The decision to install granite or other natural stone in the home or outdoor area is a big consideration and not one to be taken lightly. Narrowing down the color and pattern of the stone you desire can be a time-consuming, yet important, experience. But, did you know the color of the natural stone can also be a determinant of the porosity of the slab? Porosity is the measure of how much space is open in the rock and the ease with which fluid can move through. The more porous a natural stone is, the more easily it can be stained by acidic and oily substances.
Composed by Nature
The natural design of all natural stones contains some element of porosity. These tiny capillary channels form between the minerals in the stone. As a result, lighter colors are generally softer and more porous. For example, creamy white marble is softer and more porous compared to other natural stones. These characteristics can make the stone easier to stain. Granite, depending on the color and veining of the stone, is always less porous than marble but its porosity will depend on the shade of the stone. Lighter colors are generally more porous than darker colors.
Man-Made Composition
On the opposite end of the spectrum are substances where the composition has been tinkered with to achieve a slightly different look or feel when compared with natural stone. Quartz, a popular and slightly cheaper alternative to granite, does not contain channels between the minerals and does not need to be sealed. Quartz is also a more durable material and is resistant to scratching. Other natural stone alternatives include concrete, wood or wood composite, glass and stainless steel.
Protecting your Choice
No matter if you choose a natural stone or a man-made composite material it’s important to be aware of the best ways to care for the materials and keep them looking like new. If you choose a natural stone, it’s important to stay alert to spills and things left lying on the surfaces. Acidic substances such as coffee, wine, vinegar, tomatoes and citrus fruits and oily substances can quickly penetrate the surface of the natural stone leaving behind a nasty, although unintentional, stain.
If you’re someone who frequently entertains or has a spill-prone family, Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner and Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer can be provide a double dose of smart stone care assurance. The non-abrasive and non-acidic granite cleaner is a safe and easy way to clean stains and soil from stone surfaces and stainless steel, leaving behind a clean, fresh scent. Further protect your investment with Rock Doctor Granite & Stone Sealer. One can covers approximately 100 square feet of stone. Earn a $2 mail-in rebate with the purchase of each Rock Doctor Item. Just scan the original receipt and email it to Rock Doctor at lauraj@apexprod.com
This article was brought to you by Rock Doctor, which offers a line of specially-formulated stone cleaner, stone polish, and stone sealer products. Rock Doctor stone care products can be purchased through a number of fine retail stores, including Wal-Mart, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Bed Bath & Beyond, Ace Hardware, Do it Best Hardware, Hy-Vee, and Wegmans.
