Stone & Tile Restoration

Lichens and mosses produce oxalic acid, which can destroy calcium-based stones. Since they are considered plants, they will also attract moisture, which can cause all kinds of problems with the stone, including spalling. They can also cause the stone... Read More

Generally, an acid will not cause any problem with an unglazed terra cotta. However be sure to use a acid specifically called for in the cleaning of terra cotta. Follow the directions carefully and be sure to rinse throughly to remove all acid... Read More

A common problem with limestones and some marble buildings is that they get a brownish yellow hue after cleaning. Most of the time we find that there is a high content of iron in the water used to clean the stone. Use a chelating agent in the wash... Read More

Suppose you have an interior granite wall that had some silicon caulking used in the grout joints. The silicon then caused staining along the grout edges. A poultice successfully removed the staining, but then later, the stains reappeared. What... Read More

Applying an impregnating sealer to stone will not make it waterproof. The idea of an impregnator is to make the stone water-resistant. In order to make the stone waterproof we would need to completely block the pores of the stone. If this is desired... Read More

It is completely safe to apply an impregnating sealer to stone kitchen countertops. According to a report by the USDA, once the sealer cures it is safe to use in food areas. Wait approximately 24 hours after application before preparing food in the... Read More

The stone should be completely dry for the sealer to work at its best. If the stone is still wet the sealer will not penetrate areas were water is present and therefore that portion of the stone will be unsealed. If the stone has some moisture(damp),... Read More

To properly apply an impregnator it is important that the stone is thoroughly saturated with sealer. If too much sealer is applied it will puddle on the surface. This excess should be removed, otherwise it will dry and form a sticky residue. If this... Read More

If you apply a silicone impregnator to the back of a tile before setting, this may cause a bonding problem. Since most setting mortars are water based they will want to repel the water. Use an epoxy-type setting material. TIP: Before setting any... Read More

When you should clean an old stone building will depend on which climate your building is located in. If located in the northern hemisphere never schedule cleaning during the winter months, since freezing temperatures can cause the stone to spall.... Read More