Trusted Natural Stone, Porcelain Tile & Slabs in Spring Valley, NV

Granite is the most popular stone type used in countertop applications today. Granites are some of the hardest of the common countertop stones, offering high levels of resistance to abrasion and scratching. Granites are made up of several different minerals, each mineral having a different hardness. Granites contain quartz, feldspars, biotite, amphibole, ferrous titanium oxides, and other mineral combinations. Limestone is a sedimentary stone with at least 50% calcite or calcium carbonate content. Almost all limestone is composed of grains or fragments of biologic origin, ranging from fossils to dinosaur bones. Most limestone is marine in origin, composed of micro-sized fossils of marine organisms like the shells found on most beaches. It is very common to find pieces of shells in limestone tiles.

Marble is a metamorphic rock predominantly consisting of calcite, dolomite and crystals. Onyx originates from deposits of limestone caverns, where it forms stalactites and stalagmites. Onyx is formed by gentle, dripping water movement and may envelop terrestrial fossil remains. Since onyxes are formed by a process of crystallization, they are considered part of the marble family. Marbles and Onyxes typically have a diverse aesthetic appeal, accentuated by distinct veining and often bold colors. They are relatively softer than granite. Marbles can be scratched by kitchen utensils, so it is best to use cutting boards and other protective measures. Marbles can also be etched by chemical attack. Since these stones are calcium carbonate-based, they can be damaged by exposure to acidic solutions such as lemon juice, tomatoes, vinegar, etc. The use of inappropriate cleaning agents may also trigger acidic attack. Acidic solutions can permanently etch the surface of the material. The application of a sealer will reduce, but not eliminate, the vulnerability to acidic attack. For these reasons, marbles and onyxes are not recommended for use in kitchens, however they can be a good selection for bathroom vanities for example.

The final look of mixed tiles may fall short of appearance expectations, especially if the stone is variegated and veined. The installer should mix tiles from different boxes during the installation to achieve a more even, visually pleasing result in the finished surface. The homeowner should always look at the natural stone with the installer before the installation takes place. Moreover, it is highly recommended that the homeowner gets involved and discusses the stone layout with the installer in details to prevent misunderstandings from occurring.

Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral PH stone cleaner available at retail stores or at your local tile and stone dealer, or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a clean rag mop on floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

In the bath or other wet areas, soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. To remove soap scum, use an approved non-acidic soap scum remover available at retail stores or at your local tile and stone dealer.