Stone & Tile Restoration

Yes, cracks can be repaired. Depending on the width of the crack, it can be filled with a polyester resin. If the crack is small, clean it thoroughly with acetone, making sure to remove all dirt; a dental pick may prove useful here. After the crack... Read More

The tack strips can be removed by cutting the nails flush with the terrazzo. A hack saw blade can be wedged under the wooden strip and the nail can be cut. A faster method would be to use a diamond saw blade mounted on a rightangle grinder. The shaft... Read More

Settling cracks are common in newly constructed homes. These cracks may continue to develop for over a year. I would suggest replacing the tiles after approximately one year, or until the settling subsides. Be sure to purchase extra tiles—and... Read More

Several grout cleaners are available at your home center, hardware store or janitorial supply store. These cleaners are acidic, so caution is advised. Once the grout is cleaned I would suggest applying a good grout sealer. You may also want to... Read More

Although there are several coatings that will provide added slip resistance, there is, unfortunately, a trade-off. Coating the stone will increase maintenance requirements, but if safety is an issue, it’s worth considering. Contact a stone... Read More

For daily and light cleaning, use a good stone soap, which will not harm the gold or brass fixtures. For heavier-duty cleaning, remove the fixtures or protect them with masking tape. Be careful when using acidic cleaners, since acids will tarnish the... Read More

The green growth you see is probably algae. Algae usually grows were there is abundant moisture. My guess would be that the tile stays wet after a rainstorm, allowing the algae to grow. To clean it, prepare a solution of bleach and water; about one... Read More

This white cast is very common with Mexican tile. Hard water and chlorine from your swimming pool are depositing a white salt on the surface. To remove this white haze, a mild acid washing is necessary. Use a mild acid such as sulfamic acid ... Read More

Mexican tile is a clay terra cotta-type product, and is very absorbent. In order to remove the oil a poultice is necessary. Refer to “Stain Removal Guide for Stone” and carry out the procedure it describes. If the stain is not removed after four... Read More

Has the tile been sealed? It sounds as if it hasn’t been. Clean the floor thoroughly and apply several coats of a good-quality sealer. If the floor has been sealed, then it does not have enough sealer. Clean it and apply additional sealer. Read More