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This is a difficult problem, since water is usually required to refinish marble, and water will warp the wood. But there are several options. First, consider refinishing the marble using dry abrasives, such as sanding screens; these will create dust,... Read More

Q: Why did my beautiful white marble suddenly begin to turn yellow?   A: Unfortunately, this problem is not uncommon. There are a number of causes for yellowing marble—and a number of possible cures.   The most common culprit is iron, which... Read More

Fred M. Hueston, PhD Sitting in my office one morning I received a call from a very upset home builder. He told me he was building a two million-dollar home on the west coast of Florida. They had installed nearly 3500 square feet of a white statuario... Read More

  Efflorescence - Removal and Prevention   By Frederick M. Hueston www.stoneforensics.com The crystallization of soluble salts in Historic masonry causes severe deterioration of the substrate. This crystallization is called... 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

The sealer has left a hard silicone residue on the tile’s surface. To remove the excess silicone, the tile will have to be scrubbed with an abrasive cleaner. Several kitchen-type abrasive cleaners are available which will remove this film. If... Read More

This a common condition, especially if the floor is new. When the marble is installed, it is set in a mortar base that is wet; as the moisture leaves the mortar, it carries with it dissolved salts which are deposited on the surface of the stone. This... Read More

Try using a solution of stone soap and warm water. Rinse several times and wipe dry with a terry cloth towel. This should remove the film. This procedure also works well on wood and Formica surfaces. CAUTION Many metal surfaces contain a lacquered... Read More

Q. I accidentally left a bottle of vinegar/water on my polished marble vanity and it caused some etching. Can I fix this? A. Essentially an etch is damage to the stone. If it isn't too severe (it's not so rough you can feel it with your... Read More

Vinegar and water make a great cleaner for ceramic tile, but should never be used to clean marble. Do not use vinegar on marble! Vinegar contains acidic acid, which will dull the finish. If you should happen to use vinegar the marble should be... Read More