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Image We have many different kinds of natural stone and within each category of stone we have a wide variety of colors. We have a good selection of granite, marble, slate, limestone, and travertine samples. Each type of natural stone has specific characteristics that we would like to share with you.
Granite...The amazing beauty and durability of granite has shown over centuries. It has been used since the "Stone Age." Most granite can be identified by particles at the surface of the stone giving it a "flecked" look. The richness in color with the visual debt of the minerals makes each piece a masterpiece of nature. Granite is a stone that can be put anywhere. It is best know for being on countertops in kitchens. All you need to do is sweep it with a soft to medium broom and use a damp mop on it to remove any soils. Never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads to clean the surface.
Marble...Known as having an elegant look, marble has been used for many years in many places such as Michelangelo's David and the Taj Mahal. Marble is great for fireplace surrounds and mantels, vanity tops, floors, walls, and bathrooms. Marble is very porous and not recommended for kitchen countertops. Marble can last forever if it is properly taken care of. Soil can scratch marble so sweep with a soft broom often. Use a damp mop. Make sure you clean up spills immediately. Make sure you use coasters, trivets, and placemats. Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, acid substances, Vinegar, lemon juice, or other cleaners that contains acid.
Slate...The natural stone that is known so well for its distinct "cleft" is slate. Slate is also the natural stone known for having the most variation. This hard dense stone that is finally grained is also very durable in most any place, commercial, patios, foyers, basements, and anywhere else. This is not recommended to be put on kitchen countertops. Many people are attracted to it since the "cleft" allows some "relief" to a room and its setting. All you need to do to keep it clean is use a medium broom to sweep, damp mop with plain water or wipe up soils with a damp soft rag.
Limestone...This natural stone was used in the early 1800's for building foundations. Its strength and durability has shown over the years. New ways of quarrying and cutting have been able to enhance the characteristics of this stone. This stone can last many lifetimes if taken care of properly. Limestone is much more porous than granite and that makes it much easier to stain. This is not recommended to be put on kitchen countertops. It is great on floors, showers, vanity tops, and fireplace surrounds. Make sure you sweep often with a soft to medium broom. Use a damp mop with plain water to pick up any soils or use a damp soft rag.
Travertine...Travertine is a limestone that has been formed over a long period of time. The product is porous with many visible holes. It is available in colors ranging from ivory to golden brown. The holes and cavities may be filled with matching Portland cement, colored epoxy, or polyester resins. Travertine is a sedimentary calciferious stone formed in hot springs. Typically, hot water passes through limestone beds and takes the calcium, from the limestone into suspension and takes that solution to the surface where the water evaporates and leaves the calcium crystals in layers on the surface. Travertine can have different finishes - honed, polished, tumbled, filled, or unfilled. Travertine can be used interior/exterior - walls, fireplaces, shower/tub/vanities, flooring, and backsplashes.
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