The dog days of summer are barking and Labor Day is just around the bend, signaling the end of yet another epic season in the sun. But before you give your flamingo pool float one last hurrah, take a break with some home maintenance prep for the changing season ahead. Why worry now about what you can do next month? Well, as it turns out, some home maintenance tasks are best tackled during these hotter summer days, before temperatures start dipping.
Which brings us to the natural stone all around your home. “After a summer filled with nonstop grilling fests, family gatherings, and just general outdoor fun and wear and tear, it’s important to properly clean natural stone around your home—whether it’s outdoor granite countertops, stone walkways, or patios—to prevent food, dirt, and oil stains from setting in and leaving permanent marks,” says James Freeman, chief operating officer of Colonial Marble & Granite.
If you’re a big DIY’er, start by dusting off stone surfaces, because abrasive materials such as dirt or sand (carried home from weekend getaways) can cause damage. Avoid using harsh cleaning products on natural stone; instead, choose a gentle cleanser with a neutral pH (preferably without soap, which causes streaks and film) and a soft cloth. For a longer-lasting finish and better protection against stains and grime, consider applying a water-based penetrating sealer.
However, for more serious stains, you’ll probably want to call in a professional stone maintenance company to restore your stone. Home Advisor says you can expect to spend anywhere between $400 and $1,100, depending on the level of grime.
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