What can damage granite countertops?

• <div><p>Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:</p><ul><li><p>Citrus</p></li><li><p>Acetone nail polish remover</p></li><li><p>Tomatoes</p></li><li><p>Ammonia</p></li></ul><p>In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.</p></div>

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Q: How often should I seal soapstone?

• <div><p>Due to soapstone's non-porous nature and antimicrobial properties, you don&rsquo;t need to seal it like other stone materials like marble or granite. However, even though sealing isn't required, it can enhance soapstone's natural stain resistance. Another protective option is to apply mineral oil once per month.</p></div>

Q: Are stone steps slippery?

• <div><p>It depends on the material. Sandstone, slate, and granite can be slippery in wet weather. Applying a sealant to the stone can often stop it from absorbing moisture and may reduce the likelihood of slipping. If you're concerned about losing footing, a safer option might be bluestone or concrete.</p></div>

Q: Can you use a power sander to clean mortar from bricks?

• <div><p>No, using a power sander on brick is not recommended because the force of the sander can destroy brick's fragile outer layer. Even using sandpaper on brick is discouraged because of the damage its abrasiveness can cause. </p></div>

Q: What are the dull spots on my marble floor?

• <div><p>If you notice dull spots on your marble floor, that could result from etching. If you&rsquo;ve used the wrong type of floor cleaner in the past or left a spill unattended for too long, your marble floor may have suffered some surface damage. While there are ways to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/stone-and-countertop-etching.htm">protect your natural stone from etching</a>, you may have to call in a professional for repairs.</p></div>

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Buffing and Polishing questions, answered by experts

Due to soapstone's non-porous nature and antimicrobial properties, you don’t need to seal it like other stone materials like marble or granite. However, even though sealing isn't required, it can enhance soapstone's natural stain resistance. Another protective option is to apply mineral oil once per month.

Acid can seriously damage granite countertops and lead to etching and erosion. This is why cleaning with vinegar isn’t recommended. Other acidic items that you should keep away from your granite countertops include:

Citrus
Acetone nail polish remover
Tomatoes
Ammonia

In addition, always steer clear of using bleach on or around your granite as it will degrade the countertop’s sealant quickly.

It depends on the material. Sandstone, slate, and granite can be slippery in wet weather. Applying a sealant to the stone can often stop it from absorbing moisture and may reduce the likelihood of slipping. If you're concerned about losing footing, a safer option might be bluestone or concrete.

No, using a power sander on brick is not recommended because the force of the sander can destroy brick's fragile outer layer. Even using sandpaper on brick is discouraged because of the damage its abrasiveness can cause.

If you notice dull spots on your marble floor, that could result from etching. If you’ve used the wrong type of floor cleaner in the past or left a spill unattended for too long, your marble floor may have suffered some surface damage. While there are ways to protect your natural stone from etching, you may have to call in a professional for repairs.

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