hot pans are fine to place directly on countertops.

False. High heat can cause thermal shock in natural stone or resin damage in quartz. Trivets or hot pads are your countertops’ best friends.

The Bottom Line

Your countertops are built for everyday living — and with just a few smart habits, they’ll stay as gorgeous as the day they were installed. Knowing what’s true (and what’s not!) is the key to keeping them in top shape for years to come.


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

When NOT to Hire a Stone Restoration Contractor

Hiring a Stone Restoration Contractor

Not all contractors are created equal. As stone and tile restoration specialists, we’ve seen homeowners thrilled with their results—and we’ve also seen the stress, wasted money, and damaged floors that happen when the wrong person gets hired.

So let’s flip the script. Instead of asking When should you hire a contractor?, let’s talk about the warning signs of When you absolutely shouldn’t.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

🚩 No License or Insurance
If they can’t show proof of insurance or licensing (when required), that’s a deal breaker. If something goes wrong, you could be stuck with the bill.

🚩 Vague or Shifting Quotes
A reputable contractor provides a clear, detailed estimate. If the price keeps changing or the details are vague, it’s a red flag.

🚩 “Miracle” Promises
No, your floors can’t be refinished “like new” in an hour. And no, no sealer lasts forever. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

🚩 Demanding Cash or Full Upfront Payment
A deposit is normal. Demanding the full amount—or cash only—isn’t. That’s a warning sign you could be left high and dry.

🚩 A Bad Gut Feeling
Never ignore your instincts. If you feel pressured, misled, or uneasy, trust that feeling and walk away.

Why You Can Choose a Certified Surface Care PRO Partner with Confidence

That means they have gone through an independent vetting process designed to protect our clients and customers.

Before earning certification, they had to:

  • Provide proof of required licensing
  • Carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance
  • Maintain verified positive reviews and customer references
  • Sign a Commitment to Professional Integrity

So when you choose them, you’re not taking chances. You’re choosing a contractor who’s already been screened to the highest standards—by an independent company dedicated to making sure only qualified, ethical PROS earn the PRO Partner name.

The Bottom Line

Stone restoration is an investment in your home. Hiring the wrong contractor can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. But hiring the right one means lasting beauty, protection, and value.

When you hire a Certified Surface Care PRO Partner, you can feel confident knowing that you’re choosing a contractor who has been vetted, verified, and trusted—so you don’t have to second-guess your decision.

Your home deserves that level of care. And we’re here to deliver it.


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

7 Tips to Prevent Wood Floor Damage When Moving Heavy Items

How to Protect Your Wood Floors from Damage

7 Tips to Prevent Wood Floor Damage When Moving Heavy Items

One careless move with repositioning a couch. One stiletto heel at a party. One distracted piano mover. That’s all it takes to leave lasting—and expensive—damage to your wood floors. But with a little foresight, you can protect your floors and your wallet.

Your floors might look tough, but one wrong move can cause damage that costs thousands to repair. Scratches, dents, and gouges happen in seconds when heavy furniture or appliances are dragged, pushed, or spun across wood or vinyl. The key to avoiding these costly mistakes? Planning ahead and using the right techniques to protect your floors.

We often get calls from distressed homeowners who have damaged their wood or luxury vinyl floors while moving heavy furniture or appliances. A client once discovered deep scratches after removing a dishwasher, while another gouged their dining room floor just before refinishing. In one extreme case, a piano mover’s negligence led to damage across more than 100 boards, requiring a complete floor restoration.

These incidents happen because people focus on the task—moving the item—without considering how it impacts the floor beneath. Quick, unplanned actions often lead to costly mistakes. But with a little forethought and the right precautions, you can avoid expensive repairs. Here are some essential tips from the floor and surface care PROS for protecting your wood and vinyl floors.

How Floor Damage Happens

Scratches, gouges, and dents occur when heavy objects are dragged, spun, or pushed instead of being properly lifted or protected. The damage might be minor, affecting just a few boards, or severe, spanning an entire open-concept space. The type of wood also plays a role—oak is relatively resilient, while softer species like pine are highly susceptible to damage.

