Onyx

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is onyx more durable than other natural stones?
    Onyx is delicate and more porous than other natural stones like granite or quartzite, making it more prone to scratching, etching, and staining if not maintained promptly. However, the longevity of onyx surfaces largely depends on proper care and maintenance practices.
  1. Can onyx be used for kitchen countertops?
    While onyx can bring a vibrant look to your kitchen countertops, it requires careful maintenance due to its susceptibility to scratching and staining. It is best suited for areas with lighter use or as a decorative accent rather than a high-traffic workspace like a kitchen countertop.
  1. Is onyx suitable for bathroom surfaces?
    Yes, onyx is used for variegated bathroom installations such as vanity tops, shower walls, and bathtub surrounds. Its translucent properties can create a beautiful and luxurious ambiance, especially when the surface is backlit.
  1. What is a backlit in onyx surfaces?
    In simple words, backlit in onyx refers to the process of installing lighting behind the surface often used to create a stunning visual effect. The stone is translucent to opaque, allowing light to pass through and the light rays illuminate the stone’s unique veining, colors, and crystalline properties.
  1. How to clean and maintain onyx surfaces?
    Onyx surfaces must be cleaned regularly with a pH-neutral stone cleaner and water using a soft cloth or sponge. Also, the surface has to be sealed periodically for deep protection.
  1. Is onyx expensive?
    Yes, onyx is a pricey material compared to granite or quartz due to its rarity and unique aesthetic properties. Even if prices can marginally vary depending on factors such as the stone’s grade and dimension, it still tends to be expensive.
  1. Why does installing onyx surfaces require special considerations?It’s essential to work only with experienced professionals who understand the unique properties of this expensive material. Proper support and reinforcement are necessary, especially for larger and more complex installations, or areas with backlighting. 
  1. Can onyx surfaces be easily scratched?
    Yes, they can. Onyx is a softer natural stone and is more susceptible to scratches. Even a minor scratch mark can destroy the stone’s aesthetic appeal, especially if backlit.

Care and Maintenance Guidelines

Regular Cleaning: Clean the surface every day. You can prepare a homemade cleaning solution by mixing warm water and a mild detergent, then dry the surface using a soft cloth or sponge.

Clean Spills Promptly: Clean up spills as quickly as possible to prevent further staining. Even though porcelain surfaces are stain-resistant, substances like wine, coffee, or acidic liquids may cause discoloration if left to sit for a while.

Seal Grout Lines: Apart from the surface, consider sealing grout lines for your porcelain tiled surfaces using a high-quality sealer to prevent any kind of staining or penetration of moisture.

Avoid Acid Cleaners: Acid cleaning is rarely required and is not usually recommended to thoroughly clean a marble installation if the cleaning is done promptly. Protective measures must be taken if you’re using acid-based cleaners since they can severely damage the grout lines.

Test Your Cleaning Products: Start by testing a cleaning product in an inconspicuous area before applying it to a larger portion. Using properly designated products is highly recommended.

Don’t Use Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaning brushes or harsh chemicals as they can adversely affect the surface finish. Use a pH-balanced cleaner for regular maintenance.

Prevent Impact Damage: Be aware of dropping heavy objects or causing damage from external impacts, which can lead to chipping or cracking your surface.

Basic Guidelines to Maintain Porcelain Countertops

Use Cutting Boards: Even if your porcelain countertops cannot get scratched easily, using cutting boards/pads in kitchen countertops can add an extra layer of protection to your surface.

Avoid Heavy Impact: Take care to avoid falling heavy objects or causing unusual impact damage to the surface, as this can lead to chipping or cracking.

Watch the Edges: Avoid leaning on or placing heavy pressure onto the edge corners, intense pressure can chip or scratch the surface.

Clean Spills Promptly: Clean up spills promptly to prevent staining further. While porcelain is stain-resistant, some liquids like coffee, wine, or acidic liquids can discolor the surface if left to sit spills for too long.

Keep Sharp Objects Away: Keep sharp pointed objects like knives or forks away from the surface to minimize the risk of unusual accidental damage.

Clean Everyday: Keep your countertops spotless by cleaning with warm water and a mild detergent regularly. Use a soft cloth or sponge to remove loose debris, grime, or spills left. 

Protect During Renovations: If you’re considering a kitchen renovation or any construction closer to your porcelain countertops, exercise caution by taking proactive measures like covering the surface using a mat.

How to Clean Unusual Stains

Grease: Try removing the stain using a paper towel. Take a damp sponge along with little dish soap, and wipe the affected area thoroughly. Dry the surface after cleaning with water.

Ink: Remove the ink using an absorbent tissue. Then, wipe the area by rubbing a cotton ball damped with some alcohol. Rinse the surface with water and dry using a soft cloth.

Red Wine: Use an absorbent towel to clean the spill. Mix little vinegar in water, apply the solution with a sponge, and allow to sit for a few minutes. Rinse the surface with water and keep it dry using a neat cloth.

Coffee: Take a tissue to absorb the spill. Mix one part baking soda with two parts water and apply the mixture using a sponge. Allow it to settle for a few minutes, rinse with clean water and keep the surface dry.