“In terms of grouts, some stones – specifically soft stones with pol- ished finishes – can get scratched easily if sanded grout is used,” Chiu added. “Therefore, unsand- ed grout needs to be utilized. However, there are limitations regarding what type of grout can be used based on the grout width. If your grout width is wider than 1/8”, sanded grout needs to be uti- lized. If the grout width is less than 1/8”, unsanded grout will need to be used. If your grout width is too wide to use unsanded grout, then use sanded grout but apply it care- fully to prevent scratching.” Keeping stone beautiful Once installed, counsel your client on maintenance to ensure long life and beauty of the stone. “Keeping the surface clean is the golden rule of natural stone,” Viana said. “As a porous stone, it can be susceptible to stains and discolor- ations from various liquids, espe- cially the acidic ones. Citrus juice, vinegar and common household cleaning products can cause dam- age to certain natural stone coun- tertops, such as marbles.” Spills should be wiped up immediately. Cleaning the stone should be done with specially formulated cleaning products designed for natural stone, Viana said. Also he suggested keep- ing stone away from toiletry products which may contain chemicals that damage stone. Keeping products on a mat or in a decorative basket can June 7 Wisconsin Stone Summit: 12 Business Axioms Universal Granite and Marble Oak Creek, WI June 28 New York Stone Summit: Analyzing Shop Performance M S International Brentwood, NY July 26 Kansas Stone Summit: 12 Business Axioms M S International Lenexa, KS September 20 Indiana Stone Summit: Know Your Business Global Granite and Marble Indianapolis, IN October 11 New Jersey Stone Summit: 12 Business Axioms Artistic Tile Secaucus, NJ November 1 Arizona Stone Summit: Stone Shop Administration Arizona Tile Tucson, AZ The Natural Stone Institute is a trade association representing every aspect of the natural stone industry. The current membership exceeds 2,000 members in over 50 countries. The association offers a wide array of technical and training resources, professional develop- ment opportunities, regulatory advocacy, and networking events. Two prominent publications — the Dimension Stone Design Manual and Building Stone Magazine — raise awareness within the natural stone industry and in the design community for best practices and uses of natural stone. Learn more at www.naturalstoneinstitute.org. STONE –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 74 TileLetter | February 2018