Q. We installed a marble shower wall, and the contractor used an acid to clean it. We had it professionally repolished, but it keeps getting etched after we take a shower. What’s causing the etching and how do we correct it?   A. If you are... Read More

Q. A tile merchant told me that you re-seal polished marble yearly and after 2 to 3 years you have to have it acid washed. Considering marble for bathtub surround walls and floor. Is travertine any less care? Live in hard water area.     A. The... Read More

Q. Is granite sensitive to acids? A. Unlike marble, granite is not a calcite based stone and is not generally vulnerable to acids. However, some stones, even though they are marketed as granite, may in fact have calcium in their makeup. Furthermore,... 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

I will assume you are not cleaning it with acid cleaners. There is a possibility that there is some residual acid in the grout or the pores of the stone that bleeds out when you take a shower. Try rinsing the shower wall with a solution of baking... Read More

Since the acid has etched the marble, the etching will require honing and polishing to remove. Call in a professional stone specialist, since this work can be quite difficult. TIP Etch marks caused by acid bathroom cleaner can penetrate very deep in... Read More

Most janitorial supply stores carry non-acid bowl cleaners. Many bathroom cleaners also contain acids and these should be avoided around marble. TIP Household bleach also makes a good toilet bowl cleaner and should not etch the marble but if you do... Read More

The acid has etched your marble, which will now have to be polished or (possibly) honed. Depending on how deep the marble is etched it may require a heavy grinding. Perform a test in a small area to determine what grit diamond will be required. Make... Read More

Acids generally will not harm granite but hydrofluoric acid is the exception. Hydrofluoric acid will etch polished granite as well as glass. Never use HF on polished granite. Read MSDS and label directions. FYI Hydrofluoric acid is a common chemical... Read More

All acids should be used with caution on any stone surfaces. Granite is one stone type where most acids will not harm it. However, stay away from hydrochloric acid (HCL). HCL can deposit salts in the granites pores if not rinsed throughly. I would... Read More