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Granite is an igneous rock that was formed billions of years ago when magma cooled deep beneath the earth's crust. It is nearly as durable as diamond; granite owes its density and hardness to its origins, solidified deep within the earth under extreme pressure.

The commercial definition of granite includes many stones that are not truly granites as defined by a geologist, but these stones perform like granites and have the same characteristics.

Marble is a metamorphic form of limestone. Marble formed when sediment and other materials forged together beneath the weight of heavy bodies of water.

After millions of years, these crystallized minerals resulted in the stones that today we refer to as marbles, travertines, and onyx.

A considerable amount of research has been published in peer-reviewed scientific literature, and all of it comes to the same conclusion: the levels of radon coming off a granite countertop are not excessive and do not show any risk to the population in their homes.

Properly sealed natural stone countertops, vanities, or flooring will resist absorption. Occasionally, lighter colored granites and marble may show some staining.  Because a few stones are porous, you may be able to remove the stain by reversing the absorption process.  If you apply a medium that can reabsorb the stain, you can remove it from the stone. A typical medium is called a poultice.

Using the appropriate removal technique is important to achieving the desired results. You should never attempt to remove a stain until you determine the material that caused it. You should test the stain as often as necessary to correctly identify the material. Once it has been identified, use the appropriate removal technique described in the Stain Treatment Reference Chart.

Stains should be treated as soon as possible after they occur. As time goes by, it becomes increasingly difficult to remove the stain. Many stains become so deeply embedded that a chemical solution will need to be added to the poultice to dilute and/or react with the stain.

The process can be simple.  Here is a list of the materials you may need:

• Cotton Balls
• Paper Towels
• Fabric
• Household Baking Soda
• Mineral Spirits
• Bleach
• Household Detergent
• Ammonia
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Various GranQuartz Cleaners
• Sparks SR-5 Stripper
• Plastic Wrap
• Non-marking Tape

Mix the household baking soda with distilled water or the chemical required (according to the Stain Treatment Reference Chart) to make a paste with a consistency like peanut butter. The paste should be applied approximately 1/8 to ¼ inch thick, overlapping the stain by ½ to 1 inch. Cover the area with plastic wrap and secure the edges down with non-marking tape. The poultice must dry completely. As the poultice dries, it will pull the stain from the area into the paste. Drying time is usually 24-48 hours, depending on the type of poultice being utilized. If the stain has improved but is not completely gone, re-apply the poultice. Multiple applications may be required.

Kitchens:  Natural stone transforms the kitchen into an exceptionally attractive and durable living and workspace. Your favorite ingredients and most trusted tools can seriously affect the stone and grout joints. A quality stone care system minimizes stains from cooking oil, grease, vegetables, coffee, and tea, etch marks from wine, vinegar, cola, and critic acids, and scratches from sharp objects.

Bathrooms & Spas:  Luxurious baths and spas relax and rejuvenate you, and spacious, elegant counter areas help start the day with ease. A stone care system that cleans and protects against hard water, cosmetics, soap scum deposit, and mildew will keep them looking and functioning at their best—a full veneer natural stone look.

Outdoors:  Exterior natural stone makes a positive first impression. When you incorporate a stone care system to maintain its quality and protect it against the elements, everyone looks forward to coming home. Water and moisture contribute significantly to decay, efflorescence, mildew, and algae. Wet/dry and freeze/thaw cycles cause the stone to loosen/blister and grout to crack.

Foyers & Living Areas:  Natural stone complements the areas where you entertain the most and displays fine furniture and art. A comprehensive stone care system protects against food spills, dulling, scratches, and other surface blemishes caused by daily wear from shoes and the tracking in of abrasive particles.