Believe it or not, even high heels can wreak havoc on delicate flooring. A 125-pound woman in stilettos exerts more pressure per square inch than a full-grown elephant. One New Year’s Eve party resulted in $9,000 worth of damage to a homeowner’s pine floors in just a few hours!

Protecting Your Floors from Damage

To keep your floors safe, plan ahead. Whether you’re moving a couch, refrigerator, or piano, be an advocate for your flooring. Ensure there are enough people to lift the item properly and use protective measures to prevent scratches, dents, or marks.

Essential Tips for Moving Heavy Items Without Damage

  1. Never drag furniture or appliances. Always lift and carry when possible.
  2. Use sliders or felt protectors under heavy items to prevent scratches.
  3. Lay down Ramboard™ (heavy-duty cardboard) to create a safe path. Never tape it directly to the floor—secure it to baseboards or cabinetry instead.
  4. Use a moving dolly on plywood, not directly on the floor. Place a moving blanket on the floor, lay down plywood, and roll the dolly over it.
  5. Rent an Air Sled™ for ultra-heavy appliances like refrigerators or commercial stoves. It lifts and glides heavy items safely.
  6. Enforce a no-high-heels rule on soft wood floors like pine.
  7. Replace any hard or plastic furniture casters. Replace with rubber or “floor-safe” wheels—or add caster cups. This helps minimize scuffing and prevents hard edges from digging into your wood floor.

Real-Life Cautionary Tales

  • The Piano Mover Disaster: A faulty wheel left deep scratches across an entire main level, requiring full refinishing of every connected space. The repair was on the mover’s dime—an expensive lesson in negligence.
  • The Spinning Stove Incident: A contractor spun an ultra-heavy commercial stove on a wood floor, creating deep depressions and mars across multiple boards. The repair cost? Substantial.
  • The Immovable Luxury Stove: A homeowner installed a custom-made stove so heavy that the brick floor beneath it had to be reinforced with basement piers. That stove will never move again!

Final Thought: Be Your Floor’s Best Defender

Whether you’re moving furniture yourself or supervising contractors, take precautions. Communicate clearly, insist on careful handling, and ensure movers use protective techniques. One client and I recently worked together to oversee a moving team, ensuring no dollies or hand trucks were used indoors. Thanks to proper planning, the move was flawless—and the movers earned glowing reviews and a generous tip!

A little preparation goes a long way. Protect your floors, and they’ll stay beautiful for years to come!


By Deborah Shaw-Nelson. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Your Tile Called – It’s Tired of Your Dirty Secrets

Your tile has something to say… and it’s not holding back.

Ever wonder what your tile and grout would tell you if it could? We’ve got a little inside information on what you might hear.

“Seriously? Shoes in the House?”

That’s right—your tile is officially staging an intervention. Every time you march across the floor in muddy boots or sandy sneakers, your poor tile cringes. Dirt gets ground into grout lines, and grit acts like sandpaper, slowly scratching and dulling the surface. It’s not just a mess—it’s long-term wear and tear.

Pro tip: A no-shoes policy or a few well-placed doormats can go a long way toward keeping your tile happy (and scratch-free).

“Soap Scum Is NOT a Spa Treatment.”

Your shower tile wants to talk about the layers of soap scum and hard water residue it has been collecting like badges of neglect. That “foggy look” isn’t a vibe—it’s a cry for help.

Pro tip: Regularly clean shower tile with a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge. Bonus points for squeegeeing after each use. Your tile will thank you—probably with more sparkle and less sass.

“Grout Isn’t Supposed to Be *That* Color…”

Your tile is deeply concerned about what used to be bright white grout, now sporting an alarming shade of gray (or possibly black). Tile is the showstopper, sure, but grout is the unsung hero—and right now, it’s under serious stress.

Pro tip: Invest in a good grout cleaner or call in your PRO for deep cleaning and resealing. Clean grout makes the whole floor look brand-new. It’s basically grout therapy.

