STONE COUNTERTOPS INTEGRITY CHECK

Just like we need a physical every now and then to make sure everything’s running smoothly, your stone countertops could use a little check-up, too. After all, they’re working hard every day—handling spills, hot pans, sharp knives, and everything else life throws their way. So grab your lab coat (okay, maybe just a notepad and an apron), and let’s give your stone surfaces the attention they deserve.

Here’s how to give your countertops their own little “physical” and what to look out for.

1. Start with the Visual Exam

Take a slow walk around your countertop and really look at it—like a doctor checking your vitals. Is the surface dull in some spots and shiny in others? Do you see rings or cloudy patches? These can be signs of etching, which often shows up on marble, travertine, and limestone. Etching is caused by acidic substances—think lemon juice, vinegar, or even tomato sauce—that react with the surface and leave behind dull marks.

Check-up tip: Try shining a flashlight across the surface at a low angle. If the light reveals hazy patches or dull rings, you likely have etching. These areas can usually be restored with the right polishing product—or a call to your professional if it’s widespread.

2. The Seal Test: Is Your Stone Protected?

Stone sealers don’t last forever, and if your countertop isn’t sealed properly, it’s more vulnerable to staining. Here’s a simple way to test if your stone needs resealing:

Seal Check DIY:

• Pour a small amount of water (about a tablespoon) on several spots of your countertop.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
• Wipe it away and check if the stone darkened underneath.

If it did, the stone absorbed the water—which means it’s time to reseal. If the water beaded up and wiped away clean, your seal is still doing its job.

Pro tip: Perform this test in high-use areas like around the sink or cooktop. These spots tend to lose their sealer faster due to wear.

3. Check the Caulking: The “Joint Health” Exam

Just like our joints need a little TLC, the joints and seams of your countertop need attention too. Check where your countertop meets the backsplash, walls, or other surfaces. Caulking is there to seal those joints and keep out moisture—but it doesn’t last forever.

Things to look for:

• Cracked, crumbling, or peeling caulk
• Gaps between the countertop and backsplash
• Signs of mold or mildew

If you see any of these, it’s time to replace the caulk. Use a high-quality silicone or urethane caulk that’s safe for stone (make sure it’s non-staining). Clean out the old caulk first and apply a fresh, even bead to seal things up.

4. Run Your Hands Over the Surface

Now that you’ve done the visual check, it’s time to get tactile. Run your hands over the countertop. Do you feel any rough patches, pits, or tiny chips along the edges or around the sink?

Small chips can sometimes be repaired with a stone epoxy or filler kit, but larger damage might need a professional touch. Catching these early prevents them from getting worse.

5. Stain Patrol

Take a moment to inspect for stains. Oil, wine, coffee, and rust are common culprits, especially on lighter-colored stones. If you spot one, don’t panic—there are specialized stain removers and poultices that can lift them out. But it’s important to identify the stain type before you treat it.

If you’re not sure what you’re dealing with, take a photo and consult a stone care professional—you don’t want to make it worse by using the wrong product.

Make It Routine

A countertop physical doesn’t need to be a big production. Doing a check like this once or twice a year—maybe when you’re spring cleaning or swapping out seasonal décor—can save you a ton of hassle down the road. It helps you catch problems early, maintain the beauty of your stone, and extend the life of your investment.

And just like with your own health, prevention is key. Keep up with sealing when needed, wipe up spills quickly (especially acidic ones), and use cutting boards and trivets to protect your surface.

So go ahead—give your countertop a clean bill of health. And if you spot something suspicious, don’t wait—just like you’d call your doctor, give your favorite stone restoration pro a ring.

Your stone will thank you.

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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.

CONSIDERING PROFESSIONAL STONE RESTORATION

Thinking about putting your house on the market? Here’s why you should consider professional stone restoration first

If you’re planning to sell your home, maximizing your property’s appeal and value is likely at the top of your to-do list. While homeowners often focus on fresh paint or landscaping, one high-impact yet frequently overlooked detail is the condition of natural stone floors and countertops. Marble, granite, travertine, and other natural stone surfaces can significantly influence potential buyers’ first impressions. Here’s why investing in professional stone restoration before listing your home could provide a tremendous return on investment.

Elevate Your Home’s Aesthetic Appeal

Natural stone can be a showstopper—but only when it’s in good condition. Over time, foot traffic, spills, and everyday wear can cause dullness, scratches, and staining that diminish the elegance of your floors and countertops.

• Restored beauty: Professional restoration brings back the original shine and color variations that make natural stone so special.
• Cleaner, brighter space: Smooth, polished stone reflects light more effectively, making rooms appear larger and brighter.

When buyers walk into a home with gleaming marble floors or impeccably maintained granite countertops, they immediately get the sense that the property has been well cared for.

