How to care for cast stone.
Cast stone is naturally porous. Ours is wet cast and ships sealed, so the surface has low porosity. Looking after it is simple: wipe it with a soft cloth and warm water, and reseal it every five years indoors or every year outdoors. Small differences in color and texture are part of the material, and below we show how to tell them apart from a real problem.
Daily care.
Day-to-day, treat cast stone like fine furniture. A soft cloth and warm water handle the vast majority of cleaning. Stronger cleaners shorten the sealer’s life and dull the finish.
- Routine cleaning: soft cloth and warm water
- Heavier stains: mild detergent, neutral pH only
- Use felt pads under decor; place candles on trays
- Avoid acidic or alkaline products entirely (no vinegar, lemon, bleach, oven cleaner)
- Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool
When to reseal.
Your surround ships sealed. Reseal it every five years indoors and every year outdoors. We recommend Sherwin-Williams H&C Hydro-Defend Water-Based Concrete Waterproofer, a penetrating, water-based sealer. Resealing keeps the surface resisting stains and water.
Apply it to a clean, dry surround in a well-ventilated room, following the directions on the label. Avoid heat for 24 hours after sealing.
Outdoor pieces take sun, rain, and frost all year, which is why they get a fresh coat every year.
What’s normal vs. a defect.
Cast stone is a hand-mixed, hand-poured material. Some variation is intrinsic. Other things signal a real problem. The line between them:
Hairline crazing is a normal characteristic of cast stone, not a defect (same as in natural limestone). Our manufacturer warranty covers defects in material and workmanship for the original purchaser. Call (971) 314-9530 with any warranty question. Most resolve in a single call.
How cast stone ages.
Cast stone doesn’t rot like wood or rust like metal. Over the years it takes on a soft patina that looks like character, not wear.
A surround is a permanent installation. It anchors and caulks into the wall the way built-in cabinetry does, and it stays with the house. Taking one down damages the piece, so treat placement as a decision you make once.