“I’m Tile, Not a Cutting Board.”

If you’re chopping veggies directly on your kitchen countertop tile, your tile is currently filing a complaint. While tile is tough, it’s not immune to chips, scratches, or damage from knives and heat.

Pro tip: Use cutting boards and trivets. You’ll protect your tile and keep your counters looking beautiful. Bonus: your knives will last longer too.

“One Word: Sealer.”

Your tile would like to remind you that sealing isn’t optional. If you have natural stone or porous tile, skipping sealer is like heading into a storm without an umbrella—everything gets soaked, stained, or worse.

Pro tip: Depending on your tile type, resealing every 1–2 years helps prevent stains and damage. It’s like armor for your tile.

Show Your Tile Some Love

At the end of the day, your tile doesn’t ask for much—just a little routine care, attention, and a break from your dirtiest habits. Keep it clean, keep it sealed, and keep the shoes off. Do that, and your tile will keep shining (and stop silently judging your grout neglect) for years to come.

Pro tip: Look, we get it—you’ve tried the elbow grease, the homemade concoctions, even the toothbrush method. But if your grout still looks like it’s been through a mud wrestling match, or your tile has lost its will to shine, it’s time to call in a professional. Your PRO has the tools, training, and magical powers (okay, just really good equipment) to deep clean, restore, and reseal without wrecking your surfaces. Consider it a spa day for your tile—with zero judgment and plenty of sparkle.


By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Save Your Stone and Your Wallet from Disaster

Marble Care Tips

What NOT to Use on Marble – a Homeowner’s Guide 

If you have beautiful marble or natural stone surfaces in your home, you know they bring a touch of elegance that is parallel to nothing else. But did you know that some common cleaning products can actually damage that beauty? They can leave dull spots, scratches, or even cause permanent damage that might require a professional to fix.

No worries, though. Here is what you need to know about what not to use on your marble and stone so you can keep it looking great for years to come.

The Common Culprits: Cleaning Products That Can Harm Your Marble

  1. Bar Keepers Friend
    This product sounds harmless, but it contains acidic ingredients that are tough on marble. Acid reacts with the calcium carbonate in marble and can cause etching. This shows up as a cloudy, dull mark that often needs a professional to remove.
  2. Vinegar and Lemon Juice
    Many people think these are natural and safe, but both are acidic and can eat away at the polished surface. They leave dull spots that are difficult to remove.
  3. Bathroom Cleaners
    Many bathroom products contain bleach or acidic ingredients. Some also have abrasives that can scratch the marble surface.
  4. Glass Cleaners
    Products like Windex can contain ammonia and other chemicals that damage the finish of marble.

So, What Should You Use Instead?

The good news is that it is surprisingly simple to keep your stone looking its best. Here are some safe and effective tips:

  • Use pH-neutral stone cleaner that is labeled for marble and natural stone.
  • For quick cleanups, a damp microfiber cloth often works well without any cleaner at all.
  • Avoid products that contain acid, bleach, ammonia, or abrasives.
  • Always test any new product in a small, hidden spot first.
  • Have your stone surfaces sealed and re-sealed as necessary to help protect them from stains.
  • Consider etch protection treatments for acid-sensitive stone tops.

Keep Your Stone Beautiful and Save Yourself Headaches

A little knowledge can save you a lot of trouble. By avoiding harsh cleaners like Bar Keepers Friend, vinegar, and bleach, you will protect your marble from damage and save money on repairs.

If you are ever unsure about a product, ask us for advice. Your marble will thank you.


By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Dirty Grout? Here’s What to Do

How to Fix Dirty, Stained Grout

When your grout gets dirty, it can make your entire floor or shower wall look grimy. We understand how frustrating it is to constantly scrub your grout only to see the dirt return. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there are solutions.

