Your stone should have been sealed when it was installed, helping to protect the surface and also bring out the colours and patterns which make natural stone so pleasing to the eye. However, this process does not last forever, and so it is important to regularly maintain your stone. The frequency you need to recoat the stone with protector depends on the volume of foot traffic; an ensuite bathroom may only need recoating every 18 months, whereas a hotel lobby may need it twice a year.

There are numerous products in the "Sealants & Adhesives" section with which to protect your stone. As in the tiling guide, the best way to apply this is to thoroughly clean the surface of the stone then apply the sealant with a paint tray and roller in the same direction as the joints.

Spillages

In the bathroom, avoid using conventional bathroom cleaning products as they can stain, especially those containing bleach. In the kitchen, acidic substances such as vinegar, fizzy drinks, fruit juices and some alcoholic drinks like wine are the biggest danger.

If you spill anything on the tiles which could leave a stain, the first action you should do is wipe the spillage away as much as possible using a cloth dampened with warm soapy water.

If you find the material has stained, then it is still possible to remove the stain sometimes using stronger natural stone stain removers; again, there are plenty in the "Sealants & Adhesives" section.

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