Q. The floor of my shower stall is covered with grouted sliced stones on mesh. The contractor sealed the floor with a "wet-enhancing" sealer about 3 years ago. I've noticed that the lighter stones have become rust-colored. (We have hard water... Read More

Q. I understand that some stones are more porous than others and one application of sealer/impregnator may not be enough. But how will I know?A. On granites, at least two applications of sealer are recommended, with at least two hours in between... Read More

Think Twice Before Using a Silicon-Based Impregnator on a Historic Limestone Building Limestone, a calcium-based sedimentary stone, is a building material that has been utilized for centuries. The Pentagon, the Lincoln Memorial, The Empire State... Read More

Customize Your Silicon Impregnator Application Methods Different types of natural stone have unique properties, so restoration and protection methods will vary from one stone to the next. When it comes to silicon impregnators, here’s what you... Read More

All silicon-based impregnators should be tested first in an inconspicuous area. We have found that certain limestones and an occasional granite will become permanently dark. Apply the impregnator and wait at least 24 hours before making a... 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

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

It depends on what kind of green marble you have. I would guess that the green marble in your bathroom is an Asian green. If this is the case, you will never get a deep shine on this marble. These stones characteristically have a clouded shine. If,... 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

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