Get matched with top buffing and polishing pros in Camden, ME

Granite and marble compare well against each other in terms of price, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Deciding which one is better depends on your personal style and preference. Both materials resist damage like chips and cracks well. You should seal both material types against staining and etching, but they’re still susceptible if oil, wine, coffee, tomato sauce, or juice are left on the countertop long enough. As material and installation costs range similarly, the deciding factor is your budget, design, and preferences.

DIY is possible for small areas. Professional services provide deep cleaning and a polished finish for larger spaces.

The first step to resealing is a thorough steam cleaning of the tile and grout. You can do this by renting a tile and grout cleaner for $80 a day. Once you’re done cleaning the floor, it’ll cost $30 to $40 per quart for sealant. Or, you can hire a pro who will charge $1 to $2 per square foot for cleaning and resealing services.

If you would rather use vinegar to clean the stone fireplace instead of dish soap, this mixture should work fine. Vinegar is slightly acidic, however, so it may etch some kinds of stone without quite a bit of diluting. For a stone fireplace, dilute it to about one cup of vinegar for every gallon of hot water. It’s a smart idea to test the diluted mixture in an inconspicuous area of the fireplace and watch for etching. You can use vinegar to clean quite a few different items around your home, and it’s especially good at removing stains.