Maintenance - Natural stone
Cleaning:
Daily cleaning is done with a damp cloth. HORN recommend to follow with a clean, dry cloth to avoid limescale.
Granite is acid proof and withstand most cleaning products. A sponge or brush with asses water and detergent may be used to remove grease and similar. Contact with alkaline products such as chlorine and popular cleaning agents such as Cillit Bang can cause permanent damage to the surface polishing.
Marble is not acid-resistant. Acidic products such as descaling agents cannot be used without leaving a damage to the surface. In addition, acidic foods and liquids must be removed immediately.
Maintenance:
It is recommended to use HORN stone oil, which makes the natural stone less susceptible to stains. Instructions for HORN Stone oil:
- HORN Stone oil is applied to the surface using a dry, soft cloth in a smooth, thin layer. Note: The granite surface should be properly cleaned beforehand.
- Leave the stone oil for approximately 1 minute.
- Remove excess oil with a dry, clean cloth.
Granite: Limescales ca be removed with a 5% mixture of vinegar in water
Marble: Clean with a PH-neutral detergent or a specified marble cleaner.
Spot removal:
Grease from cooking can penetrate the surface of natural stones and leave a stain. Attempts to remove the stain may make the problem worse. The stain will usually disappear by itself. Coloured foods and liquids should be removed immediately as they may stain especially bright natural stones.
Granite withstands most cleaning products, but for thorough cleaning, Q-Action is recommended (Q-Action is a soap with caring components that protects all stone materials and emphasize their natural shine) as acidic cleaners may damage the surface permanently.
Q-Action Instruction:
- Spray Q-Action on the surface in a thin, even layer.
- Leave to work for approx. 1 minute.
- Clean the surface with water.
- Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
Scratch resistance:
Always use a cutting board.
Granite: The material is scratch resistant, but varies in strength dependent on the natural occurring differences in quartz content. Knives and similar sharp equipment can damage the surface permanently.
Marble: Not scratch resistant!
Heat resistance:
Always use trivets or similar. No guarantee is granted if damage is caused by heat.
Granite: Withstands the impact of brief, moderate heat, but hot pots and pans easily exceed the limit. Extreme changes in temperature or prolonged impact of heat may result in permanent damage.
Marble: Not heat resistant! Risk of cracking and discoloration.
