Stone & Tile Restoration

Pine-type cleaners are not recommended for polished stone surfaces . They contain harsh chemicals that can etch the stone. However, they work well, and are safe to use, on ceramic tile. TIP Let your customers know that few grocery stores carry... Read More

There are several products on the market that will remove mildew from tile, but they will also etch any polished marble surface. I suggest the following technique: Dilute one cup of household bleach in one-half gallon of cold water; add several drops... Read More

The problem you describe is very common with certain white marbles. Many marbles contain naturally occurring iron as part of their mineral make-up. When the stone is exposed to water for any length of time, its iron content begins to oxidize and turn... Read More

These white dull spots are probably etch marks caused by cosmetics, shaving lotion, etc. To remove them, the vanity will have to be polished, and, depending on the severity of the etch, possibly honed. I would recommend calling a stone professional,... Read More

Several products are available at the grocery store for removing soap scum, but they most likely are not safe for natural stone. Most soap scum removers contain acids which should not be used on marble surfaces. These cleaners work well on ceramic... Read More

A string mop is preferable to a sponge mop. A sponge mop has a very small surface area, and can easily pick up sand and debris which will scratch the floor. It has been shown that after several swipes with a sponge mop, you are only spreading the... Read More

The advice you received was correct. Most treated dust mops are treated with an oil-based chemical. Certain stones can absorb this oil, causing staining. Strongly recommend only untreated dust mops. TIP Also, tell your customers this: When purchasing... Read More

This a common condition, especially if the floor is new. When the marble is installed, it is set in a mortar base that is wet; as the moisture leaves the mortar, it carries with it dissolved salts which are deposited on the surface of the stone. This... Read More

It is probably not ruined, but removing this whitish haze can prove difficult. If the black marble is an agglomerate, chances are the alkaline stripper has attacked the polyester resin that binds it together. If so, the surface will have to be honed... Read More

First, you need to determine what is causing the yellow cast. If a carpet was at one time placed over the terrazzo, the jute or rubber backing may have bled color into the floor, turning it yellow. If the floor was waxed, the waxes will have yellowed... Read More