Care and Maintenance

Q: Just had a new marble flooring installed (approximately 2500 sq. ft). Contractor did not mention polishing or sealing--job is now over..just told me to use water to clean the floor. I have since tried to find some info----do you recommend... Read More

Q: How can I remove etching that has formed on my Lagos Azul floor from cat urine? I cleaned it up pretty quickly but I see etching. A: Etching is the result of any acid coming into contact with the stone. Unfortunately the only way... Read More

Q: What is the average cost per sq ft for shining or polishing honed travertine in a large flat surface? A: Cost is going to vary on many factors. It will depend on how dull the floor is and how many steps will be needed to achieve the desired... Read More

Q: I just purchased an extremely light colored travertine slate for my front room, but would like a richer, darker color for the slate. Since it has not yet been sealed, can the slate be "colored" or "stained" before it is installed? A: Are you... Read More

Q: I'm trying to determine what products to purchase for a travertine shower with pepple floor, and a marble countertop. How often is stone-safe cleanser intended to be used? And what is the difference between pH neutral cleaner and other stone... Read More

Q: We purchased and had some beautiful light tan/beige marble installed on our master bathroom floor, 42" glass enclosed (2 sides) shower walls and tub enclosure. After five years, where we attempted to keep the shower walls clean, there is a... Read More

  Efflorescence - Removal and Prevention   By Frederick M. Hueston www.stoneforensics.com The crystallization of soluble salts in Historic masonry causes severe deterioration of the substrate. This crystallization is called... Read More

Q. Is there a way to repair a quartz (cambria product) burn mark? A. The problem with a burn mark in the Cambria (or any other engineered stone or Solid Surface) is the burn mark is in the resin in the material. That is what burned. Depending... Read More

I personally recommend Grout Perfect (www.groutperfect.com) though there are many out there. It is a superior product, easy to use ,and has benefits that go beyond just looking pretty, such as constant acting mildewcides and more. Fred... Read More

Q. Your website and articles are extremely helpful. I now know that you don't have to seal travertine. Here is my problem; my employee applied sealer to filled travertine and didn't wipe off the excess. I spoke to a rep at the sealer company and used... Read More