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

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

Q. We have mold buildup in grout joints and surface has film on it. What is best to clean mold and remove film from surface?   A. There are several cleaners that will remove the mold but you must be careful to choose one that will not damage the... Read More

By: Mike Marsoun NuLife Stone Care (www.nulifestonecare.com.au) I have noticed an alarming trade practice here in Australia which desperately needs to be addressed. The root of this problem is the same as in the US where you will find ceramic... Read More

Graffiti Removal Procedure for Stone, Masonry, and Tile Surfaces By Frederick M. Hueston, www.stoneforensics.com If your beautiful building, wall, or other surface has just become the unintended canvas for graffiti, your first reaction might be to... 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

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

If a stone fountain has a copper basin, chances are the stone may get green discoloration. The hard, green deposits are a combination of calcium deposits from the water and copper from the basin. The easiest way to remove them is to use a pressure... Read More

This is a problem in northern climates where de-icing salts are used. During the winter months deicing salts are used to melt the snow and ice. When the weather warms, the salts are dissolved and carried into the granite. When the granite dries, the... Read More

Q. I have an (intentionally) distressed marble seat in my shower. After years of use, there is a build up of white on top of it. How do I get ride of it? Thanks.   A. White residue on the top of stone can be attributed to several things. Ask... Read More