Stone & Tile Restoration

There are several companies who promote a two step recrystallization process. The first step uses the standard recrystallization chemical and then is followed by an application of a second chemical containing waxes which places a higher shine on the... Read More

The recrystallization method has been a topic of great controversy since its introduction to the United States in the late sixties and early seventies. There are several people who feel this process is detrimental to the marble and there are those... Read More

Most bricks are made of material known as magnasite. The magnasite has a shelf life of about one year. If you have bricks that are made of magnasite and they are older than one year you risk the chance of them falling apart. There are newer bricks... Read More

These terms can be quite confusing. Generally grinding is the removal of large amounts of material from the surface of the stone. Grinding would be performed to remove lippage and to flatten a floor. Grinding grits are typically 60 grit and below.... Read More

Steam can be used effectively on stone surfaces but be careful if you use any chemicals such as alkalies. Rinse the surface throughly if using alkaline cleaners. TIP Another good method for removing caulking, tar or chewing gum from granite surfaces... Read More

The use of a pressure washer on marble should be avoided. Pressure washing forces water into the pores of the stone and can cause the development of efflorescence. If you must use a pressure washer make sure that the operator is skilled. Do not use a... Read More

Terrazzo is over 75% marble chips and therefore can be maintained the same way as marble. Hone the terrazzo floor to at least a 400 grit and then polish with a marble polishing powder. The terrazzo can be maintained with powder or it can be... Read More

No, slate does not polish very well. The only way to put any kind of shine on slate is to apply a coating. There are several brands of acrylic coatings designed for slate and other stone. Check with your local janitorial supply or one of the stone... Read More

In other words how can I grow algae and molds on the new wall? For this question I contacted a bryolgist at a major university. Bryologly is the study of molds and fungus. He gave me the following formula. Prepare the following mixture and paint it... Read More

You bet. Creme of tartar can be added to the grout mixture which will make it dry faster. (That’s right, it is the same creme of tartar that you buy at the grocery store. ) TIP There are several pre-packaged mixtures that are designed to fill... Read More