Variation of Color and Texture
All cast Natural Stone, Honed & Polished products have a degree of expected variation in shade, texture and veining. These characteristics are part of the stone, are to be expected and enhance the beauty of the fireplace mantels.

Minor Repairs
Occasionally during shipping or handling when installing a chip may occur, fortunately repairs are simple and all materials necessary are included with your mantel package. We send a two part mixture that when combined form a thick paste that creates a patching and caulking compound that matches the stonecast material and color. It is simple to apply for repairs as well as caulking seams.

Product Surface
Mantelpieces are sealed at the factory to protect the finish and help prevent stains. However, natural stone is a porous surface so stains may still develop if spills are not removed immediately. To further protect the grout joints and the surfaces it is strongly recommended that all new cast stone mantel products be resealed after installation.

Sealers
It is recommended that you use a high quality sealer that can be purchased from a local home center or tile and stone retailer. Test any new sealer on an inconspicuous spot to ensure that you are satisfied with the outcome before sealing the entire surface area. When apply a sealer make sure that all surfaces are clean and dry and then carefully follow the instructions provided on the product packaging.

Cleaning
Classic Stone should be cleaned regularly to avoid dust and dirt build up. You can easily clean the surface with just warm water and a clean white towel. If the surface has become soiled, you may use a solution of 1 part mild detergent, such as Formula 409, with 3 parts warm water. Thouroughly rinse the entire area with clean warm water to remove any detergent residue. If you require a stronger cleanser, retail home stores or stone and tile stores sell general purpose stone cleaners. Do not use products containing acids or alkaline as they may damage the surface of the stone.

Handling Spills
A spill should be cleaned up immediately by carefully blotting the spill with a paper towel or clean white rag. Do not ?wipe? a spill as this may force a potential stain deeper into the surface of the stone. A neutral cleanser and cold water can then be used to clean the surface. A persistent stain may be treated with a chemical poultice.

Preventing Common Stains

Cleaners
Do not use acidic or alkaline based products when cleaning stone as they may etch the surface. It is best to use a solution of warm water and mild detergent and a clean white cloth.

Plants
Even a sealed stone surface can get water damage so it is best not to place plants directly onto the stone.

Candles
It is very difficult to remove wax from the surface of cast stone so it is best to have a plate or other container under your candles to catch any dripping wax.

Smoke
Smoke can stain a cast stone surface so be careful with your fireplace ventilation system.

Food
Foods containing oils can stain cast stone so it is best to avoid placing food near the stone surface.

Beverages
Although liquid spills can generally be cleaned up without damage if caught early and blotted dry, it is best to prevent accidental spills by not placing cups or glasses containing liquid near stone surfaces.

Burnt Logs/Sparks
You should exercise caution when pushing burning logs around in a wood burning fireplace as sparks can etch the surface of the stone when they land. Also, when cleaning the inside of your fireplace, always cover the stone surface to avoid unsightly soot stains.