For over two decades, the Chinese construction industry has experienced remarkable growth, and with it, the stone industry has flourished. Decorative stone has emerged as the third-largest building material, following cement and steel, due to its unique advantages. It is now widely used in nearly all large-scale buildings, enhancing their aesthetic appeal by offering a natural, elegant, and luxurious appearance. However, as the use of decorative stone becomes more widespread, challenges and issues have also come to light.
One major problem lies in the traditional installation methods, such as using wet cement mortar without proper protective treatments for the stone. As a result, problems like water stains, efflorescence, and rust spots frequently appear. Many people mistakenly believe these are unavoidable and normal. While advanced protective materials and modern installation techniques have been developed to address these issues, some outdated practices persist. Some professionals still rely on old methods, and there's a lack of understanding regarding the proper use of new materials and technologies, which leads to ongoing damage to the stone surfaces.
Another significant issue is the neglect of regular cleaning and maintenance. Over 90% of stone cleaning tasks are handled by cleaning teams that were previously involved in other industries. These workers often lack the necessary knowledge about different types of stone and the appropriate care methods. They may not be familiar with specialized cleaning products or could even use inappropriate materials, such as bathroom cleaners or carpet washes, which can cause serious damage. This not only makes it harder to remove existing stains but can also lead to new issues, sometimes resulting in costly repairs—up to millions of yuan in a single project.
Additionally, the use of low-quality stone protectants has become a growing concern. While the idea of "prevention before treatment" is gaining traction, some inferior products have flooded the market. These products often come with attractive advertising but fail to consider the specific characteristics of the stone or the environment in which it is installed. Their application methods may seem simple, but they can lead to serious problems. For instance, old water stains may worsen, or large areas of yellowing or whitening might occur. Once these issues arise, they are often difficult to fix because the protective agents themselves complicate the remediation process.
In summary, while decorative stone offers great value in architecture, its long-term performance depends heavily on proper installation, maintenance, and the use of high-quality protective materials. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure that the beauty and durability of stone continue to be appreciated for years to come.
Tianjin Alcoa International Trade Co., Ltd. , https://www.tjalcoa.com