FAQ's & Caring for Your Stone
Source: Jillian Rotondaro
Date: February 18, 2018
When it comes to choosing the stone for your home, you want your purchase to live and grow with you, but living and growing is bound to cause some wear. It’s easy to bring your space back to life, and to help, we’ve put together a guide to cover stains to scratches, from beginning to end — because at Marmiro®, we’re with you every step of the way.
*MSNSP = Marmiro Stones® Natural Stone Pavers
Q.: How do I remove mildew & algae from my MSNSP?
A.: Option 1: Bleach
– Wet the surface with a hose
– Apply bleach
– Scrub the surface with a hard bristle brush
– Hose off the surface when done
Option 2: Simple Green
– Wet surface with a hose
– Apply the Simple Green
– Scrub the surface with a hard bristle brush
– Hose off the surface when done
Option 3:
– If the above two methods do not work, we recommend using Clean Concrete (link?) and Pro Grade (link?). For more information, contact Pat McCrindle of GST International:
P: (609)744-6894
E: pmccrindle@gstinternational.com
Q.: How do I remove rust from my MSNSP?
A.: Use RSR-2000 by Alpha Advantage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the back of the tube for the proper application.
Q.: How do I remove leaf stains from my MSNSP?
A.: Your average leaf stains can be easily power washed out.
Q.: How do I remove oil & grease from my MSNSP?
A.: Use a scrub brush and either Palmolive dish soap or a degreaser from your local hardware store.
Q.: How do I remove tire marks from my MSNSP?
A.: Use hot water and a scrub brush.
Q.: How do I remove food, water, or juice from my MSNSP?
A.: Use hot water and a scrub brush.
Q.: Can I power wash my patio?
A.: Yes! We recommend using a surface cleaner for all horizontal applications, and a wide-angle wand for all vertical applications.
– When dealing with sandblasted finishes, test a small area first — not getting too close to the surface of the product where you can potentially remove the finish and create streaks.
– It is important to note that power washing can possibly blow out polymeric sand in the joints. The joints may need to be refilled afterward. Refill the joints based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q.: What is the cause of water marks on my MSNSP?
A.: Due to the variables in nature, natural stone can tend to hold moisture, causing water marks. This does not affect the structural integrity of the product and will dissipate over time.
Q.: Does sealing my MSNSP with an enhancer make it hotter?
A.: Yes — testing is recommended before making the final decision on the type of sealer to use for your space.
Q.: It is necessary to seal my MSNSP?
A.: It is not necessary to seal, however, to improve the longevity of your MSNSP, there are multiple solvent-based penetrating sealers on the market that offer additional protection to your product in regard to staining, acid rain, repelling water, and nature’s elements.
– Different types of sealer will alter the aesthetic of your MSNSP.
Q.: How often do I have to seal my MSNSP?
A.: This depends on the client. Some clients like to clean and re-seal every year, while some clients seal one time and never seal again. Reapplication is based upon natural variables such as traffic, sunlight, and natural elements. On average, you should re-seal every 2-4 years.
Q.: Will sealing change the slip co-efficiency of my MSNSP?
A.: When applied correctly, the sealer will not change the slip co-efficiency of the product, unless purchasing a sealer specifically with the intention of changing the texture.
Q.: Which side is the finished side of my MSNSP?
A.: When determining the finished side of the stone vs. the back side of the stone, you will note blade marks on the back side. If this is not clear on some pieces, please consult with your sales rep for clarification.
Q.: Can radiant heat be used under my MSNSP?
A.: Yes! Any MSNSP will work with radiant heat, not matter the thickness or application.
Q.: Can I plow my MSNSP?
A.: Use a shover or snow blower if possible. If a plow is needed, a rubber button is recommended.
*As a safety precaution, gloves and goggles are recommended whenever working with and/or installing natural stone.