Despite its exceptionally dense structure (water absorption only 0.07 %), Estremoz Corrente is acid-sensitive as a calcite marble. With a Mohs hardness of 3–4 the stone requires conscious care and consistent sealing. These points should be consciously factored into the material choice — Estremoz Corrente is a deliberately chosen design material with a classic Mediterranean character, not a care-free all-rounder.
For interior applications we recommend careful sealing on a silane or polysiloxane basis at first installation. With the low water absorption of 0.07 %, Estremoz Corrente is practically non-absorbent — the sealer serves as additional insurance against acid etch marks. On polished interior surfaces we recommend refreshing every 1–2 years, in heavily used areas every 6–12 months. This markedly more frequent refreshing than with hard stones is typical for marble.
Daily care is carried out with a pH-neutral natural stone cleaner and a soft cloth or microfibre mop. Clear warm water is usually sufficient. Acidic cleaners (vinegar, citric acid, sanitary cleaners, descalers) are to be STRICTLY avoided — they attack the marble immediately and leave dull etch marks that can only be removed by professional re-grinding. Cola, wine, tomato sauce and citrus fruits can also leave etch marks on untreated surfaces — in the event of spillages, dab up immediately with a dry cloth (do not wipe).
For kitchen worktops Estremoz Corrente is suitable only with reservations — it is not fully acid-resistant and not fully cut- and scratch-proof (Mohs hardness 3–4 versus 7+ for granite/quartzite). Heat resistance is given, but hot pans should not be set down directly (use trivets). For intensively used professional kitchens we recommend alternative hard stones. For an elegant designer kitchen with a classic Mediterranean character and careful maintenance, however, Estremoz Corrente can be very coherent — particularly for wabi-sabi concepts with conscious acceptance of patina.
For bathrooms and wellness areas Estremoz Corrente is a very fitting choice — the warm white-cream material effect with the characteristic vein bands brings a distinctive Mediterranean atmosphere. Where there is direct water loading (shower walls, bath surrounds, washstands), careful sealing is mandatory and acidic sanitary cleaners are to be strictly avoided. The surface finishes available from stock are listed in the »Finishes« block further down.
For external applications, Estremoz Corrente, like all marbles, is recommended only with reservations — polished surfaces are not permanently as stable outdoors as with granite or quartzite. UV exposure and weathering lead to visible loss of gloss over the years. In addition, calcite marbles react particularly sensitively to acid precipitation. The ideal field of use is clearly the high-quality interior.
