Care & Maintenance

Cleaners

HMK R55 | Intensive Cleaner/Grout Film Remover

A superior pH 8.5 neutral cleaner for use on all new and existing interior and exterior natural and cast stone, agglomerate, and ceramic tile, regardless of surface finish. Especially formulated to remove cement/grout film residue, light construction dirt, soil, and light wax coats. Recommended for polished and honed surfaces since it does not contain acid and will not etch finishes. Use HMK¨ R80 for heavy wax removal.

HMK R63 | Concrete Film Remover

An extra strength, fast-acting, dilute acid type cleaner for all new and existing rough/textured interior and exterior natural and cast stone (use the milder HMK® R69 Interior Stone Cleaner if acid fumes are a concern). HMK® R63 thoroughly removes construction dirt, grout residue, lime deposit, efflorescence, and rust from all surfaces. Not for use on polished/glazed surfaces. Avoid contact with metal; acid/fumes will cause etching.

Protection

HMK S34 | Silicone Impregnator

A silicone base impregnator of highest stability against dirt, water, oil, and alkali infiltration. For interior and exterior use on all natural and cast stone and regardless of surface finish. Surface treated with HMK® S34 is 98% vapor permeable, UV resistant, and leaves a natural appearance. Not effective on non-absorbing surfaces.

HMK S42 | Exterior Color Enhancing Impregnator

HMK® S42 is a new, ready-to-use and solvent-based color- enhancing impregnator, mainly for exterior applications. By reducing water and dirt penetration, regular maintenance is facilitated. Algae, fungus and other problems occurring with exterior installations are reduced. Color enhancement will bring out the grain and structure of the stone. HMK® S42 is especially suited for wall and floor surfaces. Vapor permeation is only slightly diminished.

Maintenance

HMK P19 | Marble and Granite Polish

A modified silicone wax base conditioner and maintenance cleaner/polish/protector for interior (conditional exterior) use on floors, walls, and stairways for all polished mineral surfaces. HMK® P19 enhances the stone’s color and texture. It further protects against dirt and water infiltration and creates a high luster and slip retardant surface. P19 is also recommended for countertops, shower stalls, fireplaces, etc. It also protects impregnators, sealers, does not smear or scuff, and beautifully maintains brass, bronze, and aluminum.

HMK P21 | Polishing Paste

A modified silicone wax conditioner and maintenance cleaner/polish/protector for use on all interior (conditional exterior) polished mineral surfaces, agglomerate, and glazed ceramic tile. Especially indicated for use on counters, vanities, bar tops, windowsills, fireplaces, art objects, etc. Repeated use enhances the stone’s color and texture, and protects against dirt and water infiltration. HMK® P21 Polishing Paste does not yellow or cloud, is UV resistant, and is highly permeable. It also protects impregnators and sealers, does not smear, and beautifully maintains brass, bronze, and aluminum.

Refinishing

HMK R52 | Poultice/Stain Remover

For use on all new and existing interior and exterior natural and cast stone, agglomerate, terrazzo, ceramic/Porcelain tile and cement surfaces, regardless of surface finish. Comes in paste form; ready to apply. Very effective in removing wax, oil and silicone stains left behind from grouting/sealants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does our stone come from?

We import stone from over thirty different countries all over the world.
How often should I seal my granite/marble countertops?

We will seal your countertops free of charge after we install them in your home. We recommend that you seal them yourself every 1 -2 years based on what material you choose. We also recommend HMK stone sealing products for sealing and daily maintenance of your countertop.

How much does my stone weigh?

1 1/4” (3cm) thick stone weighs approx 17 lbs per sqft.
3/4” (2cm) thick stone weighs approx 11 lbs per sqft.
Stone tile weighs approx 5 lbs per sq.ft.

What makes one stone more expensive than the other?

The price of stone is determined by a number of different factors. One of the first being the difficulty in quarrying a particular stone. Some stones are much deeper in the ground than others and therefore require special machines, more time and man power to extract from the ground. Another factor is what part of the world the stone is coming from: the costs in that country for shipping, taxes, customs etc. The availability of a stone is another factor in price. It is possible for a quarry to run out of a specific stone. When quarries see that they are running low on a particular material the price goes up.
Does the 3/4” thick granite hold up as well as the thicker 1 1/4” ?

Yes, 3/4″ thick stone is an industry standard. The only time you may be advised to use the thicker stone is if you have a very long stretch that has a sink cut out that or if you have an island/peninsula that has a large overhang. You may need extra support under the thinner stone where you would not need it for the thicker.

Are seams visible?

Yes, seams are visible on your countertop. We make an effort to place the pieces as close together as possible and bond them together with color-coordinated glue. A well executed seam will be smooth but can be felt.

How many seams will my countertop have?

The number of sea ms vary from project to project. The shape and size of your countertops will be the determining factor. When our staff goes out to your home to measure they will show you on your layout exactly where the seams will be placed. In general, pieces longer than 96” will need to be seamed, especially if there is a sink or cooktop cut out on that piece.

What is the difference between Honed and Polished?

Honed finishes are not as shiny as polished finishes. They are more of a matte finish and lighter in color. Polished stones have a high gloss finish. Stones that are polished can be honed and vice a versa in our shop.

Can I use marble on my kitchen countertops?

Yes, millions of kitchens are done in marble BUT it is important to realize the different qualities that marble possess. Marble, in general, is a softer and more porous material. We recommend Vermont Marble which is stronger than typical marbles.