Remove Stains and Signs of Wear

Stubborn stains, etching, and scratches on stone surfaces can be challenging for homeowners to fix on their own. Professional stone restorers employ specialized techniques, such as:

• Diamond grinding and honing: To level uneven surfaces and remove deep scratches.
• Polishing: To bring back the stone’s natural luster.
• Sealing: To protect against future stains, spills, and wear.

By effectively removing existing imperfections and protecting against new ones, restoration ensures your stone surfaces look pristine for showings and open houses.

Increase Perceived Value

Buyers appreciate homes that appear “move-in ready.” Visible scratches or dull spots in stone flooring and countertops can send a message that the property needs additional work, potentially lowering offers or deterring buyers altogether.

• Higher asking price: A well-maintained home can command a higher price.
• Fewer buyer objections: Addressing aesthetic and maintenance concerns before listing can reduce buyer requests for concessions later.

Since high-quality stone installations often carry a premium price tag, making sure these features look their best can help justify a robust listing price.

Make a Great First Impression Online

Online listings are often the first place potential buyers see your home. If the photos showcase shiny marble floors or sleek granite countertops, it can pique interest right away.

• Professional photography: Stone surfaces that have been professionally restored will look especially impressive in high-resolution photos.
• More showings: Beautiful images encourage more buyers to schedule a viewing.

In a competitive real estate market, every advantage counts. Eye-catching details—like the sparkle of polished stone—can drive traffic to your listing.

Extend the Life of Your Stone Surfaces

Selling your house isn’t just about capturing short-term value; it’s also about providing peace of mind to potential buyers. Showing that your stone floors and countertops have been well cared for and recently restored signals that:

• You’ve invested in regular maintenance: The surfaces are less likely to have hidden damage.
• Buyers won’t face costly repairs soon: A major selling point if someone is on the fence between multiple properties.

A professional sealant applied during restoration extends the life of natural stone, keeping it looking great and reducing long-term maintenance expenses.

Restoration Is More Cost-Effective Than Replacement

Natural stone replacement projects can be expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, the vast majority of dull, stained, or scuffed surfaces can be revitalized without the need for a full replacement.

• Lower costs: Restoration often costs only a fraction of what you’d spend on new stone.
• Faster timeline: Skilled professionals can restore your stone more quickly than an installation crew can replace it, meaning your home can be on the market sooner.

This balance of lower cost and high impact makes professional stone restoration a savvy choice for home sellers looking for a strong return on investment.

How to Get Started

If you’re considering stone restoration:

1. Reach out to your stone restoration PRO : Schedule a time to evaluate your surfaces, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed quote.
2. Plan ahead: Schedule the restoration at least a couple of weeks before listing. This ensures the work is complete by the time your real estate photos are taken.
3. Coordinate with your real estate agent: They’ll likely have guidance on timing and staging the property to highlight your newly polished stone.

Conclusion

When you’re preparing to sell, every detail matters. Natural stone floors and countertops, when professionally restored, can dramatically boost your home’s overall appeal and help justify a stronger asking price. The result? Beautiful listing photos, a memorable first impression for buyers, and the potential for a faster sale at a higher value.

So, if you’re thinking of putting your house on the market soon, consider investing in a professional stone restoration service first. It’s a transformative improvement that can pay dividends in your final sale price and make the process of selling your home a smoother and more rewarding experience.

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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.

Thinking About Ripping Out Your Carpet and Restoring Your Terrazzo Floors? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve discovered terrazzo under your carpet, you’ve stumbled upon a treasure. Terrazzo floors, with their distinctive blend of colorful chips and smooth, glossy finish, can bring timeless beauty to your home. However, uncovering and restoring terrazzo isn’t as simple as yanking up the carpet—it requires careful handling to avoid damage.

Here’s what you need to know before you move forward with the restoration process.

Leave Tack Strip Removal to the Pros

One of the most important steps when removing carpet from terrazzo is dealing with the tack strips—the wooden strips with nails that hold the carpet in place. These strips are often nailed or screwed directly into the terrazzo. If they’re pulled out, they can take chunks of terrazzo with them, leaving behind holes and unsightly damage.

A professional will carefully cut the tack strips flush with the terrazzo surface to prevent damage. This method avoids unnecessary repairs and preserves the integrity of the floor.

Let the Experts Handle Adhesive Removal

In some cases, carpet padding may have been glued down, leaving behind sticky or hardened adhesive residue. Removing this residue requires the right tools and products to avoid etching or scratching the terrazzo surface. Your professional stone restoration contractor has specialized products and techniques to safely and effectively remove adhesive without harming the terrazzo.

