What To Do About Cracking, Peeling Marble Coating

Q. The resin coating of our Knoll Saarinen marble top table has been cracking and peeling for the past year. We don't know what to do. Any advice?

 

A. Some manufacturers use resins to create a topical polish, which look amazing... at first. However, resins become brittle with time, especially when exposed to UV light.

 

At this point you have two choices. The first would be to strip the resin off and reapply more. The second would be to strip the resin off and have the top polished naturally. The strippers needed to do this can be pretty nasty, so it may be something you want to have done by a professional stone restoration contractor. 

 

Consider the pros and cons of your choices:

 

Resins do provide a layer of protection. But, application of resins can be tricky. If the application is not done properly, bubbling may occur or the resins may being to peel again shortly after it sets. Even if the application is done properly, you will ultimately experience the same issue. (If you do elect to go with reapplication of resin consider moving the table to a darker area to avoid direct sunlight.) 

 

We always prefer a natural polish on marble. To find a prescreened, qualified contractor in your area contact us. Keep in mind that all marble is acid sensitive and without the additional protection given by a topical finish, etching (chemical stone damage) can occur. You will need to be use special care to keep the polished finish unblemished:

• Avoid spills of acidic liquids, such as orange juice, wine, and vinegar. 
• Use coasters.
• Clean up spills as quickly as possible.
• Use only proper cleaning products, such as pH neutral cleaners designated safe for use on natural stone.