Common Causes of Dirty Grout

  • Porous Material: Grout is naturally porous, which means it easily absorbs dirt, spills, and moisture.
  • Improper Sealing: If your grout hasn’t been sealed properly (or at all), it’s vulnerable to staining and discoloration.
  • High Traffic Areas: Kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms see heavy use, which can grind soil into your grout lines.
  • Mopping Mistakes: Dirty mop water is one of the biggest reasons grout gets dirty! Dirty mop water often spreads grime into grout lines instead of cleaning them.

Fixes That Work

  • Routine Cleaning: Use a pH-balanced tile and grout cleaner for effective results.
  • Update Cleaning Habits: Use clean water when mopping and avoid bleach-based cleaners that can degrade grout over time.
  • Use Doormats and Rugs: In high-traffic areas, rugs and mats reduce the amount of dirt reaching your floors.
  • Have your Grout Sealed or Color Sealed: A quality grout sealer forms a protective barrier that resists moisture and staining. Color sealing is a complete game changer. With it, you can even change the color of your grout, and it protects from mold, mildew, staining, and creates a uniform, pristine appearance that lasts for years with simple damp mopping.

When to Call Your PRO

If your grout remains dirty despite regular cleaning, or if you’re dealing with mold, deep stains, or crumbling grout, it’s definitely time to consult your tile and grout restoration PRO. As experts, we have commercial-grade tools and cleaners that go beyond DIY methods. We can also reseal, color seal, or even regrout your tile properly, ensuring long-lasting cleanliness.

Grout that stays dirty isn’t just an eyesore—it can harbor bacteria and shorten the life of your tile. With the right maintenance routine and a little preventative care, your grout can stay clean and your tile can shine like new for years to come.


By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Carpet Cleaning vs. Carpet Restoration

Cleaning vs. Carpet Restoration

We make it a point to inform our customers about all things related to carpet care. From time to time, we are asked, “What’s the Difference between Carpet Cleaning vs. Carpet Restoration, and When Do You Need Each?”

At first glance, carpet cleaning and carpet restoration might sound like the same thing—but they’re actually quite different. Knowing which one you need can save you money, extend the life of your carpeting, and help you maintain a cleaner, healthier home.

What Is Carpet Cleaning?

Carpet cleaning refers to routine or maintenance cleaning designed to remove surface-level dirt, stains, and allergens. Most professional carpet cleaners use one of the following methods:

  • Hot water extraction (steam cleaning)
  • Encapsulation
  • Bonnet cleaning
  • Dry compound cleaning

The goal is to freshen up the carpet, improve appearance, and remove contaminants like dust mites, pet dander, and allergens. This is typically recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on traffic, pets, and household habits.

When Carpet Cleaning Is Enough

Carpet cleaning is ideal for:

  • Regular maintenance
  • Light to moderate stains
  • Refreshing a dull appearance
  • Odor removal

It works well when the carpet is in good condition overall and just needs a deep clean to look and feel better.

What Is Carpet Restoration?

Carpet restoration goes far beyond cleaning. It involves reviving heavily soiled, damaged, or neglected carpet and can include:

  • Deep extraction and agitation
  • Specialized stain removal
  • Padding or backing repair
  • Deodorizing and sanitizing
  • Stretching or reinstallation

This process is typically handled by restoration contractors who specialize in saving carpets that are on the brink of needing replacement.

When You Need Carpet Restoration

Carpet restoration is the right choice when:

  • There’s water or smoke damage
  • Stains are deeply embedded or widespread
  • The carpet smells musty or moldy
  • Pet accidents have soaked into the pad
  • There are wrinkles, ripples, holes, rips, or separations

Restoration may also be part of larger damage recovery, such as after flooding or a fire, and is often covered by insurance when part of a loss claim.

Which One Should You Choose?

If your carpets are structurally sound and mostly just look dirty or smell musty, a deep professional cleaning may be all you need. But if the problems go beyond the surface—or if past cleanings haven’t helped—it may be time to consider restoration services.

The Bottom Line

Regular carpet cleaning is like getting a tune-up for your flooring, while restoration is more like calling in a mechanic after a breakdown. If you’re unsure, your trusted PRO can assess your carpet’s condition and recommend the right solution.


By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of Caring For It™ articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.