Avoid Scratches and Chips

Scraping at residue with metal tools, abrasive pads, or harsh chemicals can cause scratches or even discoloration. Professionals know how to approach terrazzo with the care it requires, using gentle yet effective methods to ensure the surface remains intact and ready for restoration.

Prepare the Space for Restoration

Once the carpet is gone, your restoration team will take the necessary steps to repair, clean, and polish the terrazzo. Before they begin, make sure the room is cleared of furniture and valuables. Restoration work can sometimes produce dust, so you may also want to cover nearby areas and check that air vents are protected.

Terrazzo Repairs Require Expertise

If there are chips, cracks, or holes, your restoration contractor will repair them using materials that match the terrazzo’s color and composition. This process requires precision to ensure the repairs blend seamlessly with the surrounding surface. Attempting to patch these areas yourself with general fillers or patching kits can lead to mismatched, obvious repairs.

Trust the Process

Restoring terrazzo is a multi-step process involving deep cleaning, grinding to remove imperfections, and polishing to achieve that signature high-gloss finish. It may take time, but the result will be stunning, with a floor that looks brand new and shines for years to come.

Ask for Maintenance Recommendations

Once your terrazzo has been restored, your contractor will provide tips for keeping it in pristine condition. Most terrazzo floors do best with a pH-neutral cleaner and regular sweeping or dust mopping to prevent grit from dulling the surface.

Restoring terrazzo after carpet removal can transform your home and reveal a beautiful, durable surface. By hiring a professional to handle every step—from cutting tack strips flush to removing adhesive and polishing—you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure your floors look their absolute best.

If you’ve uncovered terrazzo and are ready to breathe new life into it, reach out to your stone PRO to guide you through the process and bring out the full potential of your floors.

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

SOAPSTONE CARE TIPS

Soapstone countertops are prized for their natural beauty, durability, and unique appearance, but they require specific care to keep their looks and functionality.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to care for your soapstone countertops:

Daily Cleaning

For routine cleaning, simply use a soft cloth or sponge with mild dish soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface. Soapstone is non-porous, so it is naturally resistant to stains and bacteria, making everyday cleaning a breeze.

Regular Oiling/Waxing

One of the distinct characteristics of soapstone is its darkening over time. To ensure an even, rich color, apply mineral oil or soapstone wax periodically. Start by cleaning the surface thoroughly. Once dry, apply a small amount of mineral oil or wax using a soft cloth. Spread the oil/wax evenly across the countertop, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. Initially, you may need to repeat this process every few weeks. Over time, as the soapstone patinas, the frequency will reduce to a few times a year.

Handling Stains and Scratches

While soapstone is dense and less prone to staining, oil-based substances can darken the stone temporarily. For deeper cleaning, a gentle soap and water solution will usually suffice. If scratches occur, they can often be sanded out with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit, followed by 220-grit). After sanding, reapply mineral oil or wax to blend the repair with the rest of the surface.

Avoiding Damage

Despite its durability, soapstone is softer than some other countertop materials. To prevent damage, use cutting boards when chopping food and trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans. While it’s heat-resistant and can handle brief contact with hot items, prolonged exposure can cause cracking.

Long-Term Maintenance

Regular oiling/waxing and prompt attention to any damage are key to maintaining soapstone countertops. Over the years, the patina will develop, giving your countertops a unique and aged look. Embrace this natural evolution as part of the charm of soapstone.

Caring for soapstone countertops involves simple, regular maintenance and gentle handling. With proper care, these countertops can remain beautiful and functional for many years, adding a timeless elegance to your kitchen or bathroom.

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

THE BENEFITS OF GROUT COLOR SEALING

Grout color sealing is a game-changer for maintaining and enhancing the beauty of tiled surfaces.

Whether in kitchens, bathrooms, or other areas, grout plays a crucial role in holding tiles together and adding to the visual appeal. However, grout is also porous, making it susceptible to staining, discoloration, and dirt accumulation over time. This is where grout color sealing offers significant advantages.

1. Enhanced Appearance
   Grout color sealing revitalizes the look of your tiled surfaces. It allows homeowners to choose a new color or match the existing shade, ensuring a uniform and polished appearance. Discolored or uneven grout lines can make even the most expensive tile look unattractive. With color sealing, grout is transformed, giving the entire surface a fresh, clean appearance.
2. Protection Against Stains and Dirt
   One of the primary benefits of grout color sealing is its ability to create a protective barrier. The sealant penetrates the grout and repels water, oils, and other contaminants. This prevents stains from seeping into the grout and keeps dirt and debris on the surface, making cleaning much easier.
3. Long-Lasting Durability
   Color sealing enhances the durability of grout by reducing wear and tear. It strengthens the surface, making it more resistant to cracks, chipping, and other damage. Properly sealed grout can last for years, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
4. Mold and Mildew Prevention
   In areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, mold and mildew can become a problem. Grout color sealing creates a moisture-resistant layer, significantly reducing the likelihood of mold growth. This contributes to a healthier indoor environment.
5. Easier Maintenance
   Cleaning color sealed grout is significantly easier compared to unsealed grout. With the protective layer in place, spills, dirt, and grime can be wiped away or mopped away. Routine maintenance requires less time and effort, saving homeowners both time and frustration.
6. Cost-Effective Solution
   Grout color sealing is a cost-effective way to rejuvenate tiled surfaces without replacing the grout or tile. It offers a budget-friendly alternative that enhances the looks and functionality of your tiled surfaces, adding value to your home.

Grout color sealing is an investment that improves the appearance, durability, and cleanliness of tiled surfaces. By protecting grout from stains, moisture, and damage, it ensures long-lasting beauty and easier maintenance, making it an essential solution for homeowners and businesses alike.

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

Did you know that the finish on your stone can be changed? Whether you’re looking to tone down the high-gloss of a polished floor, elevate a matte finish to a mirror-like sheen, or explore decorative finishes, transforming your natural stone’s finish is an option to give your space a fresh, new look.

Natural stone stands in a league of its own among surface materials, offering an unparalleled blend of durability and adaptability. Unlike other surfaces that may need complete replacement when worn or damaged, natural stone can be restored to its original glory—even if it’s scratched, cracked, or chipped. But restoration is just the beginning. With natural stone, you have the unique opportunity to dramatically transform its appearance—for example, taking it from a high-polish finish to a sophisticated matte or satin sheen, or vice versa. This ability to refinish and reinvent makes natural stone not just a material choice, but a long-term investment in versatility and style.

Before diving into the possibilities, let’s briefly explore the most common stone finishes:

1. Polished Finish: Achieved by grinding the stone surface with fine abrasives, this finish creates a reflective, high-gloss surface that highlights the stone’s natural colors and veining.
2. Honed Finish: Offers a smooth, satin-like surface with less shine than polished stone, making it a popular choice for floors and countertops where subtle elegance is desired.
3. Matte Finish: A non-reflective surface that gives a soft, natural look, ideal for creating a rustic or understated aesthetic.
4. Decorative Finishes: Includes unique textures like leathered, flamed, brushed, or sandblasted finishes, each adding distinct character to the stone.

Changing Your Stone’s Finish

Thanks to advanced stone restoration techniques, you can transform your stone’s finish to suit your design vision or functional needs.

From Polished to Satin or Matte Finish

If you have a high-gloss polished floor and prefer a softer, understated look, changing to a satin or matte finish is a straightforward process:

• Honing: Technicians use diamond abrasives to remove the polished layer, revealing a satin-like finish underneath.
• Benefits: Satin or matte finishes are less reflective, making imperfections like scratches or smudges less visible. They also provide better slip resistance, which is ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with children and pets.

From Matte to High Polish

Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with the luxurious look of polished stone and want to elevate your existing matte finish. This transformation involves:

• Polishing with Fine Abrasives: A combination of polishing compounds and diamond pads restores the stone to a high-gloss sheen, amplifying its natural colors and details.
• Benefits: A polished finish is perfect for creating a luxurious ambiance and enhancing the vibrancy of the stone’s veining and patterns.

Is It Right for You?

Changing your stone’s finish can:

• Refresh Your Space: A new finish can dramatically alter the look of your room, giving it a modern or classic feel.
• Improve Functionality: Different finishes offer varying levels of slip resistance, maintenance requirements, and durability, allowing you to choose what best fits your lifestyle.
• Highlight New Trends: As design trends evolve, a new finish can help keep your space looking current.

The Process

While some minor maintenance can be done by homeowners, altering a stone’s finish is a process that requires professional equipment and expertise. Your skilled stone restoration contractor will use specialized tools and techniques to ensure the surface is transformed without compromising the stone’s integrity.

Maintenance After a Finish Change

After altering your stone’s finish, remember, proper care will keep it looking beautiful:

• Sealing: Depending on the stone type and finish, your technician may recommend sealing the surface to protect it from stains and moisture.
• Cleaning: Use stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaners to avoid damaging the new finish.
• Periodic Maintenance: Regular professional maintenance can help preserve the finish and extend the life of your stone.

Final Thoughts

Changing the finish on your natural stone is a powerful way to update your space without the expense of replacing the material. Whether you’re going from polished to satin, matte to high-gloss, or exploring decorative finishes, the possibilities are endless. With the help of your stone restoration PRO, you can achieve a look that aligns with your aesthetic and functional needs while enjoying the enduring beauty of natural stone.

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