Calcite

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Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is calcite a durable material for countertops and flooring? 
    Calcite is relatively a soft and porous material compared to other natural stones, such as granite or quartz. It  can be used for countertops and floors, it should be handled with additional care to avoid scratching and  damage. It requires proper sealing from regular intervals of time. 
  2. Can calcite be used for bathroom walls or floors? 
    Calcite can be used for countertops, vanity tops, and wall cladding in bathroom design. However, certain  types of calcite are susceptible to etching from acidic substances often present in cleaners. Make sure to use  pH-balanced cleaners for your calcite surface. 
  3. Can calcite be used in outdoor applications? 
    Calcite is not a suitable material for outdoor applications due to its sensitivity to weathering and it can be  damaged by exposure to the environmental impact. 
  4. How does calcite react to temperature changes? 
    Calcite is not resistant to extreme temperature changes. Hence, it is better to avoid exposing it to sudden  changes in heat or cold to protect from potential damage. 
  5. Do all calcite surfaces require sealing? 
    Calcite is a soft stone. It requires more frequent sealing than quartzite or granite. How frequent the stone  requires sealing depends on the type of calcite used. Some variants might be more porous and require  regular sealing to protect against stains, while others may be less porous and need less maintenance. 
  6. Are there fire safety concerns when using calcite in commercial spaces? 
    Calcite is generally non-combustible which makes it an ideal choice for various commercial applications.
  7. Can calcite be used for flooring in retail spaces? 
    Yes, calcite can be used for flooring in retail spaces, but one must pay attention to the type of calcite and the  level of foot traffic. Regular maintenance and sealing should be a practice. 
  8. Is calcite suitable for flooring in a residential home with pets? 
    Calcite is more susceptible to scratching, so homeowners with pets must take precautionary measures to  avoid damage and to maintain the stone’s appearance.

 

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CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Cleaning: 

  • Opt for a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser or a neutral detergent when cleaning calcite surfaces. 
  • Avoid acidic cleansers, as calcite can corrode when exposed to acidic cleaning agents.
  • Swiftly clean the spills, particularly if they involve acidic substances like citrus juices or vinegar. 

Avoiding Abrasive Cleaners: Refrain from using harsh cleansers or abrasive scouring pads on calcite surfaces, as they have the potential to create scratches and diminish the surface’s luster.

Sealing: Depending on the particular type of calcite and its finish, applying a sealer might prove advantageous to shield the surface. Seek guidance from the manufacturer or supplier for recommendations on suitable sealants for your calcite surface. 

Preventing Scratches: Use cutting boards and abstain from cutting directly on the calcite surface to avert scratches. 

Regular Dusting: Consistently dust the surface with a soft dry cloth to avoid the accumulation of debris and dirt. 

Protection from Heat: Refrain from directly placing hot pans or cookware on calcite surfaces, as excessive heat can result in damage. Always use trivets or hot pads to safeguard the surface. 

Avoiding Heavy Impact: Exercise caution with heavy or sharp objects in proximity to calcite surfaces to forestall chips or cracks. 

Professional Maintenance: For in-depth cleaning and maintenance, contemplate engaging a professional stone restoration service. They possess the expertise to clean, polish, and rejuvenate the surface to its initial splendor. 

Prompt Stain Management: In the event of a spill, particularly involving substances like wine, coffee, or oil, promptly blot the area with a soft, clean cloth to prevent staining. 

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of the use of strong chemicals, bleach, or cleaners containing ammonia on calcite surfaces. 

Regular Check-ups: Conduct periodic examinations of the surface to identify any signs of damage or wear, promptly addressing issues to stave off further deterioration.

How to Clean Unusual Stains

Grease: You can use a paper towel to remove grease. Then, using a damp sponge along with some dish soap, wipe the area. After cleaning with water, dry off with a towel. 

Ink: In order to remove the ink, use an absorbent tissue. Then wipe the area by rubbing a cotton ball damped with some amount of alcohol. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth. 

Red wine: To absorb the red wine, use an absorbent towel. Then, mix equal volumes of white vinegar and water. Apply the solution with a sponge and allow to settle for a few minutes, rinse with water and rub the area dry. 

Coffee: Using a tissue, blot up the coffee. Then, combine one part baking soda with two parts water and apply the mixture to the stain using a sponge. After allowing the solution to settle for a few minutes, rinse with water and rub the area dry. 

BASIC GUIDELINES FOR MAINTAINING CALCITE COUNTERTOPS: 

  1. Use Cutting Boards: Use cutting boards for cutting to protect your calcite countertops from scratches. 
  2. Avoid Heavy Impact: Even though calcite is durable, it is not indestructible. Prevent chips and fractures by refraining from dropping heavy objects. Be careful while moving hefty objects.
  3. Use Trivets and Hot Pads: While calcite is heat resistant. Protect your calcite from intense heat by placing trivets or hot pads under hot cookware. Changes in temperature leads to thermal shock causing potential cracks in the material. 
  4. Be Mindful of Edges: Avoid leaning on or placing heavy pressure on the edges as intense pressure can cause chipping around the edges. Treat them gently to prevent damage. 
  5. Keep Sharp Objects Away: Store sharp objects like knives and utensils with pointed tips away from the countertop’s surface to minimize the risk of accidental scratching. 
  6. Clean Spills Promptly: While calcite is resistant to stains. It is better to promptly clean up spills to prevent staining. Acidic liquids can cause discoloration unattended. 
  7. Regular Maintenance: Simple cleaning and maintenance are adequate for calcite surfaces. Always inspect your countertops for minor chips or scratches and address them promptly to prevent them from deteriorating. 
  8. Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaners, as they can scratch the calcite surface. Stick to mild soap and water or pH-balanced cleaners when cleaning your calcite surfaces.
  9.  Protect During Renovations: If you want to do kitchen renovations or any construction work near your calcite countertops, take precautions to protect them from debris and heavy tools.

Mistakes to avoid while dealing with Calcite Countertops 

Exposing to High Heat: Calcite is sensitive to heat, so avoid placing hot pans or pots directly on the countertop. Always use trivets or hot pads to protect the surface from heat damage. 

Ignoring Stains: Promptly clean up spills on calcite countertops to prevent stains. Ignoring stains or allowing them to sit for extended periods can make them more challenging to remove.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Tools: Abrasive cleaning pads or scrubbers can scratch the surface of calcite. Stick to soft cloths, sponges, or non-abrasive cleaning tools to avoid damaging the countertop. 

Placing Heavy Objects Directly: Avoid dropping or placing heavy objects directly onto the countertop, as calcite can chip or crack upon impact. 

Excessive Force or Pressure: Applying excessive force or pressure in one area, especially near edges or corners, can lead to damage. Be mindful of how you handle heavy items or apply force during cleaning. 

Not Using Cutting Boards: While calcite is durable, using knives directly on the countertop can scratch the surface. Always use cutting boards to protect the countertop from potential damage. 

Neglecting Manufacturer Guidelines: Each type of calcite may have specific care and maintenance instructions. Neglecting to follow the guidelines can lead to unintentional damage or void warranties. 

Ignoring Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty of calcite countertops. Neglecting routine care can result in a dull appearance and the accumulation of debris or stains.