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Q. We are building a new house in South Louisiana. We have a 4-inch concrete slab on the ground. Because we are in a flood zone, we had to build up. So, we have concrete piers and wooden beams that our house actually sits on. We then have 1 1/4"... Read More

Q. What is the best way to remove ivy and other vines from brick, stone, and masonry walls?  A. Ivy growing on the side of a home or building creates a feeling of warmth, reassurance, and interest, however the tendrils or aerial roots can grow into... Read More

Q. I accidentally wiped my limestone fire surround on one side with a cloth that had WD-40. It has discolored  the limestone that is stone in color. The discolored area is a few shades darker. How can I bring it back to the lighter color it should... Read More

Q. I accidentally left a candle on my wood burner, lit a fire and the wax melted. The candle was on a saucer which collected most of the wax. When I moved the candle and placed it on the hearth, I spilt the wax. After it had cooled down I lifted the... Read More

Q. I am making some improvements to an 87 yr old building with limestone floors. There are some copper stains on the limestone, caused by some moisture and the copper lights bleeding. Please tell me how to clean up this stain. A. Use a soft brush... Read More

Q. I randomly stumbled on your website. I have a quick question if you’re willing to share advice. I have marble (or it’s quartzite) in my bathroom, and somehow it’s rusting where the faucet is. The stone is changing a rust color. I... Read More

Q. I believe I have spill marks of vinegar and also some cleaning solution that stained my marble and limestone floors. I need help in which poultice to use.   A. Marble and limestone are calcium-based stones, which means they are sensitive to acids... Read More

Q. We have a new home with black limestone in the master bathroom shower. I am looking to make a DIY cleaner for routine cleaning of the stone. Do you have a recipe or suggestion of products to use to make the cleaner? A. DIY cleaners can be... Read More

Q. I am purchasing natural stone countertops, and I am concerned that I might not recognize the difference between naturally-occurring imperfections and unnatural damage. Can you provide some resources to help me make a good decision on my purchase?... Read More

Q. My pickling vinegar bottle (7 percent acidic) leaked on my flagstone (limestone?) floor. I made a paste of baking soda and applied after washing the floor with Marbalex stone floor cleaner. I let the paste sit for the afternoon to no avail. I... Read More