A stone fireplace is a beautiful piece that increases the value of your home. Stone allows for multiple styles, from classic to modern designs. A stone fireplace is an investment that you probably want to maintain in the best possible condition. The longer, the better. To that end, it is important to know how to look after it and clean it properly.
How Can You Best Protect Your Fireplace?
Because stone fireplaces can stain easily, it is highly recommended to seal them in order to cover their pores. Open pores may absorb liquids, such as coffee or wine, causing staining and discoloration. Sealing is a great way to protect your stone fireplace because it preserves its appearance and increases its resistance. If you decide to apply a sealant, you need to clean the fireplace first.
How to Clean Stone Fireplace
1. If your fireplace is sealed, warm water and a cloth should be enough to clean the soot accumulated on the stone. If it’s not sealed, you can use a brush to remove soot and debris first.
2. Then use a solution. Mix liquid soap, detergent, and some ammonia in hot water and spread it on the surface of the fireplace. After it dries, use a scrub brush to remove it. Avoid chemical cleaning products, especially flammable or abrasive ones.
3. If these methods don’t work, you can dissolve half a cup of Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) in a bucket containing one gallon of hot water and clean the surface with it.
What Not to Do When You Clean Stone Fireplace
– Don’t begin your cleaning operation until you have removed all ash from the fireplace.
– Don’t use flammable products to clean your stone fireplace, as their residue is a fire hazard.
– Don’t use bleach except in very low concentrations, and only if other cleaning methods fail, as it may dull your stone fireplace.
– Don’t use cleaning solutions before testing them in less visible spots. Wait until they dry to see if it’s safe to start cleaning the entire fireplace with it.
– Don’t clean the fireplace when heated, not to mention in use.
Additional Help
You’d rather let a cleaning professional take care of your stone fireplace? TalkLocal can help by putting you in touch with local maid services that can get the job done. We do